Beaver Coats and Guns: The Adventures of Radisson and Des Groseilliers

by Richard Lapointe

Many know the names Pierre-Esprit Radisson and Medard Chouart des Groseilliers, but few have heard the adventures that turned two humble fur traders into influential and powerful businessmen, explorers, and pioneers. Now, discover the incredible early experiences of Radisson and des Groseilliers as they encounter hostile native tribes, corrupt governors, and unforgiving wilderness, all threatening to end their story before it even begins. In 1652, Pierre was a sixteen-year-old living in New France. His life is derailed when Iroquois raiders abduct him and bring him back to their village to be tortured and executed. Only the request of a grieving village mother saves him, and Pierre is accepted into the tribe, adopted by the chief, and trained in the ways of an Iroquois warrior. Pierre's new education provides a vital bridge between Western culture and native tradition. After Pierre manages to escape from the tribe, he uses his skills to build a new life for himself. In partnership with his brother-in-law, Medard, Pierre embarks on an expedition to locate and buy a large store of beaver pelts, which they hope to sell at an enormous profit. Follow these two men on their spectacular adventure-the entire New World is waiting!

248 pages, Paperback

Published January 17, 2017

Reviews

[Clay Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great tale about men having adventures on the North American continent during the 1600's.

[Glen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this book in a goodreads drawing.

A French pioneer in 16 century Quebec is captured by Indians and becomes one of them for a while. This part of the book is actually quite interesting as he assimilates into the new nation.

Then he goes back to the French and the book starts to drag.

Not bad, but i liked the first part a lot better.

[Bruce Cable · Rating 5 out of 5]

French Origin of the Hudson Bay Compsny

This is an interesting and historical account of two adventurous men, who were amongst the. First white men to explore the vast Hudson Bay area.. I found the account of the captivity of Radison by the Iroquois and the description of their fascinating culture to be particularly engrossing.

[Carl Choiniere · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting storyline, but I found it sometimes dragged then rushed. I also wish I had noticed that it was a second edition that was modified to become a Young Adult version of the original, as I did find the writing a little simple (and I didn't find out until the afterword).

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read. Kept my interest throughout

[Alan Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast and easy historical novel based on real lives.

Received a complementary copy via #GoodreadsGiveaway

[GERALD GENTRY · Rating 4 out of 5]

A historical novel you don't want to miss. An excellent read

[Bev Deyea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book filled in all the blanks in Canadian history I was taught in school. I recommend this book be included in all secondary school curriculums. The sometimes graphic content is nothing compared to what preteens already know about. Especially for people living in Eastern Canada (Quebec and the Great Lakes, it is enlightening.

[Lavender]

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I won this book via Goodreads Giveaways.