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Cold Hands, Warm Heart: Alaskan Adventures of an Iditarod Champion
Known as the Winningest Musher in the World, Jeff King remains one of the top mushers in the history of sled dog sports. Since his first race in 1979, King and his well-trained teams of Alaska huskies have racked up many thousands of training miles and trail hours. The win after win after win, crossing the finish line first in more than a dozen major races, including the two internationally known the Iditarod and the Yukon Quest. In the process, King has also racked up thirty years of first-person stories that offer a glimpse into the heart of a champion, the rugged Alaskan lifestyle, and the charismatic world of dogs.
272 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2008
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235 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
November 7, 2016
I bought this book when on my trip to Alaska back in July. We visited the Husky Homestead where Jeff King, who has won the Iditarod four times does a tour. I was worried it was going to be one of those cheesy tourist traps, but the flyer said we could hold puppies and well...that sold me :) It ended up being a very interesting tour and I learned about raising sled dogs and the guy doing the presentation was very funny. The dogs just love to run and it's obvious - he said that the dogs just don't care if you fall off the sled - they'll keep running until the next check point and then turn around to see if you held on! I also liked that he credited the dogs with being extraordinary athletes and the musher is the coach, cook, and caretaker. I was intrigued and bought the book, hoping to learn more.
The book has lots of interesting information about racing sled dogs and living in Alaska - I would have loved more on Jeff's innovations (he built a better sled, a heater for his handle bar, etc...) for the races and more on the race itself - and this was the expanded edition. It's a good read and there are plenty of color photos. If you're interested in living in Alaska and what it takes to race in the Iditarod, then this is a great book. It also helped that I was warm and snuggled in my comfy bed when reading about his adventures in the cold and wind!
The book has lots of interesting information about racing sled dogs and living in Alaska - I would have loved more on Jeff's innovations (he built a better sled, a heater for his handle bar, etc...) for the races and more on the race itself - and this was the expanded edition. It's a good read and there are plenty of color photos. If you're interested in living in Alaska and what it takes to race in the Iditarod, then this is a great book. It also helped that I was warm and snuggled in my comfy bed when reading about his adventures in the cold and wind!
May 2, 2024
This book will always be treasured by me and my family. We purchased it at Jeff King’s “Husky Homestead”, where he autographed it personally to my two young sons, back in 2012.
I loved reading about Jeff’s sled- dog-racing adventures, related through his eyes and voice. The 14th chapter, about his dog Peg’s insatiable appetite, had me laughing out loud! And, I had a huge lump in my throat after reading the chapter about C.J. and the Make-a-Wish Foundation.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in sled-dog racing!
I loved reading about Jeff’s sled- dog-racing adventures, related through his eyes and voice. The 14th chapter, about his dog Peg’s insatiable appetite, had me laughing out loud! And, I had a huge lump in my throat after reading the chapter about C.J. and the Make-a-Wish Foundation.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in sled-dog racing!
March 27, 2022
Wow, what a great book. Books about dog sledding are my favorites and this is definitely a great one. Instead of having a long part of the book on one race, this one is organized loosely on a topic. The stories are just amazing. On top of that, this book has the clearest best pictures of him and his team.
The book goes into his history and the kind of person who would live out in a tent in the Alaska wilderness for 3 months in the winter. It goes into the great detail on a few of the dogs. There are stories of amazing close encounters where he came out still alive to tell the tale. There is one about his brush with Hollywood, (well a TV commercial but it is a great story). His start with the make a wish foundation. And a story about his run in with the Feds. My outline doesn't do it justice, so just read the book.
The book goes into his history and the kind of person who would live out in a tent in the Alaska wilderness for 3 months in the winter. It goes into the great detail on a few of the dogs. There are stories of amazing close encounters where he came out still alive to tell the tale. There is one about his brush with Hollywood, (well a TV commercial but it is a great story). His start with the make a wish foundation. And a story about his run in with the Feds. My outline doesn't do it justice, so just read the book.
October 26, 2021
I live in the same area as Jeff, so he is well known for his racing and dogs (Husky Homestead). I enjoyed this book about my "neighbor." It tells the story about Jeff’s pull to come to Alaska and to enter the charismatic world of sled dogs, and of course all the insane adventures that come from racing over the years. My husband & I went dogsledding last winter for the first time last winter, and it certainly is a thrill, but more than anything, it only reinforced the mad respect I have for mushers. I cannot fathom standing on the back of a dogsled for 1,100 mile across the Alaskan wilderness in 50 below temps against anabatic and katabotic winds … but I love reading about it from the comfort of my cabin.
