

The challenges and obstacles he faced seem very doable for the average person/family. His journey to living off the grid isn't anything too hardcore or daunting.

On the other hand, if you are just wanting to entertain the idea of going off of the grid, this book is an excellent place to start. However, you will need to add much more to your library if you want to cover all of the bases or wish to gain more in-depth knowledge surrounding this subject. I believe if you are interested in moving off of the grid that this book will get your toes wet. To begin with, Collins is very thorough in the topics he discusses. Thus, he wrote about all of his learning curves during his new construction process in hopes that we don't make the same mistakes he did. He diligently searched for information applicable to his desire to move off grid and found very little useful material. The author goes into how he, like many of us, was tired of the rat race and yearned to pursue a more simplistic lifestyle.

Often, those wanting to be homesteaders or wanting to live off the grid do so without making sure it is first legal in their area. In my experience, this can not be expressed enough. The author is conscious in warning the reader of legalities and local laws. From what I gather from his book, he was writing it as he was building his first off grid home. Although his background provides him with many qualities suited for this lifestyle, he is not an off-grid veteran.

In addition to his humor, I enjoyed his Gary-isms and chapter summaries. Gary Collins has a sarcastic sense of humor that I personally can relate to. His career has taken him around the world and given him a unique perspective on the United States, in fact, the world, is affected by our food, drug, and healthcare policies.” (Collins) Food and Drug Administration as a Special Agent. Department of Health and Human Services, and the U.S. After an exciting career in military intelligence Collins worked for the U.S. He holds an AS degree in Exercise Science, a BS in Criminal Justice, and an MS in Forensic Science. “Collins' background is very unique and brings a much-needed perspective to today's fields of health, nutrition, and self-reliance. He enjoys modern day luxuries–like a flush toilet. The author of this book is not an extreme off grid living hermit. I know friends that have a few solar panels and aren't connected to city utilities they supplement with propane or gas and live “off the grid.” In addition, I have friends who do not consider anyone “off grid” unless they provide 100% of their own needs. Going Off The Grid: The How-To Book Of Simple Living and Happinessįirst of all, I should note that everyone has a different opinion on what off grid living is. Going Off The Grid: The How-To Book Of Simple Living and Happiness.
