In Case You Get Hit By a Bus is described as a  “step-by-step program for getting your life in order, so you’re prepared for the unexpected.” Written by the people responsible for Everplans, a company that specializes in “digital life planning,” it includes three general areas. The first is “urgent,” and is excellent at itemizing the truly essential things that someone will need right after you get hit by that bus: things like passwords. They have specific recommendations, including several password managers (including Dashlane, which I use and love). The second general area is the “technical,” which extensively outlines how to create a manual for the systems in your home (who should be called if the A/C stops working?). It is exhaustive and incredibly useful. The third area is nostalgic, including things like how to assemble a living memoir, write your own obituary, etc .  

The odds of getting hit by a bus are 495,000 to 1, but the odds that you are going to die? Yes! Everyone needs to do some planning, I would expect. Not too long ago, my husband and I were involved in untangling the affairs  of his parents and my aunt following their passing. Fortunately, all had wills, which helped a LOT. My aunt had planned everything so that things went very smoothly. But we realized the amount of STUFF that needs to be handled as part of this process, and since we have no children, we thought “who is going to have to take care of everything after we are gone?” We spent a lot of time creating a trust, etc etc etc. I actually thought we had things fairly well covered. But reading this book made me realize we still have a lot to take care of. 

The idea is that if you follow the guidelines this book, you will end up with a system for managing passwords and secret codes, your money and assets (including bills and debts) will be organized, you will understand medical directives,  wills, powers of attorney, and trusts, and you will at least have THOUGHT about what to do with photos, recipes, and family heirlooms. It isn’t something that is easy to talk about or deal with, but if you have been through it after someone passes, you know what a help this kind of planning can be. Yes, they are trying to sell subscriptions to Everplans, but it definitely isn’t required, and any steps you can take as a result of reading this will help whoever after you are gone. Five stars