Welcome Preppers and Survivalists,
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photograph by
Eric Draper
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I do a lot of reading, for fun and knowledge. For books, I borrow them from the local library. For news, I read the internet.
Needless to say, ... This is the archive for the books that I have read.
1 December, 2015
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| Dies the Fire,
book cover
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Welcome
This is going to be an 'On again; Off again' series about some of the books that I am currently reading or that I have recently read.
'Cause, ... I don't read so fast while also writing for the blog and starting another book.
Dies the Fire by S.M. Sterling
This book is a classic in so-called survival fiction. It chronicles the aftereffects of an unknown worldwide loss of electrical power and ... gunpowder! In other worlds back to the middle ages in less than a minute.
Needless to say, Wikipedia has a page that saves me from having to write about all of the characters and other stuff from the book that I suggest you read.
Or, .. Not, because you and your family don't like spoilers.
Lessons
The first lesson that I would like for you to take away from the book is that 'The World can change in an instant!' and you better get use to it, fast!
The second lesson, banding together is better than going it alone.
Third, I have said many times, 'You and your family aren't storing enough food.'
Needless to say, there are many other lessons that you will need.
To Read or Not to Read
Yes, Yes, and Yes read this book. S.M. Sterling did a great job of providing an entertaining story to highlight some of the 'big' and 'small' ideas of surviving an event.
To Recommend
Dies the Fire is a good book to have your partner and friends to read, so y'all can start the discussion about preparing for long-term events.
Plus, it's a good book to recommend for your older children to read 'for the adventure,' of course.
Needless to Say
Like any other fictional book, you need to remember that the characters will survive events that just might kill you and your family.
So, ... I suggest you borrow Dies the Fire from your local library.
Link:
Wikipedia - Dies the Fire
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dies_the_Fire
8 December, 2015
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book cover
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The Protector's War by S.M. Sterling
This is the second book in the series of so-called survival fiction that chronicles the aftereffects of an unknown worldwide loss of electrical power and ... gunpowder! In other words, the disaster continues!
Needless to say, Wikipedia has a page that saves me from having to write about all of the characters and other stuff from the book that I suggest you read.
Lessons
One of the 'big' lessons from this book is 'Success breeds Success!'
Second, with a massive loss of life; returning to a middle age existence, in a matter of minutes; the norms, values, and behaviors of the survivors would change; sometimes for the better, sometimes not.
Third, you and your family are going to have to pick a side. You won't be able to go it alone, so you will have to ally yourself with a stronger group. Hopefully, one that holds the same values.
Fourth, ...
To Read or Not to Read
Yes because it continues the series. Plus, it gives a glimpse into some of the possible changes that 'society' would make after eight years of dealing with a catastrophic event.
To Recommend
Definitely, especially for older but younger readers that you're trying to encourage to get involved in prepping.
However, ...
The actually war doesn't take place until the third volume.
Needless to Say
Like any other fictional book, you need to remember that the characters will survive events that just might kill you and your family.
So, ... I suggest you borrow The Protector's War from your local library, and enjoy the continuing saga of surviving a worldwide CME or EMP event, without firearms.
Link:
Wikipedia - The Protector's War
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Protector's_War
22 December, 2015
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| Sarajevo: Survival
Guide,
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Ha, Ha, Ha
Y'all though I was going to write about the third book (A Meeting at Corvallis) in the Emberverse series.
Nope, I'll be telling you about ...
Sarajevo: Survival Guide by and Bora Cosic
This pamphlet is a modern classic in survival literature. Written at the time or just after the siege of Sarajevo, it provides many 'nuggets' of information about living during an armed siege in a large modern city.
Needless to say, Wikipedia has a page about the siege that saves me from having to recount, probably incorrectly, the background, deprivation, atrocities, and aftermath of the event.
Lessons
For folks that have been prepping for a long time, the booklet is a rehash of things you already know "If" you have been studying about modern survival, such as ..
* Finding Water in the city
* Heating your Home without electricity
* Preserving Food without ... anything
* Staying Alive as a hostile army shells your city or snipers shoot at you
For newish preppers and folks that have concentrated on natural events or other relatively benign events, the Sarajevo: Survival Guide will provide information about the chaos during an event in a big city ... with people shooting at you and your family.
It will give you a certain perspective on what it is like to try and leave the city of your birth, in a United Nations refugee convoy; watching your money lose value, as your home is destroyed; and many other lessons, not covered in most survival manual.
