John J. Rowlands (–1976)

Cache Lake Country (1947) won the National Outdoor Book Award in the classic category. I'd never heard of it before but having had previous success with nature/outdoor books published in or about the 1940s (Northern Nurse, A Sand County Almanac, Shantyboat) this did not disappoint. They are books my grandparents generation wrote. Gentle and wise and unconcerned with existential crisis. It is a happy-place one can retreat to when all appears gloom.

n.b. I listed to the audiobook but am sure this is not the ideal media as the book contains many illustrations (I hear) which would increase it's value not only as a memoir but practical bushcraft guidebook allowing one to recreate a little northern woods wherever you are.… (mere)

This is a fantastic read for anyone who enjoys making things or being in the outdoors. Author Rowlands and illustrator Kane live near a lake in upper Canada and the book takes you from January to December of one year. Each chapter covers one month and is chockful of interesting facts about animal habits, plants, weather, and a variety of natural foods and recipes. The most fascinating component of this book are all the things that Rowlands, Kane, and Indian chief Tibeash make around their cabins. Kane's illustrations are clear enough so that you can copy their plans for slow cookers, moccasins, and many other odds and ends from fish lures to an ice boat!

I had never heard of this book before I received it last December but it has quickly become one of the most enjoyable books I've ever read and I am looking forward to giving copies to others who I know would enjoy it as much as I have.… (mere)