DANCING WITH DEATH: An Epic and Inspiring Travel Adventure

by Jean-Philippe Soulé

"An unforgettable escapade of ultimate danger and discovery..."
- Readers' 5/5 stars

"A thrilling book of real-life adventure;"
- David Canford, Author of The Throwback

Fans of John Krakauer will devour this gripping tale of adventure, survival, and a search for life's deeper meaning

Two men, three years, seven countries, 3000 miles...

The Central American Sea Kayak Expedition 2000 is an inspiring journey of exploration, endurance, and self-discovery that takes Jean-Philippe Soul� and his traveling partner Luke Shullenberger from Baja California all the way to Panama.

During this unfathomably grueling expedition, they face every manner of threat, from sharks, crocodiles, and bandits to stormy seas, malaria, and their own mortality--all in search of a deeper connection to Mother Nature and the indigenous people who revere her most.

This riveting memoir of physical and emotional endurance will leave you breathless as you experience their victories, misfortunes and sacrifices. An evocative, gripping narrative coupled with award-winning photographs that is a must-read for those who love travel, outdoor adventure, and cultural exploration--and for the dreamers who've been told they can't, but stubbornly refuse to listen.

2019 Winner of Three international Book Awards

Genres: Travel, Adventure, Environment, Memoir

398 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 11, 2019

About the author

Jean-Philippe Soulé spent his childhood breathing in the beauty of the outdoors and pushing physical boundaries. He joined the elite mountain commando team of the French Special Forces in 1985. Later, driven by his desire for adventure, his quest to discover new lands and culture, and his passion for meeting diverse people, Jean-Philippe left his native France to travel the world.

After 6 years as a Microsoft program manager in Seattle, he led expeditions while working as a photographer. His images of indigenous communities have been published by National Geographic as well as publications from the United Nations. He completed multiple mountain and jungle explorations, then lived in the Siberut tropical jungle among the Mentawai, an indigenous clan of hunter-gatherers.

The value of cultural preservation and a thirst for adventure led him to conceive of his largest-scale and most extreme expedition, an undertaking that had never before been attempted. It’s an achievement that remains intact today, and one which sets the bar for any adventurers who choose to follow. “DANCING WITH DEATH: An Epic and Inspiring Travel Adventure,” depicts this inspiring and oftentimes grueling journey through a compelling narrative. The winner of three international book awards and an Amazon bestseller, “DANCING WITH DEATH” has received rave reviews.

DANCING WITH DEATH will take you on the ride of a lifetime. It’s a rollercoaster of resilience, rare encounters, and moments that will leave you on the edge of your seat, as well as a fascinating account of adventure, passion, and an insight into our very own lives.

A FEW EDITORIAL REVIEWS:

“Thrilling adventure, soulful insights and crisp, fast-paced writing”
- IndieReader

“What the power of human will can accomplish is inspiring, emotional, and empowering”
- The Book Review Directory

“A fast-paced story that will grip you and inspire you. Highly recommended”
- The 'Wishing Shelf

Jean-Philippe continues to guide while writing three new books about other expeditions and travel adventures. Follow him on Bookbub, Goodreads and Facebook to learn more.

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

https://www.facebook.com/Jean-Philipp...

Coming Soon: More Great Reads from Jean-Philippe Soulé:

“The Greatest Race on Earth” chronicles Jean-Philippe’s experience competing in the world’s longest and toughest ultra-cycling race across Europe. He and his wife Yumi set the record as the first and only duo to complete this grueling race. If you liked Dancing with Death , you’ll love this epic story.

“My Life with the Mentawai Shamans and Jungle Dwellers” recounts Jean-Philippe’s experience living among the traditional Mentawai indigenous people. Part action-adventure, part documentary, this memoir includes dozens of intimate cultural photos that offer a deeper look at the fascinating culture and jungle lifestyle of one of the world’s most traditional indigenous tribes.

“No Guidance, No Boundaries, No Limits” Jean-Philippe’s autobiography offers a fascinating and moving history of his early years as well as the formative experiences that forged him into first an adventurer, and later, a highly-respected expert guide and expedition leader. If you enjoyed David Goggins’ Can’t Hurt Me , you’ll love Jean-Philippe’s autobiography.