To Read or Not to Read
Yes, 'cause most folks haven't done research on what it would be like to be a noncombatant during a shooting war, powerless to stop your family's suffering. Plus, it's a very quick read. I think the pamphlet was less than 20 pages.
And, ...
No, 'cause most of the text is on the internet, you don't miss too much. Plus, the booklet is short on specifics. It's more little 'nuggets' of information instead of specific 'how-to' information.
To Recommend
This is an 'Adult' book. There is no 'adventure' just suffering in this pamphlet, so it is only recommended, by me, for folks that are serious about prepping.
That means, your spouse (that thinks you're crazy for prepping) never sees this book much less reads it.
No, it's not The Road, but the booklet is more of a factual, technical manual, ... kind'a.
Needless to Say
I borrowed the booklet from another library, using the inter-library loan program.
And, ...
If you plan to read Sarajevo: Survival Guide make sure to have pen and paper handy to take notes.
And, ...
Remember, "History doesn't repeat itself, but it does rhyme." Mark Twain
Link:
Wikipedia - Siege of Sarajevo
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siege_of_Sarajevo
Survivalist Boards.com - Sarajevo Survival Guide
http://www.survivalistboards.com/showthread.php?t=116514
Survival Monkey.com - Sarajevo Survival Guide
https://www.survivalmonkey.com/threads/sarajevo-survival-guide.19312/
Friends and Partners - Sarajevo Survival Guide
http://friends-partners.org/bosnia/surintro.html
29 December, 2015
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| A Meeting at Corvallis
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A Meeting at Corvallis by S.M. Sterling
This is the third book in the series of survival fiction that chronicles the aftereffects of an unknown worldwide loss of electrical power and ... gunpowder! In other words, the disaster continues!
Needless to say, Wikipedia has a page that saves me from having to write about all of the characters and other stuff from the book that I suggest you read.
Lessons
First, you and your neighbors are going to need to organize after an event. Yep, you and your family are going to need to learn to effectively defend yourselves, so you better start now.
Next, you're going to need military leadership, strong, sensible, educated military leadership, like the Bearkillers or Clan Mackenzie.
Third, you and your family probably aren't going to be 'in charge,' so you will need to be a 'good' follower.
Next, you're going to need multiple skill sets, and some of these skill sets; you won't be able to learn in this lifetime. So, you need to be looking for like-minded others, helpful resources to supplement your skill sets, acquiring necessary tools and supplies, and practicing those skills.
Lastly, logistics, logistic, and logistics
Ooops, that last one isn't exactly from the book, but you already know the importance of 'Beans, Bullets, and Band-aids,' in depth.
To Read or Not to Read
Yes, Yes, and Yes. A Meeting at Corvallis is a rip roaring adventure. If you like military fiction, you will like it so will your older children and your partner, too.
Because, ... (I hate to say it; it sounds soooo Politically Correct.) There are 'strong' characters of both sexes, older and younger
Another good point for reading the book, it's a good, general introduction into warfare that will introduce basic concepts such as massing forces, integration of forces, combined arms, and the importance of logistics for warfare.
To Recommend
Definitely, especially for older but younger readers that you're trying to encourage to get involved in prepping.
Needless to Say
Like any other fictional book, you need to remember that the characters will survive events that just might kill you and your family.
So, ... I suggest you borrow A Meeting at Corvallis from your local library, and enjoy the continuing saga of surviving a worldwide CME or EMP event, without firearms.
P.S.
I probably won't read any more of the series. I'm a little 'burnt out' with the series' concept and plot devices. We'll see.
Link:
Wikipedia - A Meeting at Corvallis
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Meeting_at_Corvallis
5 January, 2016
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| Gulag: A History
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Gulag: A History by Anne Applebaum
The book is a history of the vast system of prisons used by the soviets to imprison criminals and political prisoners. It covers the beginning of that system (during the czarist period). Its adaption by Lenin, and its expansion by Stalin. Finally, Gulag: A History also looks at the dismantling of the system and its aftermath.
Lessons
First, as a people, we can easily justify doing terrible things to other people.
Second, organize either along nationality, religious beliefs, educational level, political views, or what ever but organize so others can watch your back (as you watch their backs), help each other during tough times, or help each other mentally and physically, if you find yourself in this situation.
Third, resist or leave.
Yes, resisting might lead to your death and the death of your immediate family, friends, distant relatives, acquaintances, childhood friends, and ... the list is endless
But, ... The more citizens that resist, the less likely something like this will happen, in these United States.
