At Home in the Real World ― A Manual for the Modern Woman in an Unstable World

When it comes to home security and defense, nobody takes on the topics of Awareness, Prevention and Defense like Suzy Meyer. In At Home in the Real World: A Manual for the Modern Woman in an Unstable World, she uses personal narrative and illustrations, to capture her own transformation from Queen of Denial to a stronger, more grounded individual capable of defending herself and her home. Meyer boldly exposes dangerous myths about police protection and restraining orders, and uncovers the shocking extent of unreported crimes against people and property. Each reader is shown how to assess the safety of her or his home and how to strengthen weak areas. These lessons are based on three tenets: Eliminate Surprise, Deter Access, and Have a Plan! Meyer also encourages each person to tap into their primal instincts and get strong, both physically and mentally. In Defense, she gives careful consideration to unarmed self defense, improvised weapons, pepper spray, and firearms. The treatment on guns for home and self defense is thoughtfully and articulately rendered. The combination of narrative, images, quotes and humor make it a compelling read that’s been called “a manual to live by." The book includes: • 5 Dangerous Myths • 1 U.S. Constitutional Evryone Should Know • 1 History Lesson on Defensive Castles • 3 "Think Like a Predator" Exercises • 20 Home Security Products; 3 DIY Projects • 4 Case Studieson Doors & Windows • 12 Improvised Weapons • 4 Lessons in Badassery • 10 Body Weapons • 15 Body Targets • 3 Considerations for New Gun Buyers • 3 Recommended Firearms for Home Defense • 8 Legal Terms You Need to Know • and more.

Suzy Meyer is a landscape architect and environmental educator living in the city of Pittsburgh. Her previous publications include award-winning regional atlases about water and watersheds. She never gave much thought to home security or self defense–until she started working from home. That’s when she heard gunfire, then learned her neighborhood ranked in the top 10% for home break-ins. Feeling vulnerable and unsure what to do, she set out on a journey of unexpected personal transformation to make her world safer (and sleep better at night). Suzy’s married with two dog-kids; loves to garden, cook, and travel. She’s an NRA-certified firearms instructor and student of domestic badassery.