Customer Reviews

The Wilderness Paddler's Handbook

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While not as extensive as Cliff Jacobson's book on expedition canoeing, its main advantage is that it makes wilderness canoeing seem less a daunting and complicated task, but more an exciting possibility (with some careful planning, of course). In addition it gives clear advice on aspects from planning the trip, who to take in the group, and family trips. The text is interesting to read with both funny and not-so-funny anecdotes. More often than not I turn to this book in my hours of despair when my the planning just gets too much. Life can be too complicated (and gimicky) sometimes. Not so with this book.

This is the best canoeing book I own. Here's why:

1) The book is full of great advice for both the beginner and advanced paddler, including DIY projects that are really innovative (canoe spray deck, solo saddle, etc). There are tons of ideas on how to make the trips more efficient and easier (this book convinced me to start dehydrating my own meals - haven't looked back since)!

2) The book's writing style is straightforward and non-intimidating.

3) There are anecdotes throughout the book that really immerse you in Alan's wilderness experiences, and serve as an inspiration for future trips.

Awesome book. I bought it four years ago, and read it about 4-5 times since. I've learned something new each time.