Today, Jean-Philippe lives in the French Pyrenees. He and his wife founded VéloTopo to offer unique custom cycling tours to the world’s most spectacular destinations in France, Spain, and Italy. Visit www.velotopo.com for more information.

Reviews

[David Canford · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling book of real-life adventure. Being charged by a bull shark, kayaking a narrow canal guarded by crocodiles, living in fear of bandits, nearly drowning and suffering from malaria and dysentery didn't deter the author and his companion from completing their expedition. They kayak down the coast of Central America to Panama to document the life of the indigenous people to raise awareness of their cultures and the need to preserve them.
I really enjoyed reading about what they found in a part of the world I know little about, but have to say I was glad it wasn't me doing it! Their stoicism and refusal to give up in the face of numerous setbacks is inspiring.
I like the way the account alternates between the two friends giving you different perspectives.
A must read if you enjoy the genre.

[Luisa Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some of us follow the lives of adventurers and wish we had it in us to follow in their footpath. Reading this autobiography I knew that never would I be able to achieve what Jean-Philippe Soulé managed. His curiosity, determination, risk-taking, intelligence and willpower all roll together, helping him reach his goal. His first memoir, I, Tarzan had already demonstrated to me he was a man of strong will, yet sensitive at the same time. In Dancing with Death, the man is unstoppable and extraordinary. He is able to push himself to the limits, both physcally and mentally. He endures and will not surrender to the elements, despite their harshness and harmfulness. His is a life few of us can have, but reading his tales carry us on a voyage of discovery and learning. He opens our horizons. We meet extraordinary people through his writing and, most especially, are made all too aware of the harm done to Indigenous people and the urgent need to help them now, before their wisdom and beneficial care for nature is obliterated for ever. I can see this book being played out as a film.

[Julius Blitzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

An amazing story that impressed me. I like this format of books, where information is provided as if it’s from a personal diary, where the author writes his emotions and describes in detail the actions with the date and time.
I love to travel, so it was more interesting for me to read about the journey of two men, whose names are Jean-Phillipe Soulé and his traveling partner Luke Shullenberger. At first, I was amazed that none of them has never sat in a kayak, but they decided to travel by this type of transport. As for me, they are brave.
The guys faced with many challenges: sharks, storms and bandits, which undoubtedly tested their character and endurance. Their journey lasted three years – too long? In my opinion. I believe that the author proves in his own experience - nothing is impossible, just sometimes you have to be able to overcome your fears. I want to read other books of this author because only one his book motivated me much. Highly recommended!

[Cavak · Rating 4 out of 5]

On a technical level, I applaud the work that went into Dancing With Death. The planning was given enough detail to appear bone-breaking. Plenty of passages describing how dangerous and painful the kayaking was, and it may be even worse if done today. Then there were the malaria attacks, other medical mishaps, and the subtle lying to locals that made me reel. At times, "the doing" was so unapologetic and arduous that I had to take breaks from reading it.

What brought me back were the heartwarming episodes with the locals. Here were these two foreign and homeless guys panting for their dear lives along the beach, and some concerned farmer drives up to offer them free lodging, company, directions, and food. Or the ones who were willing to share their lifestyle to Jean-Phillippe and Luke, giving them precious knowledge and stories to last a lifetime. During a time of civil war, even.

Endless generosity that was just enough to keep me invested in the journey. Felt pangs of guilt that the world isn't always so open. Along with the joys were grateful sightings of raw wildlife, which knit together a sterling image of hope.

Then there were the machismo displays and overconfidence that made me chuckle a bit. You're in a foreign land and still want to show off, eh? Ah, the late '90s...

It's unfortunate that Jean-Phillippe and Luke shared a toxic relationship during their three-year trip. Reading about their gradual breakdown made certain elements seem harsher than needed to be. Brought to mind how much it contrasted the friendship shared in Lands of Lost Borders: Out of Bounds on the Silk Road .

