Man and Dog: Through the Newfoundland Wilderness

by Justin Barbour, TA Loeffler (Contributor)

One man, one dog, a grand adventure across the Newfoundland wilderness.

In April 2017, Justin Barbour and his Cape Shore water dog, Saku, arrived in Robinsons, on the Rock’s west coast, where they began a quest to experience the province’s woods and waters first-hand. A late winter lingers as they push over the Long Range Mountains to the interior of the island, where they hope thawed lakes and rivers will allow them to continue by inflatable raft. From sunrise to sunset, follow the companions as they battle the dangerous and unforgiving elements to reach Cape Broyle, some 700 kilometres away.

Here you will see the island in a unique way, learn about outdoor life, and gain awareness of Newfoundland’s natural history. Complete with colour photos, maps, and interesting facts about the journey, Man and Dog will offer you the heat of a campfire against your cheeks, the tug of a trout on your line, and the breath of a curious black bear that has wandered into your camp. It’s a journey for nature lovers, explorers, and adventurers of all ages.

“Man and Dog is a must-read for everyone who feels the pulse of the wild, especially Newfoundlanders who love the land and waters. Justin Barbour has that spirit of adventure and self-reliance that is becoming much more rare in modern society. This book gives us all a glimpse into wilderness travel that most of us will never experience ourselves.” — Paul Smith, Educator, Outdoor Writer and Photographer

“Justin and his story are truly the essence of what it means to be an adventurer. His love for Newfoundland and Labrador, his passion for exploration, and his dedication to challenging himself form a recipe for inspiration, and an example for what human beings can achieve.” — Ray Zahab, Adventurer, Explorer: Royal Canadian Geographic Society, Founder: impossible2Possible

Genres: Travel

301 pages, Paperback

First published October 2, 2019

About the author

Justin Barbour was born in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and grew up in the rural community of Bauline until his early teens. His family then moved to St. John’s, where he went to school and played hockey competitively until moving away to Miramichi, New Brunswick, to suit up in the Maritime Junior A League for four years.

Upon returning to Newfoundland, Justin completed a Bachelor of Physical Education and Bachelor of Education at Memorial University. During that time he played in the Newfoundland Senior Hockey League for seven years before moving away to Cartwright, Labrador, to teach K-12 physical education and science for a year.

He is a provincial champion in high school hockey, AAA Midget Hockey, Men’s A Ball Hockey, and he has won a Herder Memorial championship with the Grand Falls–Windsor Cataracts in 2015.

Justin is an adventurer, teacher, writer, public speaker, and he runs a successful YouTube Channel that documents his expeditions. He credits growing up in the woods of Bauline for making him the independent and passionate outdoorsman he is today.

Since 2017, Justin has travelled over 3,000 kilometres in the wilderness of Newfoundland and Labrador, accompanied by his Cape Shore water dog, Saku. In 2018 he was sponsored by the Royal Canadian Geographical Society for an expedition in Labrador, and he wrote about it for Canadian Geographic upon his return. He has been asked to speak in places as far away as Ontario.

Justin Barbour lives in Grand Falls–Windsor with his fiancée, Heather, their malamute husky, Bear, and the famous Cape Shore water dog, Saku.

Reviews

[Marth · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I think of my favourite books, I can say that outdoor adventure stories aren't a genre I usually gravitate towards. I think that 'Man and Dog: Through the Newfoundland Wilderness' might have changed that for me. Both an exciting story about travelling across Newfoundland by foot and raft, as well as a look at the background and supplies required to make it happen, this book opened up my eyes to outdoor exploration. While I don't think I'll be embarking on a 70 day hike anytime soon, Justin Barbour's reflections about his trip have given me food for thought, and are the push I need to plan some hikes in my future.

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book tells a very exciting story. It is a very detailed and informative book about Justin and Saku’s journey across Newfoundland. It really is an incredible journey and when reading this book it gives you an idea of what it really was like to take part in such an amazing adventure that so few people will ever get to experience. Very well written. Once you start reading it, it’s hard to put it down. It’s refreshing to read a book about Newfoundland adventure because you don’t see that kind of book a lot nowadays. It’s worth the read and I think you will be very satisfied that you picked up your copy as well!

