About Maverick Mock:
Maverick Mock is an advocate for sustainable living and self-sufficiency, with decades of experience in homesteading and survival skills. Raised in a rural setting, he developed a deep connection with nature, which led to a lifelong commitment to understanding and using natural resources. Maverick's practical, hands-on approach empowers individuals to reduce their environmental footprint. His latest book, "No Grid Survival Projects Bible," offers step-by-step instructions for thriving off-grid.
What inspires you to write?
The inspiration behind this book really came from a growing concern I had about the increasing instability in the world—whether it's natural disasters, economic uncertainty, or even the unpredictability of global systems. Over the years, I've seen how vulnerable many people are when they rely entirely on modern conveniences. That realization fueled my desire to create a comprehensive guide that could help anyone, regardless of their experience level, become more self-sufficient.
The more I researched and developed my own off-grid projects, the more I realized there were practical, time-tested methods that could empower individuals to take control of their lives. This book was born out of a passion for independence, for being prepared, and for wanting to share what I’ve learned with others who are on the same path.
What authors do you read when you aren’t writing?
As an author deeply invested in survival, self-reliance, and practical living, I’ve drawn inspiration from a wide range of writers who share similar values or have contributed greatly to these topics. Here are a few of my personal favorites:
1. Cody Lundin
Cody is a survival expert and the author of books like 98.6 Degrees: The Art of Keeping Your Ass Alive and When All Hell Breaks Loose. His no-nonsense, practical approach to survival resonates with me. He’s all about teaching real-world skills in an accessible way, which is something I strive to do in my own work. Plus, his hands-on experiences make his books both engaging and informative.
2. Tom Brown Jr.
Tom Brown Jr. is another survivalist who has greatly influenced the world of wilderness survival. His book, The Tracker, is a classic, and his teachings on tracking, nature observation, and primitive survival skills are unparalleled. He really taps into the idea that survival is not just about tools and resources, but about knowledge and connection with nature—something I find inspiring.
3. John Seymour
John Seymour’s The Self-Sufficient Life and How to Live It is one of the best books out there for anyone interested in off-grid living. His philosophy on sustainability, permaculture, and reducing dependence on modern systems has been incredibly influential for me. He blends practical techniques with a deep understanding of how to live in harmony with nature, which aligns with many of the principles in No Grid Survival Projects Bible.
4. James Wesley Rawles
Rawles’ Patriots series, starting with Patriots: Surviving the Coming Collapse, has become a go-to for anyone interested in preparedness from a fictional and informational standpoint. His writing weaves detailed survival tactics into compelling narratives, which gives readers both an engaging story and valuable lessons. I appreciate how his work brings awareness to practical preparedness in a way that’s easy to digest.
5. Bradford Angier
Bradford Angier’s How to Stay Alive in the Woods is a timeless survival guide. His work is simple yet comprehensive, and he focuses heavily on core wilderness survival skills. I admire how Angier cuts through unnecessary complexity and gives readers straightforward, actionable information—much like what I aim to do with my own projects.
6. Laura Ingalls Wilder
Though not typically associated with survival guides, The Little House on the Prairie series by Laura Ingalls Wilder has always resonated with me. Her detailed descriptions of pioneer life, the challenges her family faced, and their resilience in the face of adversity are deeply inspirational. It’s a powerful reminder that survival and self-sufficiency have been a part of human history for centuries.
These authors have shaped my perspective on survival and self-sufficiency, not just by providing practical knowledge, but also by fostering a mindset of resilience, preparedness, and respect for nature. They remind me that survival is as much about mindset as it is about tools and techniques, and that’s something I aim to pass on to my readers.
Tell us about your writing process.
Absolutely, I’d be happy to share a bit about my writing process. For me, it all starts with research and real-world testing. Since No Grid Survival Projects Bible is all about off-grid living and survival, I place a huge emphasis on making sure every strategy or project I include is something I’ve tested or deeply researched. I want readers to trust that what they’re learning is reliable and effective.
Here’s how my writing process typically unfolds:
1. Research and Hands-On Experimentation
Before I put anything down on paper, I dive deep into research. I read a wide range of materials, from scientific studies to practical guides and forums. But beyond research, I also test the concepts in real life. I believe survival and off-grid strategies only work if they’ve been proven in real conditions. For instance, if I’m writing about building a solar oven, I build one myself, troubleshoot it, and make adjustments. My goal is to make sure readers don’t just get theories—they get workable, real-world solutions.
2. Organizing Ideas and Outlining
Once I have a solid foundation of knowledge and experience, I move on to outlining the book. For a guide like No Grid Survival Projects Bible, structure is critical. I break down the content into logical sections—starting with the basics and then moving into more complex projects. This helps readers of all experience levels follow along without getting overwhelmed.
