Taking Aim: Daring to Be Different, Happier, and Healthier in the Great Outdoors

by Eva Shockey, A.J. Gregory

An acclaimed bow hunter who defies the stereotype that hunting is a man’s game, Eva Shockey is at the forefront of a new wave of women and girls who are passionate about outdoor sports.   Eva Shockey grew up expecting to be a dancer like her glamorous mother. But something about spending family vacations RV-ing across North America and going on hunts with her dad sparked in her an enduring passion for a different way of life. In Taking Aim, Eva tells a very personal story of choosing the less-traveled path to a rewarding life in outdoor pursuits like hunting and fishing. For her, as her millions of fans can attest, that has meant hunting as a way of harvesting food, caring deeply about conservation, sustainability and healthy eating, and getting closer to God in nature.  In this riveting memoir for the adventurer in all of us, Eva takes readers along as she hunts caribou on the rugged Aleutian Islands, tracks a 1,500-pound bull moose across the unforgiving Yukon, and meets many other challenges of a life in the wild. Along the way we learn that hunting is about so much more than pulling a trigger. "My story is about discovering your dream," writes Eva. "It's about following your passion, mastering your skills, taking aim no matter who thinks you’re crazy…and then letting the arrow fly. If you’ve done all you can, I can tell you that you’re almost certain to hit your mark."Whether you’re a lifelong hunter or a city dweller who has never set foot in the wilderness, Eva’s story delivers an empowering message about rejecting stereotypes and expectations, believing in yourself, and finding the courage to pursue what you care about most.

Genres: Nonfiction, Sports, Memoir

211 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 29, 2017

About the author

Eva Shockey is co-host with her father of "Jim Shockey's Hunting Adventures" on the Outdoor Channel. A sought after spokesperson on hunting and the outdoors, she is a corporate ambassador for Cabela's, Bowtech, Crosman, Daniel Defense, Muzzy Broadheads and other major brands, and has an exclusive line of Under Armour gear. She is married to professional hockey player Tim Brent, and when she's not traveling for the work she loves, she divides her time between North Carolina and Vancouver Island.

Reviews

[Donna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'll give this three stars, but I'm not going to lie, some of this bugged me. I judge autobiographies a little different because the authors are usually not professional writers and I think it takes courage to put your story out there. So I try to be as kind and gentle as possible. Now with that little disclaimer out there, I'll begin.

I liked her story and that she represents the sport of hunting well. I'm not anti-hunting. I grew up in Alaska so hunting and fishing was a way of life. I've eaten plenty of moose, reindeer, and ptarmigan, but there were things that bothered me about this.

First, I'll start how she came across to me. For the most part, she did had an authentic voice, but then she'd slip into a formality with exact sentence structure. It sounded like she was trying too hard, then she'd slip back into an easier style. With the toggling I found myself not believing her. Then she'd be back on track but then would again change. That was frustrating.

This one didn't seem to be well written. It was a little choppy and some of this sounded like she was again, trying too hard, like she wanted to please everyone. This needed to be reigned in a little with a tighter focus on her and the sport.

The last thing, is that I didn't like the way she said (and she said it many times) that these animals 'gave their life'. That is not true; they did not willingly and knowingly volunteer to be dinner. Just sayin'.

[Debby (Alwaysbooking) · Rating 5 out of 5]

My husband is a hunter and is raising little hunters of his own. I myself do not hunt, I understand why we hunt. I do shoot archery, I have a compound bow. I understand the necessity to hunt for conservation and to put organic food on our table. I am sure my husband has explained to my 800 thousand times what Eva Shockey explained in this book but the ways she explained it seemed to sink in a thousand times better. So I’m going to say in advance sorry Mr. Tough Guy.

I highly suggest this book whether you are into hunting or not, this book does not specifically talk about hunting. It talks about Eva’s journey to who she is now. This book explains conservation in a way that I never thought about conservation before. Hunters raise more money for conservation of animals than any other group is just one of the many facts I have pulled from this book. I knew that they did a lot but that is just amazing.

“Here’s a fun fact: In 1900, fewer than half a million white-tailed deer remained in the United States. Today, conservation programs have returned the whitetail population to some 32 million.”

