The Adventurer’s Guide to the Outdoors reminds me of one of the Boy Scout Guides. It discusses how to navigate using a map and compass, how to erect a tent and set up a campsite and so on. The advice is quite useful and demonstrates quite clearly the need to be prepared and understand the power and danger of nature. You can appreciate the majesty and wonder that is inherent in nature but don’t underestimate its dangers. That wonderful rock formation could hold dangerous creatures or something.

As I mentioned, the main portion of the guide is dedicated to being prepared for different situations in the outdoors. When you attempt to go off the grid, say, or if you want to camp outside, you should be ready for many things. Weather can be dangerous, ticks and mosquitoes can bother you incessantly, even the warming rays of the sun can become an annoyance.

If you plan to go out for a while or to a place that is far away from civilization, the major problem is what to do if you become lost or hurt while in the wilderness. Once again, it’s important to be prepared for any contingency. Tell people where you are going, or try to keep in touch with a transmitter radio or something. Bring a first aid kit and know how to use it. Pack good hiking boots.

As I said, the book is quite practical, but it isn’t a good size for a pocket. When it comes right down to it, I would say that this book is really not essential, but it does contain useful advice if you remember to bring it. However, if you are stranded on a deserted island or something ridiculous like that, I don’t really know if this book would ready you for that, but then again, any preparation is better than none.

The most essential thing to take away from this is that you should respect nature. This book is packed with useful info but isn’t that portable. You can carry it in a pack or bag, but you might not have time to consult it if you are in danger. Hopefully, with enough preparation, danger won’t stand a chance. ( )