3. Writing Step-by-Step Instructions
Because this book focuses heavily on practical projects, clarity is key. When I start writing, I break everything down into simple, step-by-step instructions. I put myself in the shoes of someone who is attempting these projects for the first time, making sure that each step is easy to follow. If there’s a potential challenge or common mistake people might encounter, I make sure to include tips or troubleshooting advice. My aim is to make the process as foolproof as possible.
4. Balancing Information and Motivation
While practical guidance is important, I also want to keep readers motivated and engaged. Throughout the writing, I sprinkle in bits of encouragement, reminding them why self-sufficiency is empowering. Survival is not just about preparation for crises—it’s about taking control of your life, your home, and your resources. I try to emphasize that this journey is not just practical, but also deeply fulfilling.
5. Editing and Refining
Once the first draft is done, I step back and revisit the material with fresh eyes. I revise everything to make sure it’s as concise and clear as possible. I’ll also add in any diagrams or visuals that can help explain the projects better. I’m always asking myself, "Will this be easy to follow in a real-world situation?" If not, I rework it until it is.
6. Feedback from Experts and Readers
Finally, before publication, I often reach out to people with expertise in specific areas for feedback. This helps me ensure the information is not only accurate but also up to date with the latest techniques and tools. Getting feedback from fellow survivalists or people who have experience with off-grid living helps refine the final product and makes it even more useful for readers.
Staying Practical and Realistic
One of the core values of my writing process is practicality. I write with the intent to empower people—not just with knowledge, but with the ability to take action immediately. That’s why I’m constantly thinking about the reader’s journey. Can they implement this project today? Is this a realistic solution for their situation? I want my readers to feel capable, not intimidated.
At the end of the day, my writing process is all about making sure the information is useful and that readers feel confident in taking action. Whether they’re just beginning their off-grid journey or are already seasoned in survival, I want this book to serve as a trusted companion.
What advice would you give other writers?
As someone who’s spent a lot of time writing about practical, hands-on topics like survival and self-sufficiency, I’ve learned a few lessons along the way that could be helpful to other writers, no matter the genre. Here’s the advice I’d share:
1. Write What You Know (or What You’re Willing to Learn)
The most powerful writing comes from a place of deep knowledge or genuine curiosity. If you’re an expert on a topic, lean into that and share your expertise in a way that helps others. If you’re not an expert yet, dive in and learn everything you can. In my case, I’ve spent years testing and refining off-grid projects before ever writing about them. Readers appreciate authenticity, and they can tell when you’re writing from experience.
2. Stay Practical and Focused
For writers like myself, who focus on instructional or non-fiction books, clarity is key. Keep your writing focused and practical, especially when you’re explaining concepts or giving step-by-step instructions. Readers should be able to follow your guidance without confusion. Avoid the temptation to overcomplicate things—simplicity is your friend, especially when tackling technical topics.
3. Listen to Your Audience
Understanding your audience is crucial. Whether you’re writing fiction, non-fiction, or anything in between, listen to your readers. What are their concerns? What are they hoping to learn from your work? In my case, people interested in self-sufficiency and survival need practical advice, so I make sure my writing addresses their real-world problems directly. If you’re writing fiction, this can mean listening to feedback about pacing, characters, or themes.
4. Embrace Revisions
No first draft is perfect. As much as I’d love to get everything right on the first go, that’s just not how it works. Embrace the revision process—this is where your writing really takes shape. Don’t be afraid to cut sections, rework passages, or restructure your content entirely. The goal is to make your writing the best it can be, and that takes time and patience.
5. Be Consistent
Writing, especially for large projects like books, is a long game. Consistency is more important than waiting for bursts of inspiration. Set small, achievable goals—whether that’s writing 500 words a day or dedicating an hour every morning to your craft. Over time, those small efforts add up to something substantial. Consistency also helps you keep your momentum, which is critical when tackling bigger projects.
6. Stay True to Your Voice
Your unique voice is what sets you apart from other writers. Don’t try to mimic someone else’s style—readers appreciate authenticity. Whether you’re writing non-fiction guides like I do or telling stories, let your personality and perspective shine through. For me, that means being practical and direct, but also motivating. Figure out what makes your voice unique and lean into that.
7. Don’t Be Afraid of Feedback
Criticism can be tough, but it’s invaluable for growth. Whether it’s from beta readers, editors, or even online reviews, take feedback seriously and use it to improve. Not all feedback will be useful, but if you can learn to sift through and recognize constructive criticism, it will only make you a stronger writer. In my case, feedback from survivalists or people who tried out my projects helped me fine-tune the instructions in No Grid Survival Projects Bible.