[Richard Scarponi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read! Dive into a wilderness adventure with Justin and his faithful companion Saku as they navigate the wilds of interior Newfoundland. Enjoy the day to day of a epic expedition that many dream about. Live the joys and the pains of this 700km journey, getting to know Justin and why this undertaking was so important to him. From the first page you feel like you’re in the bush along side them. A must read for all wilderness enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

[Germaine Payne]

I am totally amazed at the ambitious and daring journey Justin took part in and give him all the credit he deserves. He writes with a passion for the Newfoundland and Labrador wild that is contagious and would turn any nature hater into a lover. I found the book a bit dry but that may be because I was expecting more of a story and less of a summary of the day to day activities.

[Michael Dalton · Rating 5 out of 5]

An unreal story of true friendship and the great adventurous wilderness of our home Newfoundland. Would recommend this to everyone!

[Kelley Power · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know my rating is influenced by (a) my familiarity with the places the author describes and (b) owning a dog very similar to his and having had camping excursions with her (nowhere near as adventurous as Barbour's!), but even without those biases, the book is a great adventure tale, harrowing at times, and the reader gets easily drawn into the physical and emotional rollercoaster Barbour and his dog are on as they traverse the NL backcountry. My only real complaint is the poor editing. It's such an engaging tale, it deserved closer proofreading and, particularly, content editing to reduce repetition and avoid pacing slumps. But don't let that discourage you from reading the book!

[Chris · Rating 3 out of 5]

I heard about this book while watching Shawn James (My Self Reliance) You Tube channel - I believe Justin Barbour had sent a copy of the book to Shawn.

To be honest, there are much better outdoor books out there. I'm surprised GoodReads gives it 4.5 stars. Having said that, if you consider this is the authors first book there is lots to enjoy and make it a worthwhile read.

I really enjoyed the descriptions of the Newfoundland wilderness and the trout fishing Justin describes. I would have liked to have seen more maps but you have to hand it to the guy for planning and seeing the trip through to completion. He's obviously a seasoned tripper and loves his province.

If you can get past the over the top writing style and the fact the book could easily have been 50 pages shorter, I would recommend the read. I hope the author continues his writing as he obviously loves to share his wilderness experience with others!

[chelsey buggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve followed Justin’s adventures for quite some time and his book did not disappoint. To me, it was reminiscent of Into the Wild (but if it were told from the perspective of McCandless). Justin pushes his body and mind to the limit combatting some of North America’s toughest and untouched terrain. His prose is as if he is sitting with you at the fire, weaving tales of his journey. You feel every triumph along with him. Would highly recommend for any outdoor enthusiast.

[Lucy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Justin Barbour and his dog Saku traveled across Newfoundland on foot and by pack raft. There was more than one hair-raising misadventure, but mostly this is just a day by day chronology of their trip. Perhaps I would have appreciated it more if I was more familiar with the province. (I certainly would have appreciated better editing of the text.)

[Mark]

This book was a great read. I couldn't put it down. Justin took us on a great adventure and made me feel like I was right there with him through the whole journey. Hope he continues to write about his adventures. I would buy them. Thanks, Mark

[Orion · Rating 4 out of 5]

n April 2017, Justin Barbour and his Cape Shore water dog, Saku, arrived in Robinsons, on the Rock’s west coast, where they began a quest to experience the province’s woods and waters first-hand. A late winter lingers as they push over the Long Range Mountains to the interior of the island, where

[Jessica O'Brien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing read! It hooked me. Now all I want to do is discover more of Newfoundland’s interior! I loved every minute of it.

[Matthew Beverley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Imagine Lure of the Labrador Wild if everything turned out ok and there’s a dog that rules. This awesome book!

[Julius Toltesi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great adventure, Well written, and easy to follow. Makes ya want to get outdoors.

[Dean Campa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Came across Justin's youtube channel and that lead me to his book. Justin and Saku in the backcountry trek, through Newfoundland ,,,,excellent.

[Stuart]

The author’s warm personality and outdoor philosophy comes through clearly, and the recounting of his trek is pleasantly engrossing.