If you're unwilling to resist then leave, quickly at the first sign of trouble, because you're not going to get a second chance.
Fourth, whether they're socialist or communist, they're coming for you, especially if you disagree with them.
To Read or Not to Read
I can't easily answer that question for Gulag: A History. It's a history book about one of the most brutal and oppressive periods of the soviet system and how the people in the gulag system survived and died.
It will help you to understand some of the survival skills that you would need in a similar situation such as lying, bribing, selling your body to the guards, selling out your friends, making new friends, fighting other inmates, making adjustments to the situation, and ... avoiding completing suicide.
To Recommend
I wouldn't recommend Gulag: A History to a teenager, unless they were really into history. The same would go for some adults because it's a ... history book, a brutal history.
But, ...
I would recommend to anyone that is looking for a basic understanding about some of the possible challenges being imprisoned by a repressive government.
Needless to Say
Gulag: A History is a history. It has a lot to teach us about the excesses of a government that could possibly happen here, under both political parties.
So, ... Borrow the book from your local library.
P.S.
As a side note: It seems Chicago
2 comments:
- That's a pity that you got to your conclusions based on a FICTION book...
Dear Александр Нагорный and Other Readers,
Just to make sure.
According to the Hoover Library (Hoover, Alabama that is), ... “Fiction” refers to literature created from the imagination. Mysteries, science fiction, romance, fantasy, chick lit, crime thrillers are all fiction genres." while ... “Nonfiction” refers to literature based in fact.
So, ...
"Gulag: A History" is a non-fiction book. It is based on the many facts that the soviets, under Vladimir Lenin (1922) to around Mikhail Gorbachev (1991), imprisoned millions of its citizens for criminal and political crimes. (If you want to know which crimes, you need to read the book.) These so-called prisoners were underfed and overworked. Some were starved, beaten to death, and executed by their guards. They were provided inadequate clothing, inadequate shelter, inadequate tools, and inadequate materials for survival.
So, ...
As we (you and your family) get prepared, you need to make sure that y'all are learning from history, ... not fantasy.
Sincerely, Someone You Know
P.S.
Александр Нагорный and Other Readers, I mean to bust your bubbles.
So, ...
Like many others, these United States, Germany, Great Britain, South Africa, and many other nations, including the Soviet Union have imprisoned and killed many of their citizens for their so-called 'causes' throughout history. For us, as preppers and survivalists, to deny this history is to doom our families to possible imprisonment, torture, and death because we refuse to acknowledge and learn from these events that this national history can and will be repeated during some events. SYK
Link:
Hoover Library - What is the difference between "fiction" and "nonfiction"?
http://www.hooverlibrary.org/faq/fiction_vs_nonfiction
12 January, 2016
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| A Random Walk Down Wall Street
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A Random Walk Down Wall Street: A Time-Tested Strategy for Successful Investing by Burton G. Malkiel
This book is one of the classic investing books for the other 99%. It lays out the one method for you and your family to successfully invest, in good times and bad.
Lessons
There are too many lessons to list from the book, but ...
One of the first lessons is debunking the 'myths' of technical and fundamental analysis.
Two, investing isn't hard; you just need to remember a few things.
The third lesson is ... Like I said, it's a must read if you're saving for retirement, planning to retire, or investing in the stock market, and planning to be financially successful
The fourth lesson, ... Read the book!
To Read or Not to Read
Yes, Yes, and Yes. I wish I had read this book and followed Mr. Malkiel advice when I started working these many years ago.
To Recommend
Yes, yes, and yes. You need to recommend this book to anyone and everyone that is going to retire. That includes your teenage children, your older children, and anyone else that you care about.
Needless to Say
If you don't want to read the whole book, you need to read "Part Four: A Practical Guide for Random Walkers and Other Investors," Chapters 12, 13, 14, and 15 in the book.
Lastly, this book isn't a reference that you will need, so borrow it from the local library.
Link:
Wikipedia - A Random Walk Down Wall Street
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Random_Walk_Down_Wall_Street
Just So You Know
I spent fifteen minutes, late last night, explaining to a friend the concepts in this book. It's that easy.
19 January, 2016
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| Decline and Fall:
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Decline and Fall: The End of Empire and the Future of Democracy in 21st Century America by John Michael Greer
A short, well written book that uses several historical examples to explore the effects of these United States losing its empire.
Lessons
I would say, the first lesson from Decline and Fall: ... is these problems aren't going to go away. I believe; they are fundamental problems facing our country.
The second lesson. There are solutions to these problems facing the world, just not these United States.
