The author provides an interesting accounting of his wilderness canoe adventure with five companions, including of course, the bear attack and his own recovery. He provides sufficient detail of the trip to understand the rigors, uncertainties, and joys of self-powered adventure travel as he and his fellow paddlers experienced them. His account of the bear attack and its aftermath is sufficiently gruesome to shed at least some insight into the terror, pain, and stress he endured both during and after the assault. The book’s one failing is the lack of perspectives of his companions, especially after his injuries and the impact it all had on the rest of their journey. The experience of the leader, who provided extensive medical care, is especially missed. Otherwise, a fine book. ( )

This book recounts the true story of the author's trip through the Canadian wilderness at 17. Alex Messenger spent summers and winter breaks trekking through the wilderness building up to this longest and most remote trek available from Camp Menogyn. 42 days of hiking, canoeing, portaging.....sleeping, eating and living in the wilderness with five other teens. 42 days of wild rivers, lakes, and forest. Fresh air and freedom. A 17 year old boy's dream. Until.....

......the grizzly bear.

I love adventure stories, especially those set in remote wilderness areas. This book was such an exciting and enjoyable read. It grabbed my attention immediately and held it throughout. I can't imagine what I would do if I was badly mauled by a grizzly bear far away from a hospital or any assistance other than a group of friends. These boys wanted an adventure....and they got much more than they bargained for. It definitely proves wilderness is beautiful....but also very dangerous and unpredictable.

This is an incredible story of strength in incredibly dangerous circumstances. Great book!

**I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book from Blackstone Publishing via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.** ( )

Engrossing tale about the author's bear encounter and subsequent aftermath while canoeing in northern Canada. Evocative descriptions of the attack and field surgery were particular highlights. ( )