Cassandra Neace is a high school English teacher in Houston. When she's not in the classroom, she reads books and writes about them. She prides herself on her ability to recommend a book for most any occasion. She can be found on Instagram @read_write_make
As the East Coast buckles down for what forecasters are calling a “Frankenstorm,” I thought I would help you get ready for the long hours without power that are being predicted for much of the northeastern United States. I am providing this public service for you, the reader, because the typical hurricane preparedness lists out there ignore the needs of readers and the books that they hold dear. After consulting a self-proclaimed hurricane expert (my boyfriend), I present you with these tips for making it through the next few days.
If a hurricane is likely in the area, readers should:
Proceed to the liquor store and purchase the entire stock of your favorite adult beverage and fill a cooler with reading snacks, preferably salty and fried things. It is going to be rough, so you might as well indulge a bit.
Purchase a large, gasoline-powered generator so that ereaders, mp3 players, and phones can be charged and loaded with appropriate reading material.
Call, text, or tweet book club members to figure out who has the best book/booze/snack stash. Casually mention your generator.
Choose a few big books to throw at potential looters or moochers that want in on your generator to charge their ereaders.
Make sure all of your reading material is off the floor, next to your favorite reading spot. Have a water-resistant book bag at the ready in case your living room furniture begins to float.
Have access to a number of alternate light sources, which may include book lights, flashlights, and/or candles. Be careful, however, when turning pages next to an open flame.
Dress in layers, cuddle under a warm blanket, and remember the roof is the best place for helicopters to find you if you need to be rescued at some point later on.
In the event you are forced to flee your home, do so with as many books as you can. Pack your books in water-tight containers labeled with your name, address, and hope for their safe return.
How do you plan on weathering out the storm? Share your Hurricane Sandy survival tips!