Upstream: In the Alaska Wilderness

by Eric Wade

Upstream is a continuation of Eric Wade's wilderness story begun in his earlier book, Cabin. For many years, Wade has traveled twice a year to his cabin on a river for an extended stay in the Alaska boreal forest. There he and his wife, Doylanne, built a rewarding life among bear, moose, owls, grouse, and fish. But their recent trips carry a different feeling as they face the challenges that come with aging. Wade gives us a look at his pain and frustration as he needs to adjust his behaviors to suit his physical changes, having reached the point in life when he transitions from building and growing to slowing down and letting go. Beautifully written, Upstream is a meditation on a life spent in the wilderness and the realization that one's dream doesn't fade as the years go by, but one must be prepared to make some changes.

197 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 31, 2022

Reviews

[Brenda Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A How-to Book on Aging

A couple gracefully transitions to old age. The Alaskan wilderness serves as a backdrop to illustrate what we once viewed as challenges to be faced and surmounted are now simply to be avoided whenever possible. Beautifully written.

[David Gorman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wilderness Living with Age

I enjoyed this book. Starting to realize aches and pains that come with age myself, I could relate to the author's thoughts and dialogue of the challenges associated with wilderness living as one grows older.

[Michael Jewell · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent quick read that combines adventure, observations, and sage advice that relates to all ages. I especially enjoyed his observations on getting older (being in my late 60’s) I must agree with his keen ability to point out our failing minds and bodies. A bit envious with his cabin and life in Alaska but absolutely loved reading about his and his wife’s adventures in the “wilderness”. I highly recommend reading this book!