To Read or Not to Read
This is one of those Yes or No books. Not because of its subject matter, how the writer writes, or any other editorial matter, but because of your intentions about prepping.
If you are looking to identify potential worldwide and long-term problems facing you and your family, you need to read this book.
If you're only interested in researching short or medium events and their effects, then no.
To Recommend
Teenagers, nope. Not that kind'a book. Your partner?
Maybe, if they are interested in researching, like I said, worldwide and long-term problems facing your family. The same goes for friends.
Needless to Say
There are reasonable critics about Decline and Fall: ... from various sources. These sources properly point out that Mr. Greer doesn't prove any data supporting his suppositions.
I agree but how does an author collect data about the future?
Another critic, I believe, is Mr. Greer's pessimism. Some people (both liberal and conservative) believe 'science' will save us.
I agree, but what happens if science fails these United States?
Lastly, ... I had to use the library's interlibrary loan program to read Decline and Fall: The End of Empire and the Future of Democracy in 21st Century America because I don't buy books when I can read them for free.
O.K. I pay taxes for the library, but you get my point.
26 January, 2016
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| People's Institution from the Begunbari Slum
photograph by
bri vos
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Tracking You
Some folks are worried about the 'Government' tracking your reading history from the local library. They think, correctly, that this information could be used against their families, correct again.
Well, ...
For most preppers, when the government starts to get concerned about our library reading habits, you and your family might want to be getting your affairs in order, to leave the country, just like Russian business owners in 1917, German Jews in 1932, and a South Vietnamese military family in 1974 ; - )
Entertainment
Up until now, I have suggested that you and your family borrow books from your local library or the inter-library loan program for most of your reading.
So, ...
Here's where I contradict myself, kind'a.
As you get prepared, you and your family are going to need entertainment, and books are some of the cheapest and most energy efficient method of providing this entertainment, just like playing cards and board games.
To find inexpensive books for entertainment, you can ask about the local library's annual fund raiser. In our area, every year, the local library sells off donated and outdated books for a small fee. The small fee goes to buying new books.
Another source, for cheap books, is local swap meets or garage sales. Like the annual library book sale, I can find 'entertainment' books, for little to no money. One that I like are the old Reader Digests annual collection of stories.
Needless to say, if you like romance novels, buy romance novels. If you like detective stories, buy detective stories.
With That Said
Here are a few books that I have read, kind'a recently
Starship Troopers
Probably the first military science fiction novel. It was recommended reading by these United States Marine Corps a few years ago until, I believe, it got a reputation as a 'fascist' novel.
Wikipedia - Starship Troppers
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starship_Troopers
Ender's Game
This book is currently on these United States Marine Corps reading list.
Wikipedia - Ender's Game
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ender's_Game
Old Man's War
A fun, military science fiction book for older teens and adults.
Wikipedia - Old Man's War
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Man's_War
The Ghost Brigades
Another story within the Old Man's War series
Wikipedia - The Ghost Brigades
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Ghost_Brigades
Zoe's Tale
Another story within the Old Man's War series, with a female lead character.
Wikipedia - Zoe's Tale
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zoe's_Tale
Sherlock Holmes: ...
A selection of short stories about the world's greatest consulting detective.
Good Reads - Sherlock Holmes Through Time and Space
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/950303.Sherlock_Holmes_Through_Time_and_Space
A Tale of Two Cities
A classic! Written in 1859, it highlights the horror's of the French Revolution. A possible future for these United States.
Good Reads - A Tale of Two Cities
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1953.A_Tale_of_Two_Cities
Atlas Shrugged
At over 1000 pages, it's a hard read for some people.
But, ...
If you would like to know one possible future for these United States, you need to read it.
Wikipedia - Atlas Shrugged
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlas_Shrugged
Time Travelers Never Die
Another fun science fiction book that I liked.
Wikipedia - Time Travelers Never Die
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Time_Travelers_Never_Die
Needless to say, ...
I borrowed these books, for free, from the local library and so should you.
If, ... You're interested.
Oooh, ...
In a few weeks or months, I cover some of the survivalist books that I have recently read.
2 February, 2016
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| Fierce Patriot
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Fierce Patriot: The Tangled Lives of William Tecumseh Sherman by Robert L. O’Connell
This book is a biography of William Tecumseh Sherman; Butcher of Atlanta, Savannah, and Columbia; War Criminal, and ... Savior of these United States.
Lessons
If you are thinking about defending your family during a disaster, this biography would be a good 'starter' on learning about armed conflict. It has a variety of lessons for you and your family.