Both journeys were done with different stakes and methods of travel, yet the men's relationship spiritually deteriorate with each hardship as opposed to getting stronger. It gave birth to a bunch of "could have" or "maybe" regrets by the end for me. Good on them for having accepted one another's differences.

Another quality that I wish could have been strengthened was the interactions with indigenous cultures. Elaboration on what ancestral stories were told and other sensations around them would have brightened their experiences. Perhaps Jean-Phillippe is angling to be respectful to their culture by omitting details.

And I'm worried that it feels like he's let go of that too. That's fine if Jean-Phillippe felt like he was carrying an unhealthy savior complex that was wrecking his life, but that advocacy pulse in me worries. Here's hoping Native Planet is revived soon by them or someone they trust, preferably by someone who can carry on a strong social media presence to help with the fundraising he felt was lacking. Or somehow be willing to work with other groups that are out there.

Dancing With Death is part travel log, part activism, part memoir. Jean-Phillippe sounds like a guy who would be too intense for me to be friends with, but his tenacity is admirable. I do believe that this is a read for travel enthusiasts and adventure seekers more so than the average reader. Specifics about kayaks go unexplained, and there's a devil-may-care feeling about the exact details of their path (a roughly mapped visual trail would have helped the impact for each chapter).

Give it a try if you are reaching for an outdoors and sea-faring trial. You might enjoy it. Thank you for sharing your three-year journey with Luke, Jean-Philippe!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mochalove · Rating 5 out of 5]

Offering an intensely evocative and aptly titled narrative, Dancing with Death both guides and inspires, armchair adventurers as well as venturesome travelers to the jungles, seas, people and cultures of the world’s “roads” less traveled within the beautiful panoramas of Latin America. Co-authored by co-adventurers Jean-Philippe Soulé and Luke Shullenberger, this dynamic read memorializes not only their experiences during their expansive sea kayaking journey, but also serves to help bring awareness to the cultures and history of the seldom seen or noted native peoples they encountered.

From the start, the story treats the mind to the emotions and visages entwined in this thrilling narrative which memorializes the unforgettable and awe-inspiring expedition by sea touted as a one of a kind undertaking. Author, guide, and adventurer Jean-Philippe Soulé accompanied by fellow adventurer and able friend Luke Shullenberger find themselves and their kayaks sorely tested by weather, tides and their bodies as they paddled thousands of miles braving often life-threatening conditions including near drowning, malaria, shark attacks, crocodiles, guerillas, armed bandits and corruption during their one of a kind undertaking. The overall journey spanning three years, 3000 miles and seven countries included Baja, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. The expedition fully titled as the Central America Sea Kayaking Expedition 2000, but also known as the CASKE2000, was a quest intended as an effort to connect with, learn about and preserve in writing the history of the self-reliant, indigenous peoples and their respect for and relationship with the earth.

Overall, the book provides an absorbing view of life for the two sea bound kayakers. Readers are made privy to the challenges, successes, and failures of their journey supplied via their intimate thoughts and experiences through the inclusion of their alternating journal entries, of which I found did well to enhance the read by providing deep insight and focus to emotions with differing perspectives concerning the elements of planning, preparation, and embarking on the expedition.

Altogether, I did enjoy reading Dancing with Death. The book was easy to engage with and well-organized. I found the narrative an intelligently composed chronicle and compelling read that riled the senses with descriptive exposition and well-organized literate visions of superhuman determination, extreme traveling adventure, fraught with kayaking adventure, spine-tingling moments, exotic environments and intriguing people and cultures.

I also enjoyed their close up encounters with wildlife which made for particularly exciting reading especially the section on playing hide and seek with giant sea turtles. Additionally, aside from portraying a phenomenal travel super-adventure, included in the book are some of the most stunning photos that I have seen, as well as the additional perk of a fantastically organized website where you get to experience even more details of their journey. However, the very best aspect of the book is the inspirational tone of the whole book. The authors, although faced with the adversity and danger of their expedition, did not quit. They simply followed their dreams, a must I think, for all travelers. I definitely and heartily recommend this for fans of travel books.

