As someone who’s spent over a decade navigating the backcountry, writing about outdoor adventures, and advising folks on preparedness, I’m often asked for book recommendations. The question usually boils down to one thing: “What should I read to learn more about survival?” Whether you're looking for practical skills, thrilling stories, or a dose of inspiration, the world of best survival fiction books and non-fiction guides is vast. This article is your comprehensive guide to the best books on bushcraft, nonfiction books about survival, and everything in between. We’ll cover everything from gripping wilderness survival novels to essential prepping manuals, and even touch on authors like Mike Glover and Les Stroud.
Why Read Survival Books?
Beyond the entertainment value, reading about survival – whether it’s a wild survival book detailing a harrowing true story or a fiction wilderness survival book – offers tangible benefits. It expands your knowledge base, sharpens your problem-solving skills, and can even boost your confidence in emergency situations. Understanding the principles of wilderness survival, even theoretically, can be the difference between a challenging situation and a dire one. Plus, let’s be honest, these stories are often incredibly compelling!
Non-Fiction: Building a Foundation of Survival Skills
Let’s start with the practical side. These books about survival nonfiction are your go-to resources for learning essential skills. I’ve personally used many of these in my own training and guiding.
Essential Bushcraft & Wilderness Survival Guides
- Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival by Dave Canterbury: Considered a modern classic, Canterbury’s book breaks down the “5 C’s of Survivability” – Cutting tools, Combustion devices, Cover, Containers, and Cordage – providing a solid foundation for anyone serious about bushcraft. (Bushcraft 101 Website)
- SAS Survival Handbook, Revised Edition: For Any Climate, in Any Situation by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman: A comprehensive guide covering a huge range of survival scenarios, from urban emergencies to remote wilderness expeditions. While some techniques are dated, it remains a valuable resource.
- Advanced Bushcraft: An Expert Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival by Dave Canterbury: A natural progression from Bushcraft 101, this book delves into more advanced techniques like shelter building, trapping, and navigation.
- Prepared: A Manual for Surviving Worst-Case Scenarios by Tim MacWelch: This book lives up to its name. It’s a broad-spectrum guide covering everything from natural disasters to societal collapse, offering practical advice for a wide range of emergencies.
- The Ultimate Survival Medicine Guide: Emergency Preparedness for Any Disaster by Joseph Alton and Amy Alton: Medical emergencies are a significant concern in survival situations. This book provides essential medical knowledge for treating injuries and illnesses when professional help isn’t available.
True Survival Stories: Inspiration and Lessons Learned
Reading true survival stories books isn’t just about thrilling narratives; it’s about learning from the experiences of others. These accounts offer valuable insights into the human spirit and the importance of preparation.
- Alive: The Story of the Andes Survivors by Piers Paul Read: A harrowing account of the Uruguayan rugby team who crashed in the Andes Mountains in 1972 and resorted to extreme measures to survive.
- Lost in the Jungle: A Harrowing True Story of Survival by Yossi Ghinsberg: A gripping tale of a young Israeli adventurer who became separated from his group in the Amazon rainforest and endured weeks of unimaginable hardship.
- Touching the Void by Joe Simpson: A classic mountaineering survival story detailing Simpson’s incredible ordeal after a climbing accident in the Peruvian Andes.
Fiction: Immersive Scenarios and Skill Application
While non-fiction provides the knowledge, survival fiction books allow you to immerse yourself in realistic scenarios and mentally rehearse survival strategies. These wilderness survival novels can be incredibly engaging and thought-provoking.
Gripping Wilderness Survival Novels
- The Mountain Road by Jack London: A classic tale of a fugitive fleeing justice who must survive the harsh conditions of the Yukon wilderness.
- Hatchet by Gary Paulsen: A young adult novel that’s become a staple in survival literature. It follows a boy who must learn to survive alone in the Canadian wilderness after a plane crash.
- One Second After by William R. Forstchen: A post-apocalyptic novel depicting the aftermath of an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attack on the United States. A popular choice for those interested in prepping.
- The Long Walk by Stephen King (writing as Richard Bachman): A dystopian thriller where 100 teenage boys compete in a grueling walking contest with deadly consequences.
Authors to Watch: Mike Glover & Clay Hayes
Two authors gaining significant traction in the survival community are Mike Glover and Clay Hayes. Their work blends realistic scenarios with practical skills.
- Mike Glover: Glover, a former Special Forces soldier, writes gritty and realistic survival thrillers. His Mike Glover book recommendations often include his own series, focusing on tactical preparedness and self-reliance. Look for titles like Blind Man’s Bluff and Gray Man. He’s also known for his “Mike Glover bug out bag” philosophy, emphasizing practical and adaptable gear.
- Clay Hayes: Hayes is a survival expert and author known for his detailed and practical approach to bushcraft and self-sufficiency. His books, like Survival Skills of the American West, draw on historical knowledge and traditional techniques. A great Clay Hayes book for beginners.
Beyond Books: Les Stroud & Wild Harvest Recipes
For those who prefer visual learning, consider the work of Les Stroud. Known for his television show Survivorman, Stroud offers a wealth of knowledge on wilderness survival. His book, Wild Harvest Recipes Book Les Stroud, is a fantastic resource for foraging and preparing food in the wild. It’s a great companion to his other work, making him a leading voice in books on bushcraft and survival.
Prepping & Preparedness: Expanding Your Knowledge
The world of survival extends beyond wilderness skills. Prepping, or preparedness, focuses on preparing for a wide range of emergencies, from natural disasters to societal disruptions. These are some of the best prepping books available.
- The Prepper’s Handbook by William S. Prepper: A comprehensive guide covering all aspects of prepping, from food storage to self-defense.
- Disaster Preparedness for Dummies by Jack Elliott: A beginner-friendly guide to preparing for various disasters.
Resources & Further Learning
Don’t limit yourself to books! Here are some valuable resources for expanding your survival knowledge:
- National Park Service (nps.gov): Information on wilderness safety, Leave No Trace principles, and park-specific hazards.
- Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics (leavenotrace.org): Essential guidelines for minimizing your impact on the environment.
- USDA Forest Service (fs.usda.gov): Information on forest management, fire safety, and outdoor recreation.
- REI Expert Advice (rei.com/learn): A wealth of articles and videos on a wide range of outdoor topics.
Final Thoughts
The best survival nonfiction books and survival books fiction are tools – tools to empower you with knowledge, inspire resilience, and prepare you for the unexpected. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious beginner, there’s a book on this list to help you on your journey. Remember, reading is just the first step. Practice your skills, stay informed, and always prioritize safety in the outdoors. And if you're looking for more in-depth training, consider a wilderness survival course – you can find reputable providers through organizations like the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS). Happy reading, and stay prepared!