A recreational canoeist in his native Texas, Rick Sparkman thought he knew all about the sport when he moved to Nova Scotia in 1981. Getting dumped from his canoe in one of the swift, cold rivers of his new home adjusted his thinking.

Woodlands Canoeing is a guide to the pleasures of canoeing in the northern woodlands, where the channels are narrow, the water is swift and often shallow, and conditions can vary from day to day. Designed for novice canoeists or those accustomed to canoeing on more predictable rivers and lakes, the book mixes practical instruction in paddling, poling, lining, and portaging with historical insights and personal stories.

Drawing upon his years of experience as a solo and tandem canoeist, Sparkman also includes chapters on canoe tripping and camping in comfort, canoeing with children, and, for the real enthusiasts, the delights of winter canoeing.