299 Days brings plausibility to the genre. Unlike many “dystopian” adventure novels where outside forces such as EMP’s, viruses, or meteors put an end to The world as we know it, this novel describes the beginnings of a very plausible vision of what could happen in the future. A “partial” collapse of the government/economy leading to nationwide lawlessness which up to now has only existed in very limited geographic areas after events such as Hurricane Katrina and The LA riots following the acquittal of the Rodney King police officers.
The author does a very good job describing how a pudgy lawyer comes to the realization that he needs to start preparing for the worst. His struggles with getting into shape, keeping his “prepping” a secret from his wife, and his eventual discovery and befriending of likeminded individuals hits home for those of us who have experienced the same thing.
The slow buildup and detailed exposition are great. I’ve started to recommend this book as a good first foray into the ideas behind the philosophy that it doesn’t hurt to put in some effort today to be ready for an uncertain tomorrow. 299 Days describes how a regular Joe becomes an accomplished prepper. Can’t wait to start part II!