[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘A paddle into the past with an eye to the future’

French author/adventurer Jean-Philippe Soulé leads expeditions around the globe. His personal expeditions to mountains and jungles provide the nidus for this book about travel adventure. Jean-Philippe founded VeloTopo.com, a custom cycling tour company that takes discerning road cyclists on tours of the Pyrenees, Alps, Corsica, Provence, Dordogne and other regions in France, Spain, Andorra, and Italy – tours he personally designs and oversees.

In a most engaging manner Jean-Philippe and his adventure partner Luke Schullenberger share their backgrounds as athletes and dreamers and have produced a travelogue in the form of an extended journal that details the daily highlights of their Central American Sea Kayak Expedition 2000 (aka CASKE2000) from Baja California to Panama. The preparations and training are accompanied by splendid color photographs of the men and their kayaking and the beauty of the water and land they explored.

Jean-Philippe distills the essence of his book as follows: ‘Two men, three years, seven countries, 3000 miles…The Central American Sea Kayak Expedition 2000 (CASKE2000) is an inspiring journey of exploration, endurance, and self-discovery that takes Jean-Philippe Soulé and his traveling partner Luke Shullenberger from Baja California all the way to Panama. During this unfathomably grueling expedition, they will face every manner of threat, from sharks, crocodiles, and bandits to stormy seas, malaria, and their own mortality all in search of a deeper connection to Mother Nature and the indigenous people who revere her most. This is a tale of adventure, sacrifice, and physical endurance that will leave you breathless with excitement, mourning for our heroes’ losses, and cheering their successes. The evocative, gripping narrative coupled with countless, award-worthy photographs makes this a must-read for those who love travel, outdoor adventure, and the exploration of other cultures. But most of all, it's for the dreamers who've been told they can't, and stubbornly refuse to listen.’

In this inviting style of writing the three-year rigorous but enlightening journey unfolds, combining the style once the sole property of writer Richard Halliburton with the skills of thriller novels. The added aspect of this exciting account of a three-year adventure by kayak is the insight into the Mayan culture, science, healing and history. Or as Jean-Philippe states, ‘The CASKE2000 goal is to experience and write about the culture and lifestyle of the native peoples we meet. We know that the lifestyles and skills of indigenous peoples are one of the keys to the preservation of our earth’s precious ecosystems so, as we learn how they live from the land and the sea, we’ll become self-sufficient ourselves.’

Much more than an adventure journal, this is an enlightening book that tempts/stimulates the reader to forge ahead with dreams. First class book!

[Billy Buttons · Rating 5 out of 5]

A WISHING SHELF BOOK REVIEW
10th Feb, 2019

TITLE: DANCING WITH DEATH: An Epic and Inspiring Travel Adventure
AUTHOR: Jean-Philippe Soulé
Star Rating: 5

‘A fast-paced story that will grip you and inspire you. Highly recommended.’ A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review

REVIEW
I do enjoy travel. Also, I like a little adventure. I back-packed in China; I fished for shark in the Pacific; I even ran a marathon. Mind you, it was just the one. But that’s all tiddly winks compared to the adventure described in this book. Dancing With Death is the epic – yes, epic! – story of two crazy men who decided to kayak from Baja, California all the way to Panama. It’s a fast-paced story of physical and mental strength as the two battle the elements (among many other things) to get to where they want to go.

This is not just a travel book. The author who, I might add, has excellent writing skills, seems determined for the reader to see everything they saw, from braving waters infested with sharks and alligators to trying to understand the different ways of life they encountered.

If I may, I’d like to discuss the writing style further. You see, I often find with many ‘travel’ books, although the ‘travel’ is interesting, the poor ‘writing’ kills it. This is not the case here. The writing is simple, but descriptive when it needs to be. Also, the author seems to understand how important ‘pace’ is with a book of this nature. As a result, plenty happens on pretty much every page.

All in all, this is an enthralling book that I very much enjoyed getting lost in. Would I recommend it? Oh, yes! To who? Well, the list is pretty long. Anybody interested in kayaking would get a lot from this. Also, any students of geography – human or physical – would, I think, find it a compelling read. Finally, in a world where so many ‘give up’, this is an example of two men who didn’t. So, if you are looking for inspiration, here it is. Enjoy!

