WINNER, 2004 NATIONAL OUTDOOR BOOK AWARD! (Outdoor Literature)
In today's high-tech world, getting away from the stresses of everyday life can be tricky. Cell phones, palm pilots, and laptop computers allow you to be wired-in from pretty much anywhere. But Ted Kerasote wanted none of that. He wanted a chance to disconnect from the buzz and grind of the wired world. And what better way to do that than to head to the far reaches of Canada's Northwest Territories for a canoe trip through 400 miles of wilderness.
Or so he thought. Much to Ted's chagrin, his friend and traveling companion, Len, brings a satellite phone along on the journey, ostensibly in case of emergency. Throughout the trip, however, Len uses the phone simply to touch base with family, friends, and the office--undermining their sense of being "Out There."
"Out There: In the Wild in a Wired Age" is Kerasote's entertaining account of this journey down the Horton River toward the Arctic Ocean, through a stunning landscape of tundra and varied wildlife. Between navigating rapids, staying warm and dry in rainstorms, and avoiding grizzly bears, Ted and Len discuss the meaning of life, love, and solitude in a wired age.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
I NOW HAVE A NEW FAVORITE AUTHOR:
Well it started with Merle's Door. After that wonderful book I wanted to read more about the writer and see what else he had up his sleeve. Well I was not dissappointed with this book. What a joy to read. Every sentence, every word was descriptive. He does not waste words. Very enjoyable and a pleaseure to read. It feels like you are right there with him enjoying the same visual treat, in the canoe, watching the wildlife or lying in the tent while the rain pours from the skys. I love the way this guy... more info
Quick but enjoyable:
This book was chosen for our book discussion group which was a good choice because it was easy to finish in time for the discussion and enjoyable. It did read like an article in Outside magazine, which I believe is part of the author's background. It does take you "Out There" which is what I liked about the book.
Dissapointing:
Ordered this because it was suggested by Amazon as a book that might be of interest. This because I am so very fond of David Petersen's writing. Kerasote can't hold a candle to Petersen! He does not enlarge his subject to include any of the larger insights or issues, of which there are many imbedded in the subject of man and nature. From Melville to Petersen, we have struggled to describe and comprehend our relationship to society and nature. Kerasote adds little to the discussion.
Sometimes we need to be wired:
Enjoyed this great little book as I always do Kerasote's writing. I wanted to read it because he had written an article in an outdoor magazine 15 years ago on "Camping Beyond Aid" and I wanted to compare his thoughts then and now. But no matter: while camping "beyond aid" in the wilderness two weeks later, I developed a life-threatening medical condition that required Air Force helicopter evacuation. That sat phone sure would have come in handy.