The first lessons, that I would like to mention, is military wisdom is gained through observation, thought, practice, and experience
Second, if you're losing, cut your losses and get out of there.
The third lesson, logistics, logistics, and more logistics
Fourth, You will be surprised
To Read or Not to Read
Yes, it's like Starship Troopers, one of those books that junior leaders should read to get an understanding of leading men, combat, and the nature of warfare.
To Recommend
Maybe? The book has an occasional 'big' word in it. These words slowed me down once or twice, but a thoughtful older teen (with a dictionary) would be able to handle it
Needless to Say
This book isn't a reference that you will need, so borrow it from the local library or find it through the interlibrary loan program.
9 February, 2016
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Boston's Gun Bible by Boston T. Party is about 850 pages of information about firearms. The book was originally written in 2000 and updated in 2002.
Lessons
The first lessons, the book covers are the 'basics,' such as terminology, safety, and other .. basics that can be found on the internet.
Second, you will learn about the multitude of 'Battle Rifles' available for you and your family, except the ones that have come out after the book was published, like the Rock River Arms' LAR-8, DPMS' AT-4, SIG's 716, and others.
The third lesson, like I warned you, you have to watch those opinions.
To Read or Not to Read
Maybe, ... Because
The book is slightly outdated on the politics of our country, so you will have to do other research to insure you're 'legal.'
Another downside, about the book, is its brief overview of various other firearms (handguns, shotguns, and ...)
The last 'but' is the book is bias towards rifles chambered in the 7.62 NATO cartridge. A cartridge that isn't used by any large scale front line troops, making potential resupply difficult, spare parts expensive, magazines expensive or almost unavailable, and other problems.
To Recommend
I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone 'new' to firearms because the book is bias towards the 'Battle Rifles' in 7.62 NATO. A teenager or other new shooter might take a negative view to the other rifles more suitable to you and your family such as the SKS rifle, AR-15 rifle, or the ...
Lastly, in my opinion, the first firearm a family should purchase is a handgun (preferably a .357 magnum revolver) for personal defense with the needed accessories such as a stiff belt, comfortable holster, and cleaning kit.
Needless to Say
This book isn't a reference that you will need, so borrow it from the local library or find it through the interlibrary loan program.
And, ...
If you can't find the book, don't worry, you haven't missed much because all of the information can be found on the internet.
Note:
I had to pay $5.00 to read this book from the interlibrary loan program : - (
So, ... You didn't have too ; - )
23 February, 2016
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source
United States Government Computer
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I Apologize
Folks, I have nothing for you. I have been cleaning basements (two), installing smoke detectors (five), traveling (1400 miles), and other stuff with no reading : - (
However, ...
Link:
WeaponsMan - Weaponsman Expert Book Reviews No. 1
http://weaponsman.com/?p=29299 (No Longer Available)
However, ...
Here is an alternative link, thanks to Mr. William St. Clair.
Link:
Bill St. Clair - Weaponsman Expert Book Reviews No. 1
https://billstclair.com/weaponsman.com/index.html%3Fp=29299
1 March, 2016
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book cover by
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Lights Out by Ted Koppel is a non-fiction book about the dangers of a cyber-attack on these United States power grid and other infrastructure. Mr. Koppel sounds the alarm about the potential attacks, their possible targets, and some of the effects of these attacks.
Of course, these types of attacks are not limited to these United States ; - )
Lessons
The first lesson is one that you will find here, get prepared for a long-term event. You know, an event that will last years.
The second lesson is one we already know; like Pearl Harbor, we're not ready, as a country.
The third lesson, we (you and your family) will pay either way. You will either pay with treasure (getting prepared) or pay with blood (failing to get prepared). The choice is up to you.
The last lesson, that I will discuss, is you are going to have to get politically involved 'If' you care about your country.
To Read or Not to Read
A definite yes.
Unless, ... you already know about the possible wide spread devastation; cyber-attacks could cause your country.
To Recommend
Yes, for adults. No, for teens.
Needless to Say
You know the deal by now, borrow the book from the library.
Also, ... This book isn't an instructional manual like Prepper: Surviving the Tough Times Ahead.
8 March, 2016
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The Great Forgetting: A Novel by James Renner is a rip roaring ride into the most popular conspiracy theories that will have you guessing to the very end of the story.
Lessons
There aren't any, except one.
During the apocalypse, you're going to need something to take your mind off the daily grind.
To Read or Not to Read
If you like conspiracy theories, you will probably like this novel.