January 26, 2018
Someone suggested I read this Alaskan book, and the title caught my attention. I truly did not expect to love it. The stories were exciting, funny, somewhat scary, and inspiring. This really gives the reader an inside story of racing with Alaskan Huskies, and does it quite well. After reading this, I can’t even imagine being outside in -50 degree weather. And I loved the addition of photos and a map. This is a great book to read while sitting by a warm fire contemplating a summer trip to Alaska.
March 21, 2019
Collection of short stories by 4 time Iditarod champion Jeff King. I'm very interested in dog sledding and this book was very insightful.
January 14, 2021
In summer 2020 we visited Denali and spent a morning at the Husky Homestead and it was fascinating to learn about mushing and all that it entails. We felt especially lucky to hear directly from Jeff King about his experiences dog sledding in all of the major races and to get the chance to snuggle those Alaskan Husky puppies! I'd highly recommend a visit if you ever find yourself in the Denali area.
Reading this book was a great follow up to that visit, although it would have been helpful to read it before visiting too so I was a little more familiar with what I was going to see and learn!
I'd love to read a follow up book someday--I believe this one was written over 10 years ago and it would be cool to hear how Jeff's life has changed and his mushing experiences evolved since this was published.
Reading this book was a great follow up to that visit, although it would have been helpful to read it before visiting too so I was a little more familiar with what I was going to see and learn!
I'd love to read a follow up book someday--I believe this one was written over 10 years ago and it would be cool to hear how Jeff's life has changed and his mushing experiences evolved since this was published.
June 12, 2009
Having just returned from Alaska and a visit to the King's Husky Homestead, this book's exciting tales of Jeff's Iditarod experiences and his warm love of his sled dogs is a wonderful read. Accompanied by his wife, Donna's, beautiful water color pictures, it is a book that you will want to return to more than once. Also would be a great book for young adults.
December 27, 2020
I definitely recommend visiting the Husky Homestead, if you ever find yourself up in Denali National Park. It is a fascinating experience, and you get to hold the Alaskan husky puppies :)
February 22, 2018
This is one of the best books I've read about the Iditarod and other sled-racing in Alaska. King is a surprisingly good writer (no doubt also had some excellent editors) and a wonderful storyteller. As a California transplant, former trapper, 4-time winner of the 1,150 mile Iditarod and a man often called the "winningest" racer in Alaska for numerous wins of other long-distance races such as the Yukon Quest, he has a great deal of literal and metaphorical mileage in the field and many fun, harrowing, heart-breaking, and uplifting tales to tell.
My only disappointment with this book is that I really wanted to hear more details about various episodes in his Iditarod races. Only a couple of the chapters are devoted to this, and I missed the stories about the adventures and competition through race checkpoints on the Iditarod trail. But other unexpected stories, such as the chapter on Norman Vaughn or the young child with cancer who, through the Make-a-Wish foundation and the support of King's sponsor Cabella's, became King's companion for the start of his winning 2006 race, were fascinating. That King would make space for these exceptional people in a memoir where most folks would talk only about themselves speaks loudly for his respect and admiration for others who have contributed to his growth not only as a musher but also as a human being.
My only disappointment with this book is that I really wanted to hear more details about various episodes in his Iditarod races. Only a couple of the chapters are devoted to this, and I missed the stories about the adventures and competition through race checkpoints on the Iditarod trail. But other unexpected stories, such as the chapter on Norman Vaughn or the young child with cancer who, through the Make-a-Wish foundation and the support of King's sponsor Cabella's, became King's companion for the start of his winning 2006 race, were fascinating. That King would make space for these exceptional people in a memoir where most folks would talk only about themselves speaks loudly for his respect and admiration for others who have contributed to his growth not only as a musher but also as a human being.
March 4, 2013
Cold Hands, Warm Heart by Jeff King is a collection of autobiographical anecdotes by the four-time champion of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Jeff tells how his love of the outdoors and longing for adventure led him from a childhood in California wine country to Alaska. Living and working in and near Denali National Park, he realized his dream of working a trap line and running dog teams. His love for his dogs shines through every chapter. Jeff describes challenges he faced when he chose to live in the wild as well as when he began racing, and the rigor and dangers of the Yukon Quest and the Iditarod. He shares terrifying moments on the trail with his team, tragic losses, and the lasting inspiration he gained from his first Make-A-Wish Idita-Rider. Each chapter stands alone, so you can savor this book slowly and over time, like repeat visits to a friend. The illustrations are by Jeff’s wife, Donna Gates King. Foreword and chapter notes are by Joe Runyan, fellow Iditarod and Quest champion. A must read for Iditarod fans.
