In 'The Survival of the Bark Canoe,' John McPhee embarks on a captivating journey through the art and tradition of constructing bark canoes in North America. He intertwines history, culture, and personal anecdotes, revealing how this ancient craft is at risk of vanishing. As he immerses himself in both the craftsmanship and the significance of these canoes, readers discover the profound connection between people and nature. McPhee's narrative is rich with insight, inviting readers to reflect on sustainability and heritage. Will this time-honored skill endure, or will it drift into obscurity?
By John McPhee
Published: 1982
"The bark canoe is not just a vessel; it is a testament to the ingenuity of those who shaped it from the trees and waters of their world."
In Greenville, New Hampshire, a small town in the southern part of the state, Henri Vaillancourt makes birch-bark canoes in the same manner and with the same tools that the Indians used. The Survival of the Bark Canoe is the story of this ancient craft and of a 150-mile trip through the Maine woods in those graceful survivors of a prehistoric technology. It is a book squarely in the tradition of one written by the first tourist in these woods, Henry David Thoreau, whose The Maine Woods recounts similar journeys in similar vessel. As McPhee describes the expedition he made with Vaillancourt, he also traces the evolution of the bark canoe, from its beginnings through the development of the huge canoes used by the fur traders of the Canadian North Woods, where the bark canoe played the key role in opening up the wilderness. He discusses as well the differing types of bark canoes, whose construction varied from tribe to tribe, according to custom and available materials. In a style as pure and as effortless as the waters of Maine and the glide of a canoe, John McPhee has written one of his most fascinating books, one in which his talents as a journalist are on brilliant display.
Showing 8 of 28 similar books
Scott Young is an entrepreneur, author, and learning expert, best known for his work in accelerated learning and self-education. Young gained recognition for completing MIT’s computer science curriculum in one year through self-study, an experiment he documented in his book Ultralearning. He advocates for a systematic, focused approach to learning new skills, and his work has inspired people to take on ambitious projects in fields like coding, languages, and creative arts. Young writes extensively on productivity, cognitive science, and learning techniques, sharing strategies for mastering complex subjects quickly. His approach to education has made him a prominent figure in the world of self-improvement and personal development.
Mike Phillips is a distinguished British author and journalist, best known for his groundbreaking crime fiction series featuring black detective Sam Dean. Born in Guyana and raised in London, Phillips has significantly contributed to the portrayal of black British experiences in literature. His debut novel, "Blood Rights," received critical acclaim and solidified his reputation as a formidable voice in crime writing. Beyond fiction, Phillips has also made substantial contributions to journalism and academia, notably co-authoring "Windrush: The Irresistible Rise of Multi-Racial Britain," which chronicles the experiences of Caribbean immigrants in the UK. His work has not only entertained but also provided profound social commentary, earning him a lasting place in contemporary British literature.
Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.
Bret Victor is a renowned American interface designer and computer scientist celebrated for his innovative contributions to interactive design and human-computer interaction. He is best known for creating dynamic, explorable explanations, which have significantly influenced the way educational content is presented and understood. Victor's seminal work, "Inventing on Principle," advocates for the integration of immediate feedback in creative processes, inspiring a new wave of interactive programming environments. As a former member of the Apple Human Interface team, he played a pivotal role in shaping modern user interfaces. Through his organization, Dynamicland, Victor continues to explore and expand the boundaries of immersive, collaborative computing environments.
Marc Andreessen is an American entrepreneur, software engineer, and venture capitalist, best known for co-creating the Mosaic web browser, the first widely-used web browser, and co-founding Netscape. Andreessen is also the co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent venture capital firms, where he invests in groundbreaking technology companies like Facebook, Airbnb, and Coinbase. He is a thought leader on the impact of technology and innovation, often sharing his views on the future of the internet and startups. His contributions to the development of the web and the tech ecosystem have made him one of the most influential figures in technology.
Ray Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world. He is also the author of the bestselling book Principles, where he outlines his philosophy on life, leadership, and investing. Ray is renowned for his unique approach to transparency, radical truth, and thoughtful disagreement within organizations. His insights into economics and investing have made him one of the most influential figures in the financial world. Dalio continues to be a thought leader in business, economics, and philanthropy.