To Recommend
It's a fun book, suitable for teens and other adults.
In other words, a good summer read.
Needless to Say
This book is a work of fiction, so it isn't a reference that you need.
So, .... I suggest you borrow from the library or the interlibrary loan program.
15 March, 2016
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Ghost Fleet: A Novel of the Next World War by P.W. Singer and August Cole is a technothriller that has recently received attention. It tells the story of China's efforts to force these United States to concede its leadership in the Pacific and the world.
Lessons
I would say the first lesson is other countries see these United States as an enemy to their national goals. Rightly so, but this means our country must stay strong, militarily and philosophically.
Second, as a nation, we must be careful in the weapons that we procure for our military. Sometimes, Good Enough is Best.
Third, men and women will die defending our country. We owe it to them to train them to fight, survive, and win.
The last lesson, that I would like to point out, isn't in the book. It is happening today. It is ...
Our country and our allies are unprepared to win a war with a power such as Russia, China, maybe even Iran. We need to fix that.
Remember, ... There is no second place winner in a war. It is victor or vanquished.
To Read or Not to Read
Oh yeah. Ghost Fleet is fast paced, suspenseful, and ... We win, kind'a.
To Recommend
Nope, for younger readers because of the nature of the material. Yeap, some graphic violence.
For the teens, it's a maybe because of the sex and violence.
But, ... For adults, oh yeah. They'll like it.
Needless to Say
It's fiction, so borrow it from the local library.
P.S.
I stayed up until 1:30 am reading the book.
By the Way?
How do you prepare for a war, in the Pacific when you live on the East Coast?
14 June, 2016
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Adios, America by Ann Coulter is a wake up call for citizens of these United States to overhaul the current immigration system and stop illegal immigration.
Lessons
For me, the first lesson from the book is our immigration system is worst then we can imagine.
The second lesson is that our elected officials have no desire to change the fundamentally flawed system.
The third lesson is that we must change the system before we as a nation are destroyed from within.
To Read or Not to Read
Oh yes! You and your partner need to read this book because immigration is a vital issue that must be confronted by liberal and conservatives, of this and other countries.
To Recommend
Heck, yes! You need to tell you friends and family about this book and urge them to read it before November, 2020.
Needless to Say
This isn't a book that you need to buy for your preps, but it is a book that you need to read for your preps.
In other woods, borrow Adios, America! from the local library
Injustice
This so-called review does Ms. Coulter a grave injustice. It fails to convey the urgency that faces this nation and the other nations of this world that Mr. Coulter elegantly expressed in Adios, America!.
12 July, 2016
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Colossus: The Price of America's Empire by Niall Ferguson is a book asking serious questions about these United States and our abilities to interact in the world. The book provides historical examples to answer some of the questions raised in the book, by Mr. Ferguson.
Lessons
There are many lessons in this book, some history, a little finance, and a lots and lots of good insights about our country, such as this warning about the on-going financial difficulties.
"When trying to make financial matters more vivid, writers often invoke imagery from the natural world. Bubbles burst. Bears chase bulls. So vast is America's looming financial crisis that it is tempting to talk about the fiscal equivalent of the perfect storm-or the perfect earthquake, if you prefer; perhaps the perfect forest fire. In this case, however, nature offers more than mere literary color. For the dynamics of fiscal overreach really do have much in common with the dynamics of natural disasters. We can know only that, like a really big earthquake, a big fiscal crisis will happen. What we cannot know is when it will strike, or the size of the shock. Adopting the language used by scientists who study the unpredictable patterns of natural disasters, we are condemned to wait and see when our fiscal system will enter "self-sustaining critically"-in other words, when it will go critical, passing with dramatic speed and violence from one equilibrium to another."
To Read or Not to Read
Yes, with that said.
At first, I thought the book would be a little dated, being published in 2005, but it isn't. Colossus: The Price of America's Empire is still a thoughtful look at these United States as an empire and, in my opinion, the need for this country to be an empire.
To Recommend
Yes, No, and Maybe depending on your friends.
Needless to Say
This isn't a book that you need to buy for your preps, but it is a book that you need to read for your preps.
In other woods, borrow Colossus: The Price of America's Empire from the local library
24 June 2018
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| A Republic, Not an Empire: Reclaiming America's Destiny book cover by Regnery Publishing |
A Republic, Not an Empire: Reclaiming America's Destiny is a book highlighting a question that we, as a country, must answer: Are we to intervene in other countries' affairs, when we have nothing to gain?