For more information about Jeff King and his dogs, visit his website: www.huskyhomestead.com.
To learn more about the Iditarod: www.iditarod.com
To learn more about the Yukon Quest: www.yukonquest.org
For more information about Jeff King and his dogs, visit his website: www.huskyhomestead.com.
To learn more about the Iditarod: www.iditarod.com
To learn more about the Yukon Quest: www.yukonquest.org
August 24, 2018
I had the great fortune to travel to Alaska about a year ago. I found it to be the most beautiful place in the world. On the anniversary of my trip, I find myself missing Alaska; prompting me to pick up four-time Iditarod champion, Jeff King's book, Cold Hands, Warm Heart.
Visiting Jeff King's Husky Homestead was one of the most memorable experiences of my trip. I learned so much about this sport and Jeff King's experiences, but was eager to learn more.
I expected to like this book a great deal, but I'm ecstatic to say I absolutely loved it and devoured this book. Jeff King recounts various adventures and misadventures of his life with his awesome sense of humor. I laughed and I cried. I was moved and exhilarated. I learned a lot. Any book that can do all that is truly a winner. Jeff King writes in such a vivid manner, I felt like I was along on the trail with him. A thoroughly enjoyable reading experience.
Visiting Jeff King's Husky Homestead was one of the most memorable experiences of my trip. I learned so much about this sport and Jeff King's experiences, but was eager to learn more.
I expected to like this book a great deal, but I'm ecstatic to say I absolutely loved it and devoured this book. Jeff King recounts various adventures and misadventures of his life with his awesome sense of humor. I laughed and I cried. I was moved and exhilarated. I learned a lot. Any book that can do all that is truly a winner. Jeff King writes in such a vivid manner, I felt like I was along on the trail with him. A thoroughly enjoyable reading experience.
December 17, 2018
I visited Jeff King's Husky Homestead in July. The man puts on a great show - he seems as skilled in business as he is at raising and running dogs. I bought this book as a gift for my dad, who loves animals and dogs in particular and might enjoy King's adventures. The stories are amusing and charming, if a little self-reverential. King does a great job of expressing the rugged, tenacious Alaskan spirit. 3.5 stars.
December 31, 2018
Had the pleasure of visiting Husky Homestead this past summer and got to hear Jeff King tell some of these stories in person. When I heard there was a book, of course I had to purchase it. This was full of great stories from the Alaskan wilderness, and Jeff's life as a sled dog racing legend. I loved reading about his life and the lessons he has learned over the years. He has a great way of telling stories, and always reveals some deeper meaning by the end.
July 8, 2017
I bought this book when I visited the Husky Homestead. Jeff King was a delightful speaker with a dry sense of humor. His book was the same and didn't disappoint. I learned a lot about a sport that barely registered with me living in the south. Now I can't wait to follow the Iditarod race in 2018!
August 25, 2019
What a wonderful read. This is filled with so many stories from Jeff King and his beloved huskies. I loved every minute of this great read. We got to meet Jeff on his Husky Homestead tour in Alaska a few weeks ago. What amazing accounts!
February 3, 2020
A grand adventure! So many great stories about life I Alaska and as a world class musher. It was great to hear these stories with Jeff's voice. I'm looking forward to streaming the Iditarod this March.
August 21, 2017
This is a fantastic book if you want insight on living in Alaska, beginning and sustaining a sled dog team, and all of the heartwarming as well as heartbreaking events that occurred along the way.
September 20, 2017
I got this book on a recent Alaskan cruise for my son who loves huskies. Fascinating man and his story.
January 22, 2020
Jeff King recounts some wonderful stories of growing up with a life dedicated to sled dogs....
March 21, 2020
This brought back happy memories of our trip to Alaska in 2015 when we visited Jeff King's Husky Homestead.
June 17, 2021
Amazing stories.
This book has the feeling of just sitting down with the author and listening to him tell stories, and I loved it.
This book has the feeling of just sitting down with the author and listening to him tell stories, and I loved it.
July 24, 2024
Most of us think we know something about Alaska. I went to Alaska with one side of my family to see the place in July. Yes, it’s beautiful and fun.
