The author's background in off-the-grid living began very basically. That is, he knew almost nothing about remote living until Ihetook on the challenge in 2001. His Canadian friend, John, helped him get started, and he has become the focus of the books in this series. Through John's guidance, the author has developed off-the-grid skills in a wonderful learning environment. All of us (except those extremely mechanically-inclined) need a 'John' in our remote living lifestyle, at least to begin our adventure. The good news is that remote regions have an abundance of these highly-skilled individuals, if you look around. Ask other locals for recommendations regarding how to find someone like John, and you'll never regret it.
