The Radical Radiance of the Fishing Fly

by Lewis K. Schrager

David Nichols never expected to venture into Alaska’s remote wilderness – let alone as a fly fisherman. A medical researcher who prefers logic over unpredictability, David lives in a world of facts ‒ until his brother Larry’s cancer shatters that certainty. Larry endures the misery and danger of his treatments by tying extraordinary fishing flies and imagining northern rivers alive with salmon and rainbow trout. After surviving the treatments, he invites a reluctant David on a fishing adventure in the wilds of Alaska.

As David struggles with Alaska’s harsh beauty alongside his brother and their group of fly-fishing diehards, he finds himself an outsider in this world driven by obsession and passion. Between the brothers, old wounds resurface, while David is drawn to Kathy Sands, a member of their fishing party burdened with her own tragedies. In one extraordinary evening, David must navigate the fine line between emotional bonds and reason as he joins a covert expedition fueled by revenge. In the moonlight, choices emerge, forcing him to confront not only his adversaries but his deepest fears and desires.

In an unforgettable journey, The Radical Radiance of the Fishing Fly offers a powerful examination of family bonds, transformation, and finding meaning in life’s most unpredictable waters.

Genres: Fiction

234 pages, Paperback

Published August 20, 2025

About the author

Lewis K. Schrager is an author and playwright whose short stories have twice earned honors in the F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Contest. His work has appeared in South Carolina Review, Cottonwood, Bryant Literary Review, Colere, Quiddity, South Dakota Review, Southwestern American Literature, Talking River, and Windhover.
His plays, Levy’s Ghost, Shadow of the Valley, and Fourteen Days in July, have been produced in Baltimore, Maryland, and St. Paul, Minnesota.
The Radical Radiance of the Fishing Fly is his first published novel.
A graduate of Johns Hopkins University and the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Schrager earned his Master’s in Writing (fiction concentration) from Johns Hopkins in 2003. In addition to his literary career, he has dedicated much of his professional life to advancing global health, serving as an HIV/AIDS researcher at the U.S. National Institutes of Health and as a vaccine developer focused on tuberculosis prevention.

Reviews

[Maryann B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down as I got attached to the characters within a few pages and needed to know their outcomes. On the surface the story is about a fishing trip in Alask of two brothers and an assortment of travelers and locals. However, it is about much deeper issues: the relationship of two brothers and their misunderstandings, the healing of wounds of body, and of soul, the power of connection between unlikely persons. The writing is beautiful and captivating.

[Charlie Kimble · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two estranged brothers head to Alaska for a fly fishing trip that becomes much more than they bargained for. When Larry's cancer diagnosis forces this uncomfortable reunion, old wounds and lifelong distance threaten to derail everything.

Lewis K. Schrager delivers a gripping wilderness adventure that's really about survival on multiple levels - not just against Alaska's dangerous wildlife, but against the patterns that have kept these brothers apart since childhood. The fishing backdrop gives way to deeper questions about connection, family, and what we'll risk for the people we love.

Perfect for readers who enjoyed "A River Runs Through It" but want something with more edge and psychological complexity. Great book club pick.

Thanks to the publisher for the opportunity to provide an honest review of an advance copy.

[Lori Kaufmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

A luminous, deeply human debut that casts far beyond the world of fly fishing

The Radical Radiance of the Fishing Fly is one of those rare novels that sneaks up on you—quiet at first, almost deceptively straightforward in its setup—but it blooms into something unforgettable.

At its heart, this is a story about two estranged brothers—David, a reserved NIH scientist, and Larry, a brash, larger-than-life cancer survivor—reunited for a backcountry fly-fishing trip in Alaska. But don’t let the gear and rivers fool you: this novel isn’t just about fishing. It’s about memory, mortality, and the fragile threads that tie us to each other when words fail.

Schrager's prose is vivid and precise, with moments of unexpected lyricism. He captures both the majesty of the Alaskan wilderness and the quiet devastations of a hospital room with equal clarity. The fly-fishing scenes are rendered with an almost spiritual attention to detail, even for those of us who wouldn’t know a Chafalote from a Silverback. But what lingers most is the emotional current running beneath it all—the way love, regret, guilt, and grief ripple through these characters like eddies in a stream.