Author Jeff King lives through 12 months of Alaska. And he gives us a good piece of information about what the country and, even better, some of the history of what Alaska became a national part of the USA.
The book doesn’t walk us through how the area has become a part of the USA. The book gives out what it’s like the life is and how any person would have to work. And it’s clear that most of the people there want to be there.
The book gives a powerful reason why we want to see Alaska in many of the pages. And they are very good in full color.
Author Jeff King lives through 12 months of Alaska. And he gives us a good piece of information about what the country and, even better, some of the history of what Alaska became a national part of the USA.
The book doesn’t walk us through how the area has become a part of the USA. The book gives out what it’s like the life is and how any person would have to work. And it’s clear that most of the people there want to be there.
The book gives a powerful reason why we want to see Alaska in many of the pages. And they are very good in full color.
October 24, 2024
While planning a trip to Alaska several years ago my sister and I saw an advertisement for "Husky Homestead." It was close to Denali and learning about the Iditarod and raising huskies sounded cool, so we signed up. It turned out to be one of the highlights of our visit to that amazing state! The pups are adorable and the demonstrations are very interesting, but the the star of the show is Jeff King himself ... a born performer! I bought the book and had him sign it and as I read I could hear his voice and see the mischievous smile that is a permanent fixture on his face. The stories are exciting and touching and some quite unbelievable. I started the book and could not put it down. King is an amazing champion in his own right and a darn good storyteller!
August 5, 2024
Janet and I picked up this book on our trip to Alaska and to Husky Homestead, right outside of Denali.
It is the life story of a true outdoorsman, Jeff King. We did visit this place, met the dogs, some of his family members, Jeff himself, as part of our land tour through Viking.
As much as I admire his life and his stories, I would not be able to live like this. But, he is a true pioneer to this area, and a true fixture of the Iditarod race and the munching world in general.
His Alaskan Husky dogs were remarkable to see and hold.
Good read, it will give you the real flavor of,Irving in rural Alaska.
It is the life story of a true outdoorsman, Jeff King. We did visit this place, met the dogs, some of his family members, Jeff himself, as part of our land tour through Viking.
As much as I admire his life and his stories, I would not be able to live like this. But, he is a true pioneer to this area, and a true fixture of the Iditarod race and the munching world in general.
His Alaskan Husky dogs were remarkable to see and hold.
Good read, it will give you the real flavor of,Irving in rural Alaska.
August 30, 2022
I visited Husky Homestead on a recent trip to Denali National Park - and got to talk to Jeff King and go on the tour of HH and cuddle with an Alaskan Husky! I learned so much and this was one of the highlights of my trip! So reading the book gave me so much more insight and history to what I saw. I had no idea of any thing about Sled Dogs and Alaskan Huskies or Mushers before. It's not only a "sport" but a way of Alaskan life before snowmobiles and the comradery and care of the racers is amazing. Loved the book and learned SO much! Thank You Jeff and your team at Husky Homestead!
August 1, 2025
If you want to either know what it is like to run a team of dogs in the Iditarod or what it is like to live in Alaska, this book is for you. Full of wonderful stories about the people and the race, each story reaches a point where you cannot put it down. I laughed, I cried, and I appreciated the difficulties and wonders of both Alaska and the dog sled and dogs that pulled it. Jeff King really pulls you into his life and the lives of the people around him.
September 3, 2022
I have just returned from AK and was lucky enough to visit The Husky Homestead and listen to Jeff and Cali. Also loved getting to meet the pups! This book is as not only beautiful because of the paintings but also told the beautiful story of life in Alaska. So happy I bought this when I was done here! Amazing! I will be excited to follow the Iditarod this March!
September 27, 2022
One of the stops we really enjoyed on our Alaska trip was the Husky Homestead outside of Denali. Jeff King is a great storyteller! We bought his book while we were there, and this has additional stories about dog sled racing and about his life in Alaska. A fun read, especially since we heard him talk and his voice was in my head as I read.
September 10, 2023
After visiting husky homestead in Denali Alaska, I knew Jeff's book would have at least one pup cross the rainbow bridge... dogs don't live forever.
But man did Hickory have me sobbing. While the book had me ugly crying to my dog in the middle of the night, hearing about Jeff's love for his dogs and their adventures together really warms my heart.
But man did Hickory have me sobbing. While the book had me ugly crying to my dog in the middle of the night, hearing about Jeff's love for his dogs and their adventures together really warms my heart.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews