Side Canyons

Four women enjoy a new-found friendship and the beginning of an adventure. But a man enters the picture, and the majestic surroundings lose their significance for some of the participants, as Laurie learns first hand when her innocent friendly gesture is misinterpreted and the harmony of female camaraderie crumbles. Astounded, Laurie finds herself accused in rivalry that she has no part of. For me, the complex and emotional relationships and the vivid images of the canyon made "Side Canyons" a delightful reading.

In their mid forties, the two college friends Angie and Laurie agree to go rafting on the Colorado through the Grand Canyon. Angie is the catalyst behind the trip as Laurie, although unhappy, has doubts about the venture. She does not want to hurt her taciturn rancher spouse John by going off after just returning from a trip. Also joining them on the trip are Ava, Helen, and Gina. At the Grand Canyon, Robb is the guide that will take the women on their voyage down the rapids. Shockingly, Laurie freed from matrimony bonds even temporarily, flirts outrageously with the younger handsome hunk while the others take in the adventures of a fabulous nine day escapade. SIDE CANYONS is based on a real account of a woman who made the trek. The descriptions of the rafting bring out the beauty of nature while also forging a tight sisterly relationship between the women. Though the inclusion of poetry and other asides add to the feel of a journal, those entries also seems intrusive as it slows down the trip on the Colorado River. It is when the individuals ponder life in front of the grand scale of nature that fans will appreciate a fine expedition. Harriet Klausner