When I first heard our assignment was to read this book, it didn't really appeal to me...I thought, how much can you write about canoeing the Columbia River anyway? It just seemed it would be one big, long, boring story about canoeing and "guy stuff." I enjoy a good adventure and the book cover showed some promise, but I certainly didn't share the same level of appreciation for canoeing as Robin Cody...until now.

I must admit the first part of the book was a bit too much for my taste, although it did hit some high points when Robin had to navigate through rough water and wind conditions as well as the dams and locks. However, the anecdotal details about where to pitch the tent, the camping conditions, creepy critters, etc. left me less than inspired to read on. In fact, it took me twice as...