Being from a family of “herders” who represent the balance between the “sheep” and the “wolves” of the world, the McCracken family is arguably more geared up for survival than most. Kelton has taken his father’s philosophy of survival seriously, and a first moment when we see Kelton’s will to survive is when he describes his “elevated tactical unit,” or tree house.

I’ve got quite my own stockpile of supplies, separate and apart from the stuff Dad has in our safe room. Weapons-wise, I’ve got a paintball gun, a tactical hunting slingshot, and a Wildcat Whisper pellet rifle. As far as supplies go, I have enough Mountain Dew to keep me awake for weeks if need be, not to mention chicken-flavored Top Ramen, my favorite comfort food—because it’s comforting to know that in the event of nuclear fallout, my food has enough MSG and preservatives to out-survive all of mankind.

This shows just how prepared Kelton is for some kind of apocalyptic event. The fact that his stockpile is separate from his father’s shows that he is thinking about all possible outcomes and that his will to survive has led him to practical action.

When the electricity at Alyssa and Garrett’s house goes off in the aftermath of their parents not returning from their trip to get water, Kelton sleeps over, and on two occasions, Alyssa finds him keeping watch.

Twice I went downstairs to find Kelton doing the Boy Scout thing—reading a book by flashlight, while keeping watch for the nonexistent bad guys he was so sure would be crashing through our windows to suck the moisture out of our veins.

Kelton, who we know to be in possession of a pistol, is not taking their safety for granted. By keeping watch during the night, he shows his will to survive and his understanding of the seriousness of their situation—although it should be noted that in spite of his best intentions, he doesn’t manage to stay awake all night.

The next morning, when Kelton, Alyssa, and Garrett plan to make the trip to Laguna Beach, Kelton is wearing “what looks like a duck hunting outfit.” He is prepared for anything, with survival rope and pockets that Alyssa imagines to be full of useful supplies. Kelton’s top priority, as always, is safety, and he doesn’t care if he looks silly. His will to survive supersedes his need to look socially acceptable.

When he returns, he’s suited up in what looks like a duck hunting outfit, fully loaded with survival rope, and a million pockets. I don’t have the energy to make fun of him now, and I’ve come to trust that there’s a reason for everything he does.

Once again, Kelton’s level of preparedness for and acceptance of the dangers that lie ahead shows his immense will to survive.