Book Reviews - Adotec Gear

Adam Shoalts’ latest expedition memoir, “Where the Falcon Flies,” is a captivating journey through the uncharted territories of the Canadian wilderness. Shoalts expertly guides readers through his perilous adventures with a blend of wit and understated humour that leaves you simultaneously chuckling and shaking your head in disbelief.

In this gripping narrative, Shoalts recounts his ambitious quest to follow the migratory path of the peregrine falcon from Lake Erie to the Torngat Mountains. Armed with little more than a canoe, a map, and a healthy dose of determination, he sets out to navigate from Canada’s most populated areas to some of its most remote. From battling treacherous rapids to facing off against giant container ships, Shoalts paints a vivid picture of the challenges he encountered along the way.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Shoalts’ storytelling is his penchant for downplaying the inherent dangers of his expedition. With a wry sense of humour, he describes facing down cargo ships and navigating through icy waters as if they were mere inconveniences on a Sunday stroll. This humorous understatement serves to both entertain and disarm readers, lulling them into a false sense of security before hitting them with the full force of the adventure’s intensity.

But make no mistake; beneath the layers of humour lies a deep appreciation for the dangers Shoalts faced. His ability to balance lighthearted banter with moments of genuine vulnerability lends the narrative a sense of authenticity that is both refreshing and poignant. As readers follow Shoalts on his quest for discovery, they can’t help but be drawn into the emotional rollercoaster of his journey, from moments of triumph to instances of near disaster.

Yet, despite the inherent risks and the degree to which he must be self-reliant, Shoalts’ gives much gratitude to the many kind people he met along the way who helped by giving food, escort or just a friendly conversation.

Adam Shoalts proves once again why he is one of the foremost voices in adventure literature today. With his unique blend of humour, humility, and heart, he invites readers to join him on a journey through the wilds of Canada unlike any other. Strap in, hold on tight, and get ready to follow where the falcon flies.

As a camping gear start-up company, we’re always on the lookout for inspiration and guidance from those who have successfully navigated the terrain of the outdoor industry. Yvon Chouinard’s “Let My People Go Surfing” offers a refreshing and insightful perspective on business, sustainability, and the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

Chouinard, the founder of Patagonia, shares his journey from humble beginnings as a blacksmith crafting climbing equipment to building one of the most iconic and environmentally-conscious outdoor brands in the world. His storytelling is both candid and compelling, offering valuable lessons learned from decades of experience in the outdoor industry.

One of the most striking aspects of “Let My People Go Surfing” is Chouinard’s unwavering commitment to his values and principles, even in the face of adversity. He challenges conventional business practices and advocates for a more sustainable and ethical approach to commerce, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

For our camping gear start-up, Chouinard’s emphasis on quality, durability, and timeless design resonates deeply. His philosophy of “build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, and use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis” serves as a guiding light as we strive to create gear that not only meets the needs of outdoor enthusiasts but also minimizes our impact on the planet. His statement that “we measure our success on the number of [environmental] threats averted” is indicative of his commitment to these pursuits.

A part that I found especially enlightening was all of the questions that go into defining what “best” means. Chouinard explores the different perspectives and levels of complexity that this simple word evokes. His anecdote about the “best shirt in the world” was such a clarifying moment as a reader. For me, it inspired me to question what our definition of “best” meant and to ensure that we were striving for these goals each day.

In this way, Chouinard’s memoir serves as a blueprint for building a company culture rooted in trust, autonomy, and passion. He breaks down all of the “philosophies” his company adheres to, creating a clear model others can look to for inspiration. For example, in a world where products are now designed to eventually fail, the consideration of “durability” and “reparability” is not only contrary to the practices of most manufacturing companies, but, as a consumer myself, I often find it easier to replace than repair. His statement that “repair is a radical act” and following explanation are simple ideas, but immensely profound in their simplicity.

“Let My People Go Surfing” is a must-read for any aspiring entrepreneur or business leader, especially those in the outdoor industry. Chouinard’s wisdom, humility, and unwavering commitment to his values serve as an inspiring reminder that business can be a force for good in the world—and that success is measured not only by financial metrics but by the positive impact we have on people and the planet.

Book Review “Where the Falcon Flies” by Adam Shoalts

Book Review: “Let My People Go Surfing” by Yvon Chouinard

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