"The River of Doubt", by Candice Millard, is a well-written factual account of a little known but highly significant adventure undertaken by Theodore Roosevelt.  A few months after his failed attempt to gain the presidency for the 3rd time (running for the Bullmoose Party; he BEAT the Republicans & effectively put Woodrow Wilson into office), Teddy Roosevelt sought to alleviate his depression by becoming the first explorer ever to navigate & map a nearly 1000 mile, completely unknown, rapids-choked tributary of the Amazon River.  Cannibals, murder, starvation - you name it - these folks were put through the wringer!  

This is a first-class adventure story.  I haven't enjoyed a "history" so much since I read one of the better accounts about Ernest Shackleton ("Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Adventure" by Alfred Lansing).  In fact, it's hard to believe that such a tale about an ex-President of the United States has remained so obscure.

If you're looking for a good wilderness adventure to read to brighten up your winter, THIS is it!  

Jimbo  

Sca-ish, Mr. Evinrude and I will put it on our winter reading list. 

Thanks for the suggestion

WR

Jimbo Thanks,
I just finished the book it is a well written (IMO), I found it hard to put down. It makes my forays into the backcountry seem like I've been visiting a Country Club. Anyone up for a trip down The Rio Roosevelt?

flp

I just finished reading River of Doubt, was going to post about it but found it via a search of the site...
Very interesting throughout and a captivating adventure story which I recommend for anyone who likes to read about adverse camping/canoeing  escapades.  I am glad I camp in the northern latitudes and NOT in the Amazon jungle!  IC

Jimbo wrote on Nov 13^th, 2008 at 4:30pm:


Unfortunately for America, the only "Rough Riders" they have in Washington these days are the Senators that hang out in the men's bathroom stalls