There’s humor here, too, especially in the sharply observed dialogue. The supporting cast is colorful and memorable (Tyler Babcock deserves his own spinoff), and even the tensions between the fishermen and hunters are handled with subtle tension and surprising depth.

Above all, this is a story about making things: flies, memories, peace with the past. Larry’s lovingly crafted box of fishing flies—tied while undergoing brutal cancer treatment—is a metaphor for the whole book: a work of pain, beauty, and quiet resilience.

Highly recommended for fans of Richard Russo, Norman Maclean, or anyone who’s ever had trouble saying “I love you” out loud.

[Romain A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lewis K. Schrager's debut novel takes readers on a transformative journey into the Alaskan wilderness, following David Nichols, a medical researcher whose life is upended by his brother Larry's cancer diagnosis. Larry finds solace in tying fishing flies, a practice that leads the brothers on a life-changing fly-fishing trip to Alaska.

The novel is far more than a simple fishing story; it's a deep exploration of family dynamics, trauma, and the healing power of nature. David, an outsider in the passionate world of fly fishing, navigates the rugged Alaskan landscape while confronting old tensions with his brother. He also finds himself drawn to Kathy Sands, a fellow angler carrying her own grief. This complex interplay of relationships, set against the backdrop of Alaska's harsh beauty, is what truly defines the book. The narrative culminates in a thrilling, moonlit expedition fueled by revenge, forcing David to confront his deepest fears and desires.

Schrager, a scientist and a poet, writes with both precision and an eye for detail, making the wilderness and the characters feel incredibly real. The story masterfully weaves together adventure, emotion, and self-discovery, creating a narrative that "hooks you from the first page and lingers long after the final cast." The book is a testament to the fact that meaning can be found in life’s most unpredictable waters, and it’s a journey worth taking.

[Kim Wilch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was pulled in almost immediately and found myself quickly invested in the characters—I definitely want to see where their stories go next. While it starts as a tale about a fishing trip in Alaska and two brothers who’ve grown apart, it soon reveals much more beneath the surface. This is really a story about family, estrangement, and the gradual process of healing the heart, mind, and soul through human connection.

The prose is striking and immersive. The author brings the intensity and restorative nature of fishing to life in a way that’s compelling even for readers who have never picked up a rod - but may be tempted now. The vivid Alaskan landscape blends effortlessly with quieter, more intimate settings like a hospital room, creating a smooth and powerful narrative flow. There’s a strong emotional thread running throughout—love, remorse, grief, and longing—tempered by moments of humor that help balance the heavier themes. Well done.

[Country Mama · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Radical Radiance of the Fishing Fly by Lewis K. Schrager is a beautiful book about fishing and Alaska. The description in this book is so beautifully written that you can not help but be transported to Alaska and see the story with David. David is our MC who was a medical researcher until he finds out about his brother has cancer, who imagines live as a fly fisherman through treatment. And then Larry gets into remission and decides they need to actually take the trip to Alaska and do the fly fishing that he imagined. The trip is a bonding experience for the brothers, and also opens up old wounds that the two of them went through. This story was such an emotional view of the relationship between siblings and how to take a kind of distant one and turn it into a really close sibling relationship through an adventure in the Alaskan wilderness. I highly recommend this one to fans of great fictional writing along the lines of classic reading!

[Dina Michels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lewis Schrager’s debut novel, “The Radical Radiance of the Fishing Fly,” is a compelling and thoughtful read. It tells the story of two very different brothers who embark on a fly-fishing trip to Alaska that changes both of them and their relationship. Despite my lack of prior interest in the sport, the book’s characters and setting drew me in immediately, and I finished it in almost one sitting. The narrative expertly explores themes of family, healing, and the often-unrealized capabilities within us. It’s a great example of literary fiction that also works as a page-turner, moving with the energy of that remote Alaskan river. Because it’s beautifully written, fun to read, and illuminates our human connections, I would recommend “The Radical Radiance of the Fishing Fly” to any book club.