Editing: 10/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 9/10

To Sum Up: An exciting, yet insightful, water ride.

A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk

[Joel Dennstedt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joel R. Dennstedt for Readers' Favorite

Dancing With Death is billed as ‘An Epic and Inspiring Travel Adventure.’ It is most certainly that. The dancing with death element, however, seems to be due in equal parts to the bold adventurism of its co-authors, Jean-Philippe Soulé and Luke Shullenberger, and their often naïve, some might say foolish, risks of unpreparedness. But these two travel partners are quite candid about their foibles (like an obsessive phobia about man-eating crocodiles), as well as their sometimes friction-filled moments resulting from fatigue and basic personality differences, and so the fruit of their disparate but complementary perceptions is a deeply engaging, truly mesmerizing account of ocean-going survival and contact with indigenous jungle tribes inhabiting the southern world, all part of the “Central American Sea Kayak Expedition 2000 (CASKE2000), a three-year, 3000-mile paddle across seven countries from Baja California to Panama, alternating between the Atlantic and Pacific coasts” – brainchild of Jean-Philippe.

“We chose sea kayaking as a low-impact way to penetrate untouched jungles and their inhabitants without disturbing them. We won’t meet indigenous people as high-tech tourists, but as people like them, living from the land and sea.”

This admirable and ambitious decision by Jean-Philippe Soulé and Luke Shullenberger lends David and Goliath drama to the epic tale of adventure related throughout Dancing With Death – not, in fact, a hyperbolic title. Told as a recreated narrative by Jean-Philippe, but also spiced with present-moment vividness from journal entries made at the time (including many enticing photographs and ecological observations), these two ambitious souls take the reader on a not-to-be-forgotten escapade of ultimate danger and discovery, inspiring less intrepid souls with displays of eclectic survival traits - like athleticism, boldness, ravenous curiosity, and endless buckets of uncanny luck. Even when confronting crocodiles.

[Lisa Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

If ever a book is crying out to be made into an action adventure film it is Jean-Philippe Soulé’s memoir of kayaking through Central America. There are death-defying waves, man-eating sharks, dangerous bandits, malaria, and there is Jean-Philippe himself – ex-French special forces, champion free-diver, pilot, and crazy kayaker.
Kayaking 3000 miles and seven countries in three years along the length of Central America; from Baja California on the Pacific coast, through Nicaragua on the Atlantic, into the swamp like interior in Honduras, as far as Panama City, is certainly crazy by normal standards. But there is a serious and important message in these adventures which goes way beyond the ‘because it’s there’ scenario.
The expedition, which Jean-Philippe and his friend and companion Luke Shullenberger undertake, began as a mission to highlight the plight of Central America’s Indigenous peoples. It is clear that Soule is as passionate about this project as about his kayaking. The book is narrated by both men in turns, giving a varied and interesting perspective from two quite different characters.
My only regret was that there were no maps showing the exact route the intrepid pair took as my old atlas is not sufficiently detailed to follow their travels. The accompanying photos bring the journey almost to life, though not quite as much as a film would.

[Jeff Watson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jean- Philipe and Luke Shullenberger went through an amazing three year trip fighting malaria, crocodiles, sharks, very large surf in their kayaks, and bandits. I’m surprised they even finished the three year trip that was on and off at times. I think they were trying to accomplish too much working with the indigenous people but give them credit for trying. This was a slow read for me since it was on and off again but amazing they stuck it out together. They were both lucky they survived malaria and especially didn’t drown taking their kayaks through large surf and never had ridden a kayak before. It was cool the way they connected with the locals and they put so much effort into trying to make the locals see the light and that they were trying to help them in the long term. I don’t know if they were able to help anybody but they gave everything they had trying to make it happen. I bet they were very glad when the trip was over. I think it is cool that Jean-Philipe is now doing bike tours in Europe. He sounds like he is the type person that would make any trip very interesting.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like many people, I've heard of the Maya and Aztec peoples of Central America, but I wasn't aware of the many indigenous communities that still exist. Jean-Philippe and his friend Luke want to raise awareness and potentially assist these communities, so plan a three year kayaking trip - despite the fact neither have kayaked before, and didn't speak Spanish. I've loved Jean-Philippe's other books, and this was equally as good. I was amazed at the dedication and determination to succeed. Impressed by the interaction with the indigenous tribes: living in their villages and joining in their their lives. And completely terrified by the adventures along the way. Kayaking three thousand miles along the Central American coastline is no picnic. Encounters with storms, sharks and crocodiles meant they were seriously dancing with death, and lucky to escape with their lives on many occasions. This book doesn't pretty up the journey; the arguments and privations are all included. Definitely recommended.

