The Forest Life: A Classic Guide to Canoeing, Fishing, Hunting, and Bushcraft

Forest Life is a collection of George Washington Sears' timeless writing about the joys of exploring the wilderness, edited for a modern audience. It includes practical advice on trips into the woods and lakes, such as equipment, campfires, fishing, camp cooking, traveling light, and canoes, and is illustrated with period etchings of scenes, people, flora, and fauna of the Adirondacks.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2018
Publisher: Running Press,U.S.

Forest Life is a captivating collection of George Washington Sears' timeless writings on the joys of exploring the wilderness. Edited for a modern audience, Sears offers practical and inspirational advice on trips into the woods and lakes, covering topics such as equipment, campfires, fishing, camp cooking, traveling light, and canoes. His passion for the outdoors shines through, as he encourages others to embrace the beauty and serenity of nature.

Sears' love for the forest began at a young age, and he dedicated his life to promoting its appreciation. His seminal work, Woodcraft, was published in 1884 with the aim of preparing skillful and self-reliant woodsmen and emphasizing the restorative power of nature. In his writing, Sears captures the contrasting emotions experienced by individuals when encountering a pathless forest. Some feel appalled and panic-stricken, while others revel in the fresh, free, and invigorating delight of plunging into an unbroken forest.

Sears' eloquence is particularly evident in his descriptions of canoeing, which he helped popularize through published tales of his adventures. Despite suffering from tuberculosis at the age of 61, he embarked on a remarkable journey through the Adirondacks in a 9-foot, 10-1/2-pound canoe, covering a distance of 266 miles. He marveled at the soothing rocking of the canoe, which lulled him into a deep sleep and often transported him into dreamland. Sears' accounts of his canoeing experiences showcase his deep connection with the natural world and his ability to find solace and inspiration in its embrace.

Forest Life not only features Sears' renowned writing but also includes many of his articles from Forest and Stream and his nature poetry. His poetic descriptions of the forest and its inhabitants evoke a sense of awe and wonder, capturing the essence of the wilderness in words that are both beautiful and evocative.

This two-color gift book, adorned with period etchings of scenes, people, flora, and fauna of the Adirondacks, is a perfect gift for the outdoor enthusiast. Its handsome design and affordable price make it a treasured addition to any collection. Whether you are a seasoned explorer or a novice seeking to discover the wonders of nature, Forest Life offers timeless wisdom and inspiration that will enhance your outdoor experiences and deepen your appreciation for the natural world.

Weight: 1138g
Dimension: 198 x 284 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780762465538