Keller’s Outdoor Survival Guide: How to Prevail When Lost, Stranded, or Injured in the Wilderness

What a great read! The topics for each chapter well thought out, and the material is practical and accessible. The book really shines compared to others because of the author’s frequent use of personal anecdotes from searches he’s participated in, accidents he’s observed, and injuries he’s seen. There are many books that provide solid instruction on survival techniques, though many rely on graphic horror stories or rare but catastrophic events to frighten readers. Keller skips the hype and theatrics, and provides an engaging and conversational discussions based on his own experiences in search and rescue. Rather than focusing on the rare but catastrophic, he leans towards relating how normal folks start out pleasant days and how things go wrong. The easy tone draws attention to understanding and equipping rather than a bunker mentality. One reviewer complained that he tells stories rather than teaching practical survival techniques, I think most readers will find that these eye-opening stories are meant as real-life illustrations of how people get into trouble, with the vast majority of the book consisting of practical survival techniques and preparedness.

There are a number of helpful reality checks in the book that can help readers think through what they carry with them in the woods. For example, in discussing different types of fire starters, the author points out that some of the nifty products sold in stores are simply impossible to use in many cold weather survival situations when hands are lose dexterity. He point out that solar stills take a long time to produce water in any quantity, though he probably should have gone much further than this statement, given the exertion and dangerous sweat loss incurred in constructing one!

The material is accessible. Keller does not assume prior knowledge, though he repeatedly suggests readers take formal first aid training and CPR. Like many introductory books that try to cover many of the bases, each topic gets limited attention and there are places where I wish he’d gone into more depth. There are clearly places where the first aid advice should be updated (e.g.: he recommends tilting the head back when performing artificial respiration, but I didn’t catch any cautions about the effect this could have if there is a neck injury present. Similarly, the national guidelines for CPR have changed since he wrote.) Ultimately, though, there is good, solid information in the book for new campers and experienced backpackers alike.

Despite this being an encouraging book about the steps one can take to stay safe and deal with difficult situations, one of the things that struck me about the book is that the author recognizes there are situations where even your best won’t be–and can’t be–enough to preserve a life in an extreme situation. Though his discussion is very brief, it is sensitive and full of wisdom. The author displays an above-average sense of humility throughout the book, pointing mistakes he’s made and what he’s learned in the process.
Rating: 4 / 5

As an EMT who has considerable experience in Mountain Rescue and dealing with victims of hypothermia, I found this very informative. It is well written in very easy to understand with many excellent and interesting stories. It addresses not only solutions to survival situations but offers many preventative ideas. Well worth the money.
Rating: 5 / 5