8. Remember Your “Why”
Writing is hard work, and there will be times when it feels like an uphill battle. In those moments, it helps to remind yourself why you’re writing in the first place. For me, it’s the desire to help people become more self-sufficient and confident in uncertain times. Keeping that purpose in mind keeps me motivated. Whether you’re writing to inform, entertain, or inspire, your “why” will help push you through those difficult days.
Writing is both a craft and a journey. Whether you’re working on your first project or your fiftieth, don’t lose sight of the passion that brought you here. Stay patient, stay persistent, and always be open to learning and improving. The more you write, the better you’ll get—and the more impact you’ll have on your readers.
How did you decide how to publish your books?
Deciding how to publish my books was a journey in itself, and I had to weigh several factors to figure out what worked best for me and my goals. Here’s how I approached the decision-making process and what led me to my final choices:
1. Understanding My Audience
First and foremost, I knew that my audience—people interested in off-grid living, survival, and self-sufficiency—tends to prefer practical and accessible content. They’re not necessarily looking for a beautifully bound hardcover; they want reliable, actionable information they can start using right away. This realization pushed me toward digital publishing and print-on-demand options because they provide convenience, instant access, and affordability for readers.
2. Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing
One of the earliest decisions I had to make was whether to go with a traditional publisher or to self-publish. Here’s what I considered:
Traditional Publishing: Traditional publishers offer credibility, access to a large distribution network, and, in some cases, marketing support. But they also come with long wait times, less control over the creative process, and lower royalty percentages. I wanted to maintain creative control and get my book out quickly, especially since the topic of survival and preparedness is often time-sensitive.
Self-Publishing: Self-publishing gave me complete control over the content, design, and timeline. I liked the idea of being able to communicate directly with my readers and adjust my book in response to feedback. It also offers much higher royalties per sale. For an audience that values independence and directness, self-publishing felt like the perfect match.
Ultimately, I chose self-publishing for the flexibility, control, and faster time to market. I wanted to ensure that every part of my book reflected my vision, and self-publishing allowed me to do that.
3. Choosing the Right Platforms
Once I decided on self-publishing, the next step was choosing where and how to publish. There are many platforms out there, but I wanted ones that could reach a broad audience. Here’s what I settled on:
Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP): Amazon’s KDP was a no-brainer. It offers global reach and is one of the largest platforms for books. It supports both eBooks and print-on-demand paperbacks, which means I didn’t have to worry about warehousing or upfront printing costs. The simplicity of getting my book in front of millions of readers was too good to pass up.
Other Digital Platforms: While Amazon is a major player, I also explored other platforms like Apple Books, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble Press to reach readers who prefer alternatives. I wanted my book to be as accessible as possible, no matter what platform or device people use.
Print Options: I also considered having physical copies available, especially for readers who like to have a book in hand when working on projects. With print-on-demand services like KDP, I was able to offer a paperback version without having to deal with printing or inventory costs.
4. Marketing and Promotion
Another reason I leaned toward self-publishing was the direct marketing opportunities it provides. Traditional publishers tend to focus on their bestsellers, and new authors often have to do much of their own promotion anyway. By self-publishing, I was already responsible for my marketing, which meant I could take a more targeted approach to reach my niche audience.
I created a marketing strategy that included:
Social Media: Platforms like Facebook and Instagram helped me connect directly with the prepping and survivalist communities.
Email Lists: Building an email list was crucial to staying in touch with readers and keeping them updated on new releases, bonus content, and tips.
Blogs and Forums: Writing guest posts and engaging in forums like Reddit allowed me to share my knowledge and build trust within the survivalist community.
Self-publishing gave me the flexibility to experiment with different marketing strategies, tweak them based on what worked, and build a direct relationship with my readers.
5. Iterating and Improving
One of the greatest advantages of self-publishing is the ability to update and improve the book as I get feedback. With platforms like KDP, I can revise the digital and print versions of my book at any time. If readers point out something that can be improved or if new techniques come to light, I can incorporate that into future editions or updates. This constant iteration helps me keep my book relevant and useful.
Choosing to self-publish allowed me to stay in control of every aspect of my book while getting it out to readers quickly and efficiently. It also aligned perfectly with my audience and my goals as an author. The process hasn’t always been easy—self-publishing requires a lot of work, especially when it comes to marketing—but it has been incredibly rewarding. If you're a writer who values creative freedom, wants direct contact with readers, and enjoys learning the business side of things, I would highly recommend considering the self-publishing route.
What do you think about the future of book publishing?
The future of book publishing is evolving rapidly, and as both a writer and someone deeply interested in self-sufficiency and adaptability, I find it fascinating to observe these changes. Here’s what I think we can expect moving forward in the world of book publishing:
1. Continued Growth of Self-Publishing
I believe self-publishing will keep gaining momentum. Platforms like Amazon KDP, Apple Books, and other self-publishing services have made it easier than ever for authors to publish their work without relying on traditional publishers. Self-publishing gives writers creative control, higher royalties, and the ability to engage directly with their readers.