[Suzann Schiller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprisingly engaging despite my utter lack of knowledge and experience with fly fishing. I couldn't put it down - it has everything: romance, sibling rivalry, and very exciting and adventurous encounters in the wilderness, with both grizzlies and a group of very obnoxious hunters. The tension between the brothers was palpable, as was the conflicted emotions surrounding their complicated past. All of the characters were really well-developed and relatable, and the tenuous relationships among the fishermen deepened through their shared experiences. The book is about reconnection, healing, and opening yourself up to really feel again. A truly satisfying read with a hopeful ending - loved it. Radically radiant indeed.

[Yadin Kaufmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve never gone fly-fishing, and probably never will – but I thoroughly enjoyed The Radical Radiance of the Fishing Fly. The enthusiasm of (most of) the protagonists for their cherished pastime made me want to keep reading - even if it didn't inspire me to go out and buy waders and boots myself.
I found it to be a very well-written, fast-paced and moving tale of an Alaskan outdoor adventure and of brotherly relations, with plenty of drama, wonderful characters and great descriptions. Schrager clearly has a deep understanding of the subjects about which he writes, and an unusual ability to explain them in ways the uninitiated can understand and appreciate.

[Deirdre Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I used to go fly fishing with my father when I was young. Lewis Schrager’s beautiful novel brought back such fond memories of this graceful sport, and is a book to savor for all who love the outdoors. His minutely observed descriptions of the timeless beauty of the Alaskan landscape brings the setting for his story of adventure and romance to life. Schrager is an insightful story-teller and weaves a good fishing tale that is both tender and humorous, but also inspires reflection on the existence of loving but often fractious family relationships, in this case between brothers. A must-read.

[Janet Goldman · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this story of brothers traveling to Alaska for a fly-fishing vacation, the descriptions of characters, sceneries and experiences are so rich and vivid, I felt almost a part of the adventure. The book draws you in from the start, and you just cannot wait to get back to it. Once finished, I felt I knew these people, each of whom came with his/her own story. It brings out the profound impact a seemingly casual decision can have on our lives; and the complexities and potential of our most cherished relationships. This would be a great movie!

[Marc Lieber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read.
Two brothers outward bound for bonding in Alaska. They fish, they camp, one takes up with a woman co-traveller. They interact with big personalities along the way, and they get into a mad-cap adventure. Meanwhile they experience the beauty of Alaska, the river, animals, fish, and outdoor living. Makes we want to have done this trip with them!
I really enjoyed the characters, setting, plot, and the author's writing style. Clean, yet with elegant descriptions of the scenery.

[Rebecca Poutasse · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Radical Radiance of the Fishing Fly is a compelling, touching, and thought-provoking novel exploring grief, connection, hope, and the complexities of familial bonds. The characters are relatable and real, yet their unpredictability keeps the reader engaged throughout. The stunningly detailed depictions of the Alaskan wilderness bring the reader right into the wild scenes — acting as a character in an of itself. I’d highly recommend reading this book!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an enjoyable and memorable read. A touching story, beautifully drawn characters that are distinct and and whose lives, viewpoints and interactions hold your attention and keep you interested in what happens to them. All of this wrought with a light touch that gives the reader enough space to conjure one's own understandings and images of the people, situations and the otherworldly Alaskan wildscape.

[Barbara Leiner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful
Reviewed in the United States on August 28, 2025
This beautifully written book is a story of adventure, family, and daring to shed a familiar identity to rediscover oneself anew. I felt deeply touched, and like the protagonist, unexpected feelings and a sense of new possibilities were evoked within me. Through lyrical depictions of gorgeous Alaska, I traveled through this story with enjoyment from the first word to the last.

[Vladimir Lechtman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an easy and exciting read. Its 250 pages are packed with a psychological drama of a sibling relationship, painful struggle with a deadly disease, beautiful description of Alaska wilderness, a primer on fly fishing, colorful local characters and, of course, romance found where you least expect it, all wrapped in a rapidly developing plot. By the time I finished the last page, I was ready for a sequel. The book could be an excellent movie material.

