The Unthinkable: Who Survives when Disaster Strikes – and why
by Amanda Ripley, 2008

The more prepared individuals are, the more likely they are to survive. Relying on external sources of aid/support/technology is much less reliable. You should know that you have the power to control your situation in a disaster (man-made or natural).

Well-written, and the audiobook version is well-read.

Peak
by Roland Smith, 2007

Fast, gripping climbing novel. Marketed for young adults, but I was still entertained. Will pass it on to Maria and then my young cousins.

I keep a list of books to read as I come across interesting options. This has been on my list for a few years, but unfortunately I don’t remember the source of the recommendation.