Three Against the Wilderness

by E. Collier

Genres: Nonfiction

Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 1966

Reviews

[Wendy]

Another case of life being more interesting than historical fiction. When a person leads an unusual life and can write his story well, what more can you ask? Any Canadian or nature-lover or survivalist will probably appreciate this book.

[Alex E]

If you are interested in learning more about interactions between ecosystems, wildlife and humans (both native and pioneering newcomers), this book is a good one. The author is highly perceptive, perhaps in large part because his and his family's "off grid" survival depends on one's ability to learn from observations within a potentially unforgiving environment. He is a trapper, who must learn quickly in order to both survive, as well as prosper. This book has given me a much greater appreciation of the ecological importance of beaver in drier, forested landscapes.
Likewise, Collier's ability to observe, understand and communicate meaningfully with everyone, including his immediate family, is a big part of what makes this memoir so inspiring.

[Kerri Dunsmore]

Loved this book. Think about it often years after reading it!

[Elisa]

What an amazing book! While reading, I would frequently forget that this was a memoir and not historical fiction. The descriptions were so fun to read. The tranquility and happiness that this family found in the wilderness is inspiring and what they were able to accomplish for conservation and habitat restoration is astounding considering lack of any formal training. Through careful observation and forward thinking, they were able to accomplish so much.

[Ray York]

very much enjoyed this book. brought back memories of when I was a young boy and read many books like this while living with my grandparents on their farm in the early 1950's. No TV just books and a radio on long winter nights.

[Tracee]

Really enjoyed the book, kept my attention. Interesting subject matter of making a go of it in the wilderness. Made me want to try it on my own (well, with someone who is a lot more handy than I am). Some harsh sections, but such is life in the wilderness.

[Monique]

I likes everything about this book, the characters, the real life story, the drama and success stories!

[Luke Peters]

Amazing. What he accomplished, and the way he went about it. Very inspiring. I've loved this book since I was 13.

[Therese]

A book that belonged to my dad from 1959.

[Lee Belbin]

A memorable book about the hardships of living of the land. A mandatory read for the young of any day.

[Caroline]

I loved this book as it was a true story that happened in my home Province. Yes, one couple made a difference to the history of our beautiful B.C. They believed and they worked hard.

[Shana]

I found this book while on my bicycle tour and it has stuck with me. Having lived in cities for several years and then taken to the open road on a bicycle, it was a perfect contrast to read about making a life in the wilderness.

[Gena Lott]

This is a great book about conservation and environmentalism before they were even "things." Set in the Canadian wilderness, this story will truly make you glad for central heating!