Vinod Khosla is an Indian-American venture capitalist and co-founder of Sun Microsystems, one of the companies that helped drive the development of the internet. Khosla is the founder of Khosla Ventures, a venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage investments in technology and energy. He is known for his bold approach to investing, often backing companies working on breakthrough technologies in areas like renewable energy, healthcare, and artificial intelligence. Khosla is a vocal advocate for using technology to solve some of the world’s biggest problems. His visionary approach to investing has made him one of the most influential figures in Silicon Valley.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Showing 8 of 24 related collections
“The bark canoe is not just a vessel; it is a testament to the ingenuity of those who shaped it from the trees and waters of their world.”
The Survival of the Bark Canoe
By John McPhee
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
John McPhee is an acclaimed American author and journalist, known for his masterful narrative nonfiction and intricate storytelling. Born on March 8, 1931, he has penned numerous influential works, including 'Coming into the Country,' 'The Control of Nature,' and 'Annals of the Former World,' which won the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography in 1999. McPhee's writing often emphasizes detailed research, vivid prose, and a deep sense of place, reflecting his keen interest in human interaction with the natural world. His ability to merge personal narrative with larger themes has made him a significant figure in contemporary literature.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Lessons of History," Will and Ariel Durant distill the sweeping narrative of human civilization into profound insights that span cultures and epochs. They explore the recurring themes of war, economics, religion, and human nature that shape our collective journey. With razor-sharp clarity, the Durants argue that the past holds invaluable lessons that can guide our present and future decisions. What patterns emerge when we closely examine the ebb and flow of societies? This thought-provoking work invites readers to reflect on the intricacies of humanity's story and consider how we might navigate the path ahead.
In 'The Sovereign Individual,' Davidson and Rees-Mogg explore the profound transformation of society in the face of digital technology and globalization. They argue that these changes are reshaping the balance of power between individuals and the state, leading to a future where personal sovereignty becomes paramount. As they dissect the implications of these shifts, the authors provoke thought on how one can thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. With bold predictions and insightful analysis, their work challenges traditional norms and beckons a new era of freedom and opportunity. Are we ready to embrace our own sovereignty in this new world?
In 'Identity Designed,' David Airey takes readers on a captivating journey through the art and science of branding. This visually stunning book showcases a rich collection of global identities, revealing the strategies behind their creation. Airey delves into the psychological impact of design, urging readers to think deeply about how branding shapes perceptions. With insightful case studies and expert commentary, it sparks curiosity about the essence of identity in modern culture. Perfect for designers and entrepreneurs alike, this book invites you to explore the power of visual storytelling in building a brand.
No summary available
'Why Fonts Matter' by Sarah Hyndman explores the profound impact typography has on our perceptions and emotions. Through captivating anecdotes and engaging visuals, the author uncovers the hidden messages behind different fonts. Readers will discover how the style of lettering can influence everything from branding to personal identity. This insightful journey into the world of type challenges us to consider the power of design in our daily lives. Are you ready to see the written word in an entirely new light?
In 'Cranford', Elizabeth Gaskell paints a vivid portrait of a small English town in the early 19th century, revealing the quirky charm and complexities of its residents. Through the eyes of the observant Mary Smith, readers are drawn into the lives, loves, and rivalries of Cranford's predominantly female populace. The novel delves into themes of friendship, social class, and the evolving role of women in society. With its rich characterizations and gentle humor, Gaskell invites us to ponder what truly defines a community. Will the traditions of Cranford withstand the pressures of change, or will progress reshape its quaint existence forever?
In 'A History of the Wife', Marilyn Yalom unveils the often-overlooked narratives of women throughout history, exploring the evolution of marriage and the roles of wives in society. Through a blend of historical analysis and personal anecdotes, Yalom reveals the complex dynamics between love, obligation, and identity. Readers journey through various cultures and time periods, witnessing the shifting expectations placed on wives. This illuminating work challenges conventional views on marriage, inviting reflection on contemporary relationships. A must-read for anyone curious about how the past influences the present in the realm of love and partnership.
In 'Coyote America,' Dan Flores unveils the fascinating journey of the coyote, a resilient survivor in the face of human encroachment. The book intertwines history, ecology, and personal anecdotes to reveal the coyote's adaptability and unique role in American culture. Flores challenges our perceptions of this misunderstood creature, inviting readers to explore its complex relationship with humanity. Through rich storytelling, he illuminates the broader themes of nature's resilience and our responsibility in preserving it. Dive into a narrative that transforms the way we see one of North America's most iconic animals.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
