BUNKER illuminates the details and particulars in what is often perceived as the fringes of American society among "preppers" and those cynical folks awaiting disaster.

Well written and informative, the book provides loads of information about how and why folks plan to survive expected disasters or societal downfall. Alas, this reader was left with the cynical view that--like the current sociopolitical
and economic landscapes--those with extreme financial means will most likely get their expected "safehouses" and "bunkers" while the rest of us will be left with empty promises and the only safety is in what we can procure ourselves. ( )

Interesting and well-written, BUNKER provides a view into a world I've only ever seen from the fringes. And the fringes get well documented herein.

That said, I was ultimately sad by the impression left by the book's contents and reporting (if not the author's intent): Those with obscene amounts of money will get what they pay for in security and comfort, while the rest of us make do with either the preparations we can handle ourselves or get cheated by politician-level promises that have little to no backing in reality. ( )

Well, this is one for the times isn't it? Bradley Garrett actually started writing Bunker: Building For The End Times before Covid 19 hit, but finished it during the pandemic.

Pandemic. Apocalypse. Social breakdown. Political anarchy. What will you do or think you can do, to keep you and your loved ones safe? Are you prepped for any emergency? Many are - in many different ways. Here's a fact for you - in the US alone, 3.7 million Americans call themselves preppers.

Garrett takes us across the world exploring bunkers, bunker communities, preppers, bug out plans, kits and vehicles, conventions, and so much more. I was quite frankly astounded at the number of people and the lengths they are going to feel ready. The level of preparedness runs the gamut from extra groceries to full on in the ground communities.

Garrett meets with those who are selling safety, recounts the history of prepping, explores sites, and so much more. Garrett has an impressive background and it shows - the book is thoroughly researched and very well written.

There's lots of food for thought here - especially in these times. I do know one person who identifies as a prepper. They have goods for at least a year and a bug out plan. Who's to say what's going to be needed? Those that can afford it will certainly be at the head of the line. I was astounded by the dollar figures being floated. And based solely on some of the interviews included, there are many in the bunker community that I would say have some mental health issues.

Bunker was really interesting to listen to - informative and thought provoking.

I chose to listen to Bunker. Initially I thought the author would be the reader, but it was instead award winning narrator Adam Sims. His voice has a nice edge to it and I thought it suited the subject of the book really well. He captures the emotions and nuances of the work. His voice is clear, easy to understand and pleasant to listen to. ( )

The author traveled the world interviewing people who are preparing for the "end of the world" by constructing bunkers to ride out the storm in. Along the way, he examines some very elaborate structures, and meets a great variety of people who built them. I was surprised at the number of them, and found a lot of the people to be very odd (at least to me, but who am I to judge).
All in all, I found the book to be rather disturbing.
I think I will take my chances above ground. ( )