The Hippy Survival Guide to Y2K

by Mike Oehler

Could it be that, 30 years after they formed the vanguard of the American social revolution, the "hippies" of the 1960s can offer sage advice on the looming Y2K computer bug crisis? In this authoritative handbook, "The Hippy Survival Guide to Y2K," author Mike Oehler says yes, they can. He's a '60s hippy who holds dear the philosophies that led him to a self-sufficient, back-to-the-land life in rural Idaho. In a readable and anecdotal style, supported by exhaustive research, Mike explores the possibility that on January 1, 2000, a simple programming error will cause disastrous computer crashes around the world. With a focus on strategies for surviving the disruption of social services, Mike has packed this book with information on how Get clean water if water systems fail, stay warm in January if the heat goes off, find free food at any time in the city or country, find the safest places to live, build a shelter that will take you through anything, and much more. Oehler applies his own years of experience to this highly readable handbook for Y2K survival - served up with his philosophy about the improvement of modern society. The good news behind Y2K, whether it proves to be a tragedy or merely a tempest in a teapot, is that it may cause many of us to live our lives more deliberately and independently. The Year 2000 is coming. The time to think about "what if?" is now, with this practical and thought-provoking guide.

279 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1999

Reviews

[Wayne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this, but I after reading Oehler's stunning $50 Underground House, I was disappointed. The book is largely a journal of Mike's attempts to motivate his small town's council to prepare for the IMPENDING DOOM of Y2K.

As for practical knowledge, there was very little, but what was there was golden. Mike describes how to use his PSP building method to create a hastily built, but long lasting emergency shelter that will protect a family for up to a year if necessary. He also has advice for the urban dweller on how to survive a winter in an apartment with no heat.