BOOK REVIEW
Sustainable living without relying on technology

By Wanda A. Adams
Advertiser Books Editor

"WHEN TECHNOLOGY FAILS: A Manual for Self-Reliance & Planetary Survival" by Matthew Stein. Clear Light Publishing, oversize paperback, $19.95 Matthew Stein Author/engineer Matthew Stein will give free mini-lectures on sustainable living and emergency preparedness, and sign books, at: 1 p.m. today, Barnes & Noble, Kahala Mall Noon tomorrow, Borders Books & Music, Ward Centre 4 p.m. tomorrow, Borders Books & Music, Waikele

Stein's focus is on preparedness and sustainability: being ready in the short term in case technology becomes unavailable and relying less in the long run on expensive, high-tech and unrenewable resources.

But the MIT-trained engineer and owner of Aloha 'Aina Builders Co. says this book isn't a survivalist manifesto or a panic call. It is a very practical and down-to-earth manual that could be useful anytime.

For example, there is a detailed, illustrated first-aid guide; a food chapter that covers gardening techniques for getting more out of the soil while not robbing its richness, and interesting segments on homemade utensils and storage vessels, soapmaking and candlemaking that could be fodder for crafts ventures.

Here in the path of the hurricane, the information on emergency survival and water is particularly important. And, like "Whole Earth," Stein ends every chapter with references to helpful books and a list of resources for purchasing items or finding out more.

Beyond the practicalities, Stein's first two chapters are a well-reasoned argument, buttressed with the latest scientific facts, for planning ahead, doing what

we can to assure the best possible future for ourselves and our children. Throughout, the writing is clear, the tone measured but optimistic, the information valuable.