[FRANK J · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book well worth your time, whether you are a fisherman or not. Along with beautifully constructed scenes on the river, you are taken on a ride that moves quickly, leaving you wanting more at the end.
It's a story of love, adventure, reconciliation, good, bad, evil and retribution.
It reaffirms the beauty of bonds between brothers.
To see it as only a story of fishing trip is limiting.
Read it -you will not be disappointed.

[Marie Cataquet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is about two brothers reconnecting thru an Alaskan fly fishing trip. David is a single research doctor and workaholic. Larry is a successful family man and he took over the family's business. Larry survives cancer and he asks David to join him on the trip. David knows nothing about fishing but he reluctantly agrees. The brothers meets with Wiley a fishing tour guide and a small group of fellow fishers. This book is about rebuilding family bonds and finding meaning in life.

[Lesley Furlong · Rating 5 out of 5]

A motley crew of interesting and believable characters come together and face the challenges of fly fishing and human relationships in the Alaskan wilderness. The vivid descriptions brought me to a wilderness I've only dreamed of seeing. The plot is well-paced and has unexpected twists and turns. I was hooked, and now I want to go fly fishing. An excellent read!

[Brad H · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a fly fisherman I felt the fishing passages captured the intensity of the sport and its transformative powers to soothe the soul. I wanted to be on the river with the group. Having worked with many guides over the years I did enjoy the local color. I would like to see what happens next in life to the three main characters, not to give anything away.

[David Tager · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret River Runs Through It

A fast-paced story that’s filled with beauty, resentment, suspense, conflict and ultimate contentment. Schrager transports you to the picturesque Secret River in Alaska. Given the central relationship of the brothers, The Radical Radiance of the Fishing Fly in ways evokes A River Runs Through It but is very much its own, contemporary tale.

[Sarah Landry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautifully written illustration of the complexity of sibling relationships and the enduring bonds that connect us. The writing was sharp and eloquent and the story engaging. If left me reflecting on my own personal relationships and the complexity of relationships we have with those with whom we share DNA.

[Sheldon Himelfarb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was there. On the soggy banks of the river, in the tent, in the icy water, in the grip of nature’s wonder and the romance of new friends – I was there thanks to the artful storytelling of Lew Schrager. Thank you LS for this superbly enjoyable trip and summer reading crescendo.; I didn’t want it to end.

[Oren Rudavsky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Radical Radiance had me from the opening starting with the fraught relationship with the brother and the unwanted but inevitable trip down the river. Knowing there'd be trouble and a cast of hilarious and complicated characters kept me reading, smiling and biting my nails till the very end. A good read if there ever was one.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great read. I loved watching the relationship of the two brothers and how more and more is revealed as the book progresses. I really felt like I got a taste of what it would be like to be on this adventure with them. I thought about the book during the day and looked forward to reading it each night. Makes a great read!

[Elana · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Radical Radiance of the Fishing Fly was a truly enjoyable read. It is about so much more than fly fishing…I loved how the characters and relationships developed from start to end. Thanks to the beautiful way that Lewis writes, I feel like I took a trip to Alaska and shared in the adventure. I was sad to say goodbye to my “new friends” at the end of the book.

[Amy Wasserman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed The Radical Radiance of the Fishing Fly. Two brother reunite for an Alaskan fly-fishing trip. What starts out as a cordial reunion soon becomes a meaningful joining of souls in an unforgettable adventure. Radical indeed!

[Michael J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book without much knowledge of fishing or Alaska but found that the focus was on human relations and how one deals with the life's problems big and small. The writing made me laugh and almost cry. It is a story that I thoroughly enjoyed and felt enriched for having read it.

[Therearenobadbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

When you think there is a lot of action and you get surprised by the next plot twists, another surprise happens. This has to be the most active, adventurous "fishing plans" I've ever experienced. Has interesting characters. Jump into this one expecting nothing and at the same expecting all.

[Margaret A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful description, fun to read. with some surprising plot twists of a fishing journey into the Alaskan wilderness