[Valery · Rating 5 out of 5]

DANCING WITH DEATH: An Epic and Inspiring Travel Adventure Jean-Philippe Soulé is a great re-telling of an epic adventure experienced by two friends. Jean-Philippe Soulé and Luke Shullenberger kayaked from Baja, California all the way to Panama in this exciting and revealing book. Written in alternating viewpoints in a journal style, we learn of their various adventures, from grilling fish on the perfect tropical island, to encountering the native peoples, and even meeting the Snakeman. Not only are there physical challenges from the long days, but physical danger as well as they come up against alligators, sharks, and more. Exciting, and fast paced, this is a fantastic true story about two men who actually made a decision to experience an adventure of their lives, first hand, down and dirty. The pictures alone are worth reading this book, as they perfectly capture much of the experience. Highly recommend.

[Mia Swenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing adventure & a fascinating read!

I somehow stumbled upon this book and am so fortunate that I did. I love reading books about mountain climbing, rescues, wilderness attacks - or anything similar. At first I thought “why am I reading about two guys canoeing?” But within a few pages, I couldn’t put it down. Jean-Philippe and especially Luke are the perfect balance hilarious and serious. I found myself laughing out loud at their wit and sympathizing with their plights. The mental and physical strength their expedition required of them is astounding.
It was also absolutely fascinating to read about indigenous tribes; Luke does a masterful job at describing Jean-Philipe’s dedication and passion. I hope Luke doesn’t sell himself short because he made this expedition possible. There are very few people who could have done what he did.
Please read this book. Both men are truly amazing.

[S. Jeyran Main · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dancing with death is a beautiful travel adventure story about the author going on a wild expedition with his friends, dealing with many thrilling scenes. From being charged by a bull shark, dealing with bandits, crocodiles, getting malaria, and so much more, you really get the gist of a true story being told.
I most enjoyed the story because of its honest approach and the author’s mentality of never giving up. Persistency and strength were core messages embodied in this adventure. The pace of the story is fast and inspiring to read.

You get to read about so many places, and as I kept reading along, I understood why the book was titled this way. In my opinion, all well and done; it was the way the author described- his journey that really made a difference. Had he written it in any other way, I do not think it would have been as enjoyable, even with all the exciting things that happened to them.

I recommend this book to travel story readers.

[Jimmy Jefferson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great trip putting two men against nature and more

This is a great trip from the coast of Baja California, Jean-phillipe and Luke venture on a trip of a lifetime testing their ability to survive and discover their deepest abilities. As they follow the coast into Panama, they will face many obsticals and this book gives very good detailed descriptions of the travel through these exotic lands and the variety of adventures they hold. Imagine facing giant waves or pirates or crocodiles, this book takes us on the trip of a lifetime dis covering adventure and a culture that really opens your eyes to the locals. A great read that is just what you need after a stressful day at work.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this up because it sounded like a grand adventure of kayaking from Baja to Panama. It was that, with certain death moments (like the title says) that made my hair stand on end. I could smell the saltwater and feel the water droplets--the descriptions were very good. But more than just that, it was a saga of a duo who wanted to work to save indigenous people by helping them help themselves. On this part of the experience, it was repetitive and not that interesting to me. There are journal notes from Soule and also his kayak partner, Luke. I think it was probably very challenging to Luke to travel with Jean=Philippe, who was so driven, wanting to be in charge, putting Luke down at times, and so focused on the mission. Luke was more easy going and went for the adventure of kayaking in the ocean. It was an interesting book, and worth one's time.

