Too many Americans lack the know-how and provisions to adequately handle even a small disaster-be it man-made or natural. Meanwhile, the image of the disaster prepper as either paranoid or actively hoping for social disruption has become commonplace. It's time to face the sad truth: the disaster preparedness movement in America has failed.

In "Pivot Points," experienced disaster "prepper" Paul T. Martin argues for a shift in how America views disaster preparation. Instead of their dismissing prepping as a hobby or the result of an overactive imagination, Martin challenges individuals,...