Lessons
First lesson, people have been misleading you.
Second, our nation has a problem that must be fixed or we may be destroyed, as a country.
To Read or Not to Read
If you don't know a lot of these United States history, you and your partner need to read this book. If you think you know a lot of these United States history, you need to read this book because it will give you a different perspective of our country's history. Lastly, the book is one of those books that everyone needs to read, so you can know the arguments for a decades old question.
With that said, ...
If you are indifferent to the future of our country, go read something else.
To Recommend
Yes, Yes, Yes because we, as a Nation, need to have a conversation about our commitments to the World and the sooner it starts, the sooner we can fix our country problems.
Needless to Say
This isn't a book that you need to buy for your preps, but it is a book that you need to read for your preps.
In other woods, borrow A Republic, Not an Empire: ... from the local library
15 February 2019
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| The Unquiet Ghost: Russia Rememebers Stalin book cover by Mariner Books |
The Unquiet Ghost: Russia Remembers Stalin is a quick read of one writers efforts to understand how a people deal with the history of their government killing over 10,000,000 of its citizens.
Lessons
10,000,000 people or more will die. Their killers may or may not be remorseful. The accomplice may or may not be ashamed, and the victims may or may not seek revenge.
But, ....
All of them will remember, even as we repeat their mistakes.
To Read or Not to Read
I wouldn't recommend The Unquiet Ghost: ... to a teenager, unless they were into history. Plus, some of the recollections could be upsetting to a younger or more sensitive reader.
For an adult, definitely because we are facing a similar situation with calls for a 'Strongman' or strong central government from so-called liberals and some conservatives.
To Recommend
Yes, No, Maybe.
If your family needs a short easy to read book about the dangers of covering up a country's past, then yes.
If your friends don't want to learn about the dangers of a 'Strongman,' then no.
Needless to Say
The Unquiet Ghost: ... is a history. It has a lot to teach us about the excesses of a government that could possibly happen here, under both political parties.
So, ... Borrow the book from your local library.
9 April 2019
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| Station Eleven book cover by Vintage Books |
Station Eleven is a work of fiction, dealing with a devastating world-wide pandemic that kills over 75% of the world's population.
Lessons
The first lesson, you and your partner may not survive a deadly pandemic.
Second, you and everyone else may not clearly see the coming devastation, so you, along with everyone else, will have to struggle to survive the next day, the next week, the next month, the next year, the near decade.
Third, banding together makes survival harder, but it also makes it easier.
Lastly, different groups will have different ways of surviving.
Ooooh, one last point. Crazy people will still be crazy.
To Read or Not to Read
If you are looking for a hardcore 'This Is How to Survive a Pandemic' book, read something else.
But, ...
If you're looking for a book that will give you an opportunity to discuss preparedness with your family, you, your partner, and your family should read Station Eleven.
Needless to say, ...
Station Eleven is, to me, considered an young adult dystopia work of fiction, so it's readable by the older teenagers.
To Recommend
A definite and resounding 'Yes.'
Needless to Say
Station Eleven is a work of fiction, so it isn't a reference that you need.
So, .... I suggest you borrow the book from the library or use the interlibrary loan program.
Link:
Wikipedia - Station Eleven
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Station_Eleven
20 September 2019
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| Theodore Rex book cover by Modern Library |
Theodore Rex is a biography about the presidency of Theodore Roosevelt, from September 14th, 1901 to March 4th, 1909. It is the second book in a series written by Edmund Morris about Teddy Roosevelt.
Lessons
There are many lessons in this book. Some cover how to be the rugged individual, while others illustrate the thinking of politicans. There are lessons about our country, and how we came to be these United States.
To Read or Not to Read
If you are looking to understand the character of these United States and some of the people that shaped our country, this is a book for you. If you are interested in Theodore Roosevelt, this is a book to read.
To Recommend
Yes, if you think the person is looking to understand our country's past. Maybe, if you think the person is waking up to the dangers that face our country. No, if you think the person is oblivious.
Needless to Say
Theodore Rex is a biography of a pivot person in out nation's history.
So, ... Borrow the book from your local library.
8 November 2019
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| Total War: 2006 book cover by Hodder and Stoughton |
Total War: 2006 describes a devastating conflict against the State of Israel which leads to a limited worldwide nuclear conflict.
Lessons
First, there are several good examples of people getting into their adversaries' OODA loop.
Next, ...
To Read or Not to Read
Yes, definitely, read the book.
