The Knowledge
notes
probably not the book i would take with me on an island.
it mostly suffers from the same problem of trying to use wikipedia in that it explains how to build things with a lot of hidden assumptions of capabilities, expertise and knowledge
with that said, it is a fun reference and i learned a lot about things like soap, chemicals, basic tools and more.
link
summary
If a catastrophic event were to occur and all technology and infrastructure were wiped out, could society rebuild? In "The Knowledge: How to Rebuild Civilization in the Aftermath of a Cataclysm," Lewis Dartnell explores what knowledge and skills would be needed to jumpstart a new civilization. From basic chemistry and botany to architecture and metalworking, Dartnell delves into the essential scientific and technological principles that have enabled human society to thrive. His accessible writing style and real-world examples make even complex topics easy to understand, making this book an invaluable resource for anyone interested in science, history, and survival skills. So if you've ever pondered how to make soap from scratch, or how to build a kiln for firing pottery, "The Knowledge" has got you covered.