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The Survival of the Bark Canoe
114 pages, 1982
In Greenville, New Hampshire, a small town in the southern part of the state, Henri Vaillancourt makes birchbark canoes in the same manner and with the same tools that the Indians used. In The Survival of the Bark Canoe, McPhee tells the story of this ancient craft and details a 150-mile trip through the Maine woods in those graceful survivors of prehistoric technology.
As he describes his expedition with Vaillancourt, McPhee also traces the evolution of the bark canoe, from its beginnings through the development of huge canoes used by fur traders in Canada's North Woods; where these vessels played a key role in opening up wilderness areas.
In The Survival of the Bark Canoe, John McPhee takes us on a journey that highlights the beauty and intricacy of canoe craftsmanship. He shows us that creating a bark canoe is not just a process, but an art form that requires patience, skill, and a deep understanding of nature.
McPhee's book encourages us to reconnect with nature. He paints a vivid picture of the wilderness, making us feel as if we're right there with him on his canoeing adventure. It's a reminder of the peace and tranquility that can be found away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
The Survival of the Bark Canoe is a testament to the importance of preserving traditional skills and knowledge. McPhee's detailed account of the canoe-making process shows us that these age-old techniques are still relevant and valuable today.
McPhee's storytelling skills are on full display in this book. He weaves together personal anecdotes, historical facts, and technical details in a way that's engaging and easy to understand. It's a great example of how a good story can make even the most complex topics accessible.
The book gives us a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Native American tribes who originally developed the bark canoe. It's a reminder of the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures and their contributions to our shared history.
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