To Recommend
If your friends are into military fiction, you should recommend Total War: 2006. If they aren't, don't bother.
For the teens, maybe.
Needless to Say
Total War: 2006 ... is a work of fiction, so it isn't a reference that you need.
So, .... I suggest you borrow from the library or the interlibrary loan program.
24 January 2020
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| House to House: A Soldier's Memoir book cover by Free Press |
House to House: A Soldier's Memoir is one Soldiers experiences during these United States longest undeclared war. With the assistance of John R. Bruning, David Bellavia recounts his experiences during Fallujah, in November 2nd - 17th, 2004.
Lessons
The first lesson, I would like you to take away from this book, is ... It's not about defending the country; it's about being their for your men and your buddies.
Yes, Soldiers join to defend the nation, but as they serve, it becomes to fight and survive as a team.
Second, this book will give you some insight into the efforts our sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, aunts and uncles, and grandmothers and grandfathers that they faced during the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
To Read or Not to Read
Soldiers have different experiences, during War and Peace. Some like David Bellavia will experience intense periods of combat, where life and death is a moment away, while other Soldiers will be safely in an air conditioned office, out of harm's way except for accidents.
If you would like to know about the intense action seen by these Soldiers, read the book.
To Recommend
Yes, but it might not be appropriate for some people.
Needless to Say
This isn't a book that you need to buy for your preps, but it is a book that you need to read for your preps.
So, ... Borrow House to House: A Soldier's Memoir from your local library.
6 March 2020
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| Blowback The Cost and Consequences of American Empire book cover by Holt Paperback |
Blowback: The Cost and Consequences of American Empire is a controversial book that covers some of the perceived international failings of our country.
Lessons
People hate us, some of them are citizens of this country.
To Read or Not to Read
If you would like to know how some people, including other citizens, think about our country, you need to read this book.
If you don't care then read something else.
To Recommend
Yes, yes, yes because you and your partner need to understand the message people are putting out there to subvert our Nation.
Needless to Say
Blowback isn't a book to buy and have in your library.
So, ... Borrow the book from your local library.
10 April 2020
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| Gates of Fire: An Epic Novel of the Battle of Thermopylae book cover by Bantam Books |
Gates of Fire: An Epic Novel of the Battle of Thermopylae is a work of fiction, based on research with noted scholars and historians of the time period
Lessons
To Read or Not to Read
If you like military fiction, you will enjoy the book. If you don't, you will need to read something else.
To Recommend
Teenagers will enjoy the book, so please recommend Gates of Fire.
Needless to Say
Gates of Fire: An Epic Novel of the Battle of Thermopylae is a work of fiction, so it isn't a reference that you need.
So, .... I suggest you borrow from the library or the interlibrary loan program.
17 May 2020
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|
book cover by
William Morrow |
SAS Survival Handbook is one of the classic and 'go to' books on surviving in the country and the city. To say it is a must read is an understatement.
Lessons
There are so many lessons in this book that I'm not even going to attempt to tell you any of them.
To Read or Not to Read
Yes, yes, yes.
To Recommend
Yes, yes, yes.
You should even give them as gifts, this Christ's Mass.
Needless to Say
You need to have two copies of this book. One that you read and practice with and the other for when the first one wears out and you're waiting for the replacement to arrive.
Survival/Prepper
About four years ago, I promised to share some of the survival books that I have read.
As a general rule, I suggest you borrow these books from the library or through the interlibrary loan program then take notes as you read them.
However, ...
Every once in a while, a book will be good enough to buy and give to others to help them prepare for the tough times ahead.
The following books are some of those books.
But, Remember!!!
These books are gifts, not be be kept as references.
Survival Mom:
How to Prepare Your Family for Everyday Disasters
and Worst-Case Scenarios
A good solid book on prepping for the family. It is easy to read and use.
In the book, Lisa Bedford covers the preps you and your family need to make to survive a wide range of events. She even covers some of the areas that other people overlook in their survival books.
 |
| Survival Mom: How to Prepare Your Family for Everyday Disasters and Worst-Case Scenarios by
Lisa Bedford
|
The official United States government manual to help the citizens of this nation learn
how to protect themselves and their families against all types of
hazards.
It can be used as a reference source or as a step-by-step
manual.
The focus of the content is on how to develop, practice, and
maintain emergency plans that reflect what must be done before, during,
and after a disaster to protect people and their property. Also included
is information on how to assemble a disaster supplies kit that contains
the food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity for
individuals and their families to survive following a disaster in the
event they must rely on their own resources.
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