Growing up Eva had dreams of being a dancer, just like her mother. When her father would come home from his hunting trips she would run out to the garage area and chat away about her week while he would process the game from that hunting trip. To Eva this was normal, the same as some fathers wear a tie to work, or my husband wears work boots and old clothes. She stayed with her dreams of being a dancer for years upon years even unto college. Eva only showed hints of being interested in hunting when younger. It wasn’t until after college that Eva really took an interest in her father’s career.

At first she learned the ins and the outs of the business side. Then she asked to go on hunts with her father. When Eva was younger and would go to the hunts with her family, she would be able to see how the hunt provided for the village/town they were in. However she didn’t actually participate in those hunts. Now that she was older she wanted to participate to see the other side to understand everything. This book is about that journey, her becoming a woman in a man dominated field. How she overcomes the things thrown at her with grace and calm.

Going hunting is much more than just putting food on the table for their families. It’s about the journey. You are closer to nature, you respect nature. You are respecting the earth for providing you with this food, for your family, friends, or village.

“Criticism can arise in many different forms at any point in your life. People might make fun of your style, tell you you’re not good enough, call you dumb, or say your’re a nerd. As hurtful as negative words can be, they only mean something if you believe them. It’s not easy to hear or read mean or hurtful words-and you can’t stop them from coming. But you do have a choice. You can give negative comments power, which will cost you time and energy that you can never get back or you can allow them to push you forward and continue to follow your own path. The choice is yours.”


Do I think everyone should read this book? Of course I do! It’s about a young woman going for her dreams in a male dominated world. I think Eva is much, much more than hunter and if you read her book you find that out real fast. She is an amazing human being, and role model for young ladies whether they are hunters or not.

I would like to say a big thank you to Convergent, #Takingaim , and Eva Shockey for an advanced copy in lieu of my honest review.

[Tande Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is great for people especially women new to hunting. Eva does an amazing job explaining her lifestyle. It is also an extremely easy and fast paced book.

[Themountainbookie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book ever “outdoorsy” woman never knew they needed. As a female hunter, I devoured this book! I so wish there were other books about female hunters.

[Paige Gordon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was such an enjoyable read! I actually listened to the audio version of it which was read by Eva and found it immensely entertaining. She is a wonderful storyteller and her life story is simply fascinating. Her insight and wisdom into all things hunting and life related is a joy to learn from and I found myself pausing the book many times to just ponder some of the incredibly insightful truths she shared. It is well worth the time to listen to or read this one, especially if you are a hunter!

Favorite Quote: "Hunting does not provide a conventional kind of fun. I’ll admit, it’s not as relaxing as fanning yourself on a tropical beach with a stream of umbrella-topped drinks that never stops coming, but the rewards are far greater. You’re forced to be intensely present. To be in the moment. To take in the fresh air. To celebrate God’s creation and the many ways in which it sustains us. Hunting is something that keeps on giving long after the trip is over. "

[Tracey]

Join the "reader advisory panel", Penguin Random House said. Help us choose covers, they said. It'll be fun, they said. Sure. Okay. I can look at prospective covers for business books and ponder whether the one with the woman posed on the ladder is more appealing than the one with her just standing there. What I can't do it look at pictures of this woman posing grinning beside a big giant crossbow and decide which image of someone who kills for pleasure - more, kills for a living - is more ... appealing? No. That's a bit like trying to decide who among Hitler, Goebbels, and Goering looks most appealing - "Well, that little mustache is simply adorable, but the steely look in that one's eyes says he means business!"

I was just that little bit happier before I knew Eva Shockey existed.

[Caitlyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not a hunter, but know many. This book gives a really good insight to those unfamiliar with the logistics that go into hunting. I enjoyed how Eva talked about conservation aspects, the health of eating meat that is safe and "organic" if you will, and the precision and practice needed to be a competitive hunter. I still won't be going to shoot myself dinner anytime soon, but I do have a little more respect for the people who do thanks to this book.
It's a very easy read, and informative on Eva Shockey's life from ballerina to outdoors women. She's been thrown some hardships, and gets through them with grace. That is something I have respect for.

[Crystal Long · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was captivated early in the book and literally could not put it down. I love how completely genuine Eva is on these pages. I could honestly feel the love that she has for the hunting lifestyle emanating from this book. As a hunter and a mom myself I enjoyed the adventures she wrote about on these pages and find myself daydreaming about Yukon moose hunts (I can dream)! I love how hunting is more than a sport to Eva. It is a way of life connecting you to the outdoors and most importantly to your family.