As technology improves and tools for self-publishing become more sophisticated (better formatting options, enhanced marketing tools), I think we’ll see more and more authors opt for this route—especially those in niche markets like mine, where building a dedicated audience matters more than mass appeal.
2. Hybrid Publishing Models
In addition to traditional and self-publishing, I see hybrid publishing models becoming more common. These models allow authors to share some of the responsibilities with a publisher while retaining more control and a higher share of profits than they would in a traditional contract. It’s a kind of middle ground that appeals to writers who want professional support in editing, marketing, and distribution without giving up their independence.
3. Rise of Subscription Models
We’re already seeing subscription services like Kindle Unlimited and Scribd change how readers consume books. In the same way that streaming services like Netflix revolutionized the film and TV industries, I think we’ll continue to see a shift toward subscription-based reading platforms.
This model gives readers access to a vast library for a fixed fee, which encourages them to explore more books from different authors. For writers, it means thinking about how to engage readers long-term and potentially writing series or interconnected content to keep readers subscribed.
4. Audiobooks and Multimodal Content
The popularity of audiobooks is exploding, and I see this trend continuing to grow. Many people today have busy lifestyles and prefer listening to books while commuting, exercising, or multitasking. This presents an opportunity for authors to reach a wider audience by offering their work in multiple formats—print, eBook, and audiobook.
As the demand for audiobooks grows, more authors will look to narrate their own books or hire professional narrators. Additionally, the rise of AI-generated audiobooks could make it easier for authors to produce this format without the high cost of human narration.
5. AI and Technology in Publishing
Artificial Intelligence and other technologies are already making their way into the publishing world. AI can assist with everything from editing and proofreading to cover design and even marketing. Tools like AI-based writing assistants can help authors overcome writer’s block or refine their prose.
In the future, we may see more AI-driven platforms that help writers publish faster, smarter, and more cost-effectively. However, it’s important for authors to maintain their creative voice and vision, ensuring that technology remains a tool, not a replacement for authentic writing.
6. More Direct-to-Reader Relationships
Social media, email newsletters, and crowdfunding platforms like Patreon and Kickstarter have enabled authors to build direct relationships with their readers. I think we’ll see more writers bypassing traditional intermediaries entirely, opting to create books with the support of their communities.
This direct-to-reader model allows for greater creative freedom and means authors can gauge interest before even writing a book. It’s also a great way for readers to feel more involved in the creation process, which can lead to a stronger bond between the author and their audience.
7. Increased Global Reach
With the growth of digital platforms, publishing is no longer restricted by geography. Self-publishing has opened up a global market, allowing authors to reach readers across borders without needing physical distribution networks. As digital access grows worldwide, especially in developing regions, there will be more opportunities for authors to sell their work internationally.
I see the future of publishing as one where language barriers are minimized, perhaps through AI-driven translation services. This could make it easier for books to be translated and enjoyed by readers in different languages, expanding an author’s global reach.
8. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Publishing
As awareness of environmental issues grows, I expect to see a shift toward more eco-friendly publishing practices. Traditional publishing, with its reliance on paper and physical distribution, may face pressure to adopt sustainable methods.
Digital books are naturally more sustainable, but even in the realm of physical books, there’s potential for change. From using recycled paper to eco-friendly inks and greener distribution channels, publishers and authors alike will need to consider the environmental impact of their work. I think readers, too, will start to prioritize sustainability when choosing how they consume books.
9. Interactive and Enhanced Ebooks
While the eBook format has been around for years, I think the future holds more interactive and enhanced eBooks. We might see books with embedded videos, audio clips, or other interactive elements that provide a more immersive reading experience.
This could be especially exciting for non-fiction genres like mine, where projects or tutorials could include video demonstrations or real-time feedback tools. As technology becomes more integrated with content, readers will expect books to be more than just static text—they’ll want an experience.
Overall, I’m optimistic about the future of book publishing. Writers today have more tools and opportunities than ever before to share their stories and knowledge with the world. The landscape is becoming more democratized, and whether through self-publishing, hybrid models, or traditional routes, authors have more control over their work.
The key will be to adapt—whether that’s by embracing new technologies, learning to market directly to readers, or offering books in multiple formats. As an author, it’s exciting to think about the possibilities that lie ahead in the constantly evolving world of publishing.
What genres do you write?: Disasters Preparedness
What formats are your books in?: Both eBook and Print
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Maverick Mock Home Page Link
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All information in this post is presented “as is” supplied by the author. We don’t edit to allow you the reader to hear the author in their own voice.
