WriterByNature.com

Giving Nature a Voice

Book Review: The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind

Category: Books, Survival, Technology

November 12, 2009 7:13 am

My idea of a good book is when I get to the end, I turn the book over and start reading it  again. William Kamkwamba is the actual boy who harnessed the wind.

It’s hard to imagine, as 2009 draws to a close, that there are people who live daily without electricity and running water. It’s hard to imagine communities without  free public education, but that’s reality in many countries.

So what made a boy ask, “How does electricity work?” (more…)

Using the Mac PowerBook to Find Light-Weight Gear for Woods Time and Work Time

Category: Hiking, Internet, Shelter, Survival, Technology

November 8, 2009 8:12 am

Finding the right light-weight gear to make long-distance backpacking more comfortable has been more of a challenge than I anticipated.

From the moment I learned about tarps and hammocks, I was hooked. My latest challenge has been finding the right backpack.

My gear quest involves spending both woods time and computer time. It’s great to see what’s being marketed online. Some sites even include instructional videos. But unless a merchant has a decent return policy, tread carefully. You have to test the gear in the field. (more…)