[A Holland Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book to be a good book about a strong woman. This is about a girl who learned to follow her dreams and never let go. It will also inspire you to do the same. It was fun to read about her adventures in life and she made you feel as if you were right along with her. Even if you do not hunt you will enjoy this book. I myself do not hunt and was a little leary about this book but after reading it I am glad I gave it a chance. There is so much more to this story than her hunting. Eva is an inspiring woman that many can look up to.

[Alexa Talkington · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was on the launch team for Taking Aim & enjoyed helping this book come to life. Enjoyable read for those who love the outdoors, hunting, or looking for an inspirational read about trying to be your best self. I am a hunter and this book does a good job of explaining how hunting plays an important role in conservation but it is not the book’s main message. Eva is a great role model for young girls and I can’t wait for my daughter to read it when she is older.

[Angie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book and Eva's story. As a compound bow owner myself, I can identify with her sporting sentiments. In more broad terms, as a woman, it it difficult sometimes to co-exist in a 'man's world'. Hard work, determination, drive, desire, and focus are what anyone needs to bring their dreams to reality. I liked that message in Eva's book. I wish Eva the best. Not many women hunters have the opportunities she has had. 3.5/5 stars.

[Gabriella Hoffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

As part of Eva Shockey's #LaunchTeam, I've had the pleasure of reading and reviewing the book. I'll have a more thorough review of it later, since it's yet to be released, but it's an amazing book. Be sure to order!

[Jocelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent example of female self empowerment and how being different (i.e. a female hunter) is OK and beautiful. Eva is a true role model for women of all ages and her book is a great testament to how hard work and perseverance pay off in achieving your dreams.

[Ashley Warlick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!

Great read for hunters and non hunters alike. If you have ever wondered why hunters hunt then please read this book. If you need a daily dose of girl power then read this book.

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was looking for quick, non-fiction/biography reads for hunters/outdoor enthusiasts for school and came across this one. The writing style is simple (quite juvenile at times, and I am surprised the second author/helper allowed this to happen). I am not sure to whom this book is marketed, but explaining simple terms made it feel like I was reading a school text with vocabulary instruction, and I felt the author was talking down to me. If this is necessary, then use a glossary at the back of the book and don't interrupt the story's flow.

Nevertheless, this book is a good choice for our students. Eva is a TV personality (as is her dad), so some students might recognize her name. I am intrigued by her upbringing ( ballerina mom and outdoorsy dad with healthy eating habits before they were a fad). I love her strength and the message she provides to women.

I wish this book had more heft to it. It's a good story, but it feels more like an outline that skims over her life story. The shortness of the book, however, will appeal to some readers, and readers may choose to follow her on social media to learn more about her.

[Stephanie Nelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was wonderful and inspiring; definitely something I would love my girls to read, and I would recommend that anyone who has young girls take a look at the book. It's also educated me and changed my views in many ways in regards to hunters, and their positive contributions to society and the environment. The book takes you through Eva's life starting with her love of dance and ending with her life as a hunter. The book tells the story of a young woman trying to find herself and her true purpose in life. Eva's mother is a dancer and her father is a famous hunter. It was a pull between the two for Eva as well until she truly explored hunting with her father. From her first hunt she can tell this is what she was meant to do with her life. Before reading this book I felt that most hunters were looking to get a trophy, and they were killing innocent animals to do it. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking to find out the truth. I was sent this book by Blogging for Books for an honest review.

[Meaghan Vogt · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you know me, I am not a hunter, but my fiancé is a hunting fanatic! With our newest wall addition, a Michigan Elk. So, taking a recommendation from a friend, Taking Aim was a look into a hunter’s life, defining the typical stereotype and showing their true passion.

I will continue to love to eat wildlife, but I choose to stay back while Scott hunts, and that is okay. In this book, Eva shows the raw forefront of what she endured when she decided she wanted to walk in her dad’s footsteps and hunt, and it made me sick. People all have a choice and if they decide to never eat meat, that is okay, but they should never crucify those who do decide to hunt and eat meat. Eva has been through a lot as a female hunter, but she never let it stop her. She cares deeply for this passion of hunting and you can just feel it through the pages of her book!