[Kačenka Schlosser · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was interesting to read about the expedition and how they prepared for it, the challenges they were facing. It must have been an adventure! Little crazy and risky but for sure worth it.

On the other hand, the mission to "help" indigenous cultures was from my point of view naive. I do not believe eco-tourism can save them but makes them feel like animals in zoo. Maybe we are the ones who need saving and not these people.… I have checked the website they were working on so hard but its seems disorganized to me and many links do not work.

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I accept how difficult and dangerous this expedition was. I can’t have any real understanding as I’ve never done anything that comes close.
I must admire them for not giving in.
The journey, these two adventurers, recorded as journal entries.
The book: a finished product is a typed up and embellished set of diary entries, which churned out the dangers and the desperation, but did become a little too repetitive.
I became more drawn to the way in which the people and communities lived and survived; thus enjoyed the book for that.

[Steve Bera · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book, but it does not show us anything new. We do get a look at the crime in central america, and a look at some of the indigenous cultures there. But, not big adventure. More like a two year long backpacking trip. Being a kayaker myself I enjoyed the many portions about navigating rough water, but not many readers kayak. The author has several new books in the works that might be worth looking at, but not available today. So, kind of mediocre.

[April Lashbrook · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have kayaked only rarely and have never traveled to Central America. Dancing With Death made me want to do both, minus the sharks and crocodiles. I was fascinated by Jean-Philippe’s vision of documenting indigenous cultures by kayaking to them. I enjoyed the alternating viewpoints between Luke and Jean-Philippe, and loved the honesty—both about the physical challenges and the ups and downs of their adventuring partnership.

[Maureen Macdonald · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a good adventure story until the last few chapters when Soule seemed to get a little full of himself. The kayaking part of the book was interesting though but the trip seemed a bit foolhardy---but a good read. Soule's quest to supposedly help indigenous tribes by bringing tourists in I think is just plain wrong. And his expectation of wanting to be adored when he met new people was very narcissistic.

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an exciting book. Two young men take on the feat that few would choose to do—making a kayaking trip around South America from Baja
California to the Atlantic, the Caribbean, and end in Costa Rico. I had no idea how rough the waters were in those areas.The challenges they faced on the water were potentially deadly. There were also dangers on land from hostile residents. I held my breathe a few times.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two friends are going to take on a journey to get closer to nature. It will take two years and thousand of mile. They will face many dangers including sharks. How will they feel when it all comes to.an end? Will they find what they were looking for? See if theybdo

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nancy M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting and very well written.

The authors have quite obviously kept very detailed journals of their lengthy and arduous trek. They manage to make a very readable and interesting story. Their struggle against the weather, waves, current are bad enough. They also fight numerous injuries and sickness. Enjoyable in all respects and a book I do reccomend.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

True Adventure

This book chronicles the travels of two extreme athletes as they kayak from the Sea of Cortez to Panama. The life and death experiences and contacts with all walks of life from good Samaritans to banditos to indigenous people are spellbinding. A very enjoyable book.

[Patricia M. Brearton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great adventure!

Through all the pain, discomfort, and struggle, their story inspires and delights. After all, the relationships we develop and the love we give and receive from the lives we touch is what we are here for. An amazing story!

[Pablo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Energetic, interested and driven, but hopelessly ill prepared for this trip! Lacking technically in almost every way, and expecting to make up for it with enthusiasm becomes exasperating at a certain point. Not terrible and certainly adventurous, but I lost interest and DNF. 3 stars for effort!!

[Bruce Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Maps needed

Five times I tried to review this book,and five times it was erased. That's enough. I haven't any more time to give to it.

[Lucretia Bingham · Rating 2 out of 5]

An adventure but disjointed

They were brave and determined but their mission seemed naive and their quest determined but needlessly dogmatic. Wanted to like it but didn’t.

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommended.