Paddle to the Amazon: The Ultimate 12,000-Mile Canoe Adventure

One of the best adventure stories ever written. And oh yeah it’s a true story. The many and varied things that happen to Don Starkell and his son are unforgettable. There are so many memorable moments. It’s amazing to think that Starkell had this crazy idea - AND HE PULLED IT OFF. This is a book that you’ll come back to again and again. I’ve read it at least three times.

It's been over two years since I've read this book and I still think about it! This is definitely a MUST READ for any adventure enthusiast. What a fantastic way to learn about geography and the world around you. My 14-year-old read this book in two days. Imagine paddling from Canada, down the Mississippi river and out into the ocean. And boy, when the Starkell's reach the Gulf of Mexico, the adventure gets even better! Their experiences were fascinating, harrowing and enviably exciting! I hated to reach the last page. This is one of those books that I plan to reread! * * * * * FIVE STARS!

Regards to intimacy -The intimacy of a Father and Son on such an excursion becomes quite deep. -The circle of such people to accomplish such a grand task is limited to (I know of no one in historical fact doing such as this) -Written with candid and honest approach -100% believable -Honored to have an opportunity into windows of rare. Regards to Action -(1 word) Unlimited If the above hasn't said it in other words. I'll frankly say it. This is a must read for ones whom enjoy adventure of travels.I safely say I will never create an opportunity imbark on such, So this is the Very Next Thing to Being There!!

This is the story of Don Starkell's incredible 12,000 mile canoe Trip from Canda to Brazil using various river systems and unfortunately a lot of dangerous coastline. A journey he started with his two sons, Dana and Jeff. Starkell says at the beginning of this book "If I'd known we were going to make it, the challenge would not have been the same." We, as the readers, of course know that he does complete his voyage - but it is by no means either straight forward or easy and in fact it contains many twists of fate along the way. I was quite surprised at just how good this book is - not just the story of the trip, but the writing. It is quite matter of fact and Don spares few punches about either his own behaviour or that of his sons. It is told mostly through what seem to be edited diary entries, there are good number of maps - each chapter has its own small map which makes following their physical progress much simpler. A very worthwhile and adventuresome read.

This book is not about a nice long relaxing canoe trip on serene waters. Although Starkell and his boys DO have some quiet carefree times...the majority of this trip includes an astounding amount of obstacles that very very people would chose to endure. Numerous problems arise from the natural world...but the most frightening adventures are the frustrations and threats that the Starkells recieve from their fellow man.This is an amazing book and a must read for any canoe tripper. Also, anyone interested in true life adventure stories will surely not be disappointed. It's a gripping tale from start to finish. It's also a feat that will probably never be attempted again.The only big question I have after reading this book is..Why hasn't someone made this gem into a movie? With all the twist and turns you'd think it would be a great candidate for the big screen.

A true story not likely to be repeated by anyone. I'll never go canoeing again without thinking of this book.