[Ed Wight · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book from start to finish, I was locked in for the 68 days. Very detailed account of the experience. You can see the research, preparation & training that went into the trip, but very humble in the learnings along the way. Much more to me then a hike across the province, it’s reaching a goal & the whole relationship between Justin & Saku, 2 dedicated teammates. I knew the book was well written but i watched the YouTube videos immediately after. Having the background to the story from the book definitely improves the experience. Looking forward to the next book, great job

[Rowena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Man and Dog is a fantastic modern day adventure story. Justin Barbour is an ordinary person who did an extraordinary thing; walk across the island of Newfoundland through the challenges and beauty of the rugged wilderness. If you are not already a nature lover, you will fall in love with the land and all it offers the reader as Justin wonderfully recounts his adventures with his beloved dog, Saku. I recommend this book highly. Five stars!

[Keith Wheaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book! Once you start reading it you will not want to put it down ! Justin’s passion for the outdoors combined with the way he connects natures way with strong mental health is fantastic. While reading the book the chapters are medicine for the soul . Thanks Justin for taking me along with you on this adventure !

[Janet N]

I loved it, even though i have watched all of the videos, the book is still very good to read, holds your attention, i will be watching for more books and videos,, keep them coming Justin .

[Marion Blandford · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very well written book, you feel that you are in the moment with him, not much left to the imagination. Makes you want to get out there in the wild with him.

[Cameron Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book, it was such a great adventure and Justin told it beautifully.

[Lester Hennebury Jr. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book...Justin you have a great way of keeping us interested

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true action packed adventure story told in the first person.

Self-motivated, focused, and determined Justin Barbour meticulously planned and calculated every detail imaginable then leaped into the abyss of a wilderness where turning back or screaming for help was not an option.

Action packed and fast moving. This great book is a real gripper.

EXCERPTS:

As I grow older I am beginning to notice that most challenges are head games. If you can put yourself in the right frame of mind, you will find that life becomes easier. The ninety per cent mental, ten per cent physical approach is true in most undertakings of this kind.

Believe it is in me, genetically, more than most, I know, to roam the outdoors and experience its wealth. It is a desire I cannot fight or resist. There is so much to love. More than most can really imagine. Life out there is challenging and exciting and keeps you on your toes. Curiosity is around every corner. Freedom reigns.



I’m not afraid to share my mistakes, because reflecting on failures is the only way we learn as a human race. We can receive feedback the easy way or the hard way—it doesn’t matter. It’s not what you messed up that counts; it’s what you get from the experiences. You can’t focus on the negatives. See opportunities and solutions, not problems and headaches.

[Rusty · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great adventure read.
A good read for anyone interested in experiencing the wilderness.

[Pat Sweet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Man and Dog is such a unique book, it entertains as well as educates. Having watched Justin’s YouTube series chronicling this trip I thought his book might not be for me. I was wrong, and so happy to be wrong! The authors style helps the reader understand what they experienced traveling across Newfoundland while roughing it. Thanks to Justin and Saku for sharing their trip with an avid reader and a fan.

[Diane · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a DNF for me. I tried. I really did. I love hiking and being out in nature and I think I was expecting to read more about the adventure, less of a daily journal packed with specific facts about gear used and paths taken, etc.
This would be a great resource book, though, for anyone wanting to do something similar.
Definitely well written and lots of time put into this. Just wasn't my thing.

[Ryan Flynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Justin and Saku are an indestructible force on this 700km backcountry expedition. From the highs to the lows Justin leads us through some of the most rugged country this land has to offer. From winter conditions in the Long Range Mountains to mystical mornings on the interior lakes, Justin and Saku take it head on. Superbly written to keep the pages flipping!

[Keith Cormier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have ever had a boil up by the side of a brook. Have you ever wondered what was over the next hill or across the pond in front of you. Have you ever caught trout & cooked them on the spot. Woke up in a tent with the rain making music on the tarp, flushed a grouse or spooked a moose, this book is for you. Thank you Justin Barbour for this book. Great read.

[Brian Mullins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Justin really makes you feel as though your right there along him and Saku the entire trip. A real page turner, couldn't put it down until I had it finished. I recommend to anyone who loves a good book on the outdoors or wilderness travel.