[Aaron Bucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was a great book. I hope to reread the book over again with my daughter when she is older. If you’re a literary critic or someone who has their preformed opinion about hunting- don’t waste your time or anyone else who would read your “review.” This book is about the message. It’s also about the deeper meaning that is involved when you supply your family with fresh and healthy food and take care of your hunting harvests responsibly. It’s tough and scary to put your own story out in the world for people to pick over and criticize, but I think Eva did a fine job. The book flowed well and I read through it quickly. I never found myself checking the clock or looking to see how many pages were left. I genuinely enjoyed the book.

[Oscar Romero · Rating 5 out of 5]

Because I build arrows for a living--and because arrows are used for hunting. I was thinking of learning a bit about her perspective and her passion for hunting. There sure is a lot I did not know about the hunting industry and why people love to hunt.

This book sure explains what she does, and why. But, do not let me tell you--I think you would also enjoy reading about her introduction to a male-dominated world ---that seems to be changing slowly towards a better world, with more women involved in hunting.

[Oscar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Because I build arrows for a living--and because arrows are used for hunting. I was thinking of learning a bit about her perspective and her passion for hunting. There sure is a lot I did not know about the hunting industry and why people love to hunt.

This book sure explains what she does, and why. But, do not let me tell you--I think you would also enjoy reading about her introduction to a male-dominated world ---that seems to be changing slowly towards a better world, with more women involved in hunting.

[Faith · Rating 2 out of 5]

For anyone that isn’t just getting into hunting and is used to and knowledgeable about outdoor lifestyles; I wouldn’t recommend this book. Honestly, it’s a little painful reading about some of the stories because they seem to be told through such naive eyes. I guess to some the adventures may seem very exciting, but to an experienced outdoorsmen they seem like mediocre hunts blown out of proportion.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this up because it reminded me of a similar book I adored, The Comfort Crisis. While it’s not quite the same, I was not at all disappointed. Eva’s life may be very different than mine, but I feel she was able to call forward the similarities that we all have as hunters, outdoor lovers, and advocates for this lifestyle. A really enjoyable, light read that I found myself eager to keep returning to!

[Amanda Fontenot · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is such a easy and fast read! The imagery Eva gives you makes you feel like you are right along side her on her adventures. I’m not a hunter, my husband goes on the occasional trip, but reading this book opens your eyes and mind on more than shooting and eating an animal! Give it a read, you won’t regret it!

[Ashton Nesmith-Kochera · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was thrilled to be apart of Eva Shockey’s book launch team and absolutely adored her book. She breaks barriers to share what she is so passionate about! Her story is so inspiring that I went out and bought my 12 year old daughter her own copy. This is a great read for readers of all ages! I definitely recommend Taking Aim by Eva Shockey!

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a book that just happened to be available when I needed something new to read. I am not a hunter but I do like the great outdoors. I really just enjoyed her hunting stories. There is good advice here and there too. But mostly good, fun stories. Also, learned about hunters and conservation.

[Mandy Likens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read! It gives non-hunters an insight on how and why hunting is important for conservation. It also gives some background into Eva's childhood and how she came to love the great outdoors. Loved reading this. It hits close to home.

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I chose this book because I enjoy learning about adventurers, not because I'm a hunter. Eva tells how she reached for her dream, how hunting is a good way to feed a family and is nutritious, too. Now, a compound bow may be in my future!

[Brandy Nicole Naylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great book about life. Winning, losing and fighting the good fight. Also, if you are an outdoorsman/woman, you will really appreciate some of the stories.
Truly loved this book, but even more, I adore Eva Shockey and have for years. She’s authentic 💜

[Janet K · Rating 4 out of 5]

In full disclosure, I received a free advanced copy of Taking Aim, as part of the Eva Shockey book Launch Team @ConvergentBooks @EvaShockey #LaunchTeam.
This was an enjoyable, easy read that shared stories of how Eva joined her family business and became a hunter herself. Though she grew up in a hunting family, and exposed to the outdoors, it was not something that she herself started taking part in as a young girl. In this book, Eva shares some of her early hunting experiences and stories, giving explanations to things that non hunters may not be familiar with. Overall, I feel this is an inspiring, enjoyable read, whether or not you are interested in hunting, especially for someone looking to pursue an interest that they may find is outside of what is "expected" from them.

[Nancy Seamons · Rating 4 out of 5]

How to be yourself and do the things you love despite others approval or lack thereof.