Living on the Edge: Explorations in the Northern Wilderness (Paperback or Softback)

--A fresh new look at adventure, survival and faith--
from a recipient of the Explorers Club Award.

Adventure is in his blood. He has the explorer's curiosity, the will to survive, and the faith to persevere. An engaging writing style, with at times, humorous observations, animates his adventures in remote landscapes in Canada.

Through David Friesen's archaeological and teaching projects, he discovered the wonders of the people, wildlife and landscapes of the far northern wilderness and, at the same time, the inner spirit that drives him. Vivid descriptions of strange (to him) cuisine (such as bear meat and miserak) and innovative recipes (lichen shrimp soup) season many stories.

David's boundless curiosity, evolving relationships with First Nations leaders, and personal stamina led him to persist in the building of a pithouse in northern British Columbia to replicate the dwellings of early Ulkatcho Carrier people. Living in the pithouse over several winters, he keenly observed the wildlife and scenery around him, and survived by living off the land. His solitary existence drew inspiration from the landscape, spiritual songs, scripture passages and his own poetic expressions.

In the Arctic, he encountered a rugged lifestyle as he taught map and compass skills to Inuit youth, learning traditional navigational skills along the way.

A perilous kayaking trip along the British Columbia north coast punctuated a three month trip, facing a fierce storm and many other challenges.

David E. Friesen has a Masters of Arts in Archaeology from the University of Calgary and a Bachelor of Education from Simon Fraser University.

As a retired archaeologist and teacher, David Friesen continues to be an avid learner of the world around him and within himself.

Triumphs and adversities have shaped his life as he has explored many regions of Canada and other countries in Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America.

In this first eclectic collection of stories, he draws on his rich experience with archaeological studies, teaching and travels, reaching out to the people, wildlife, and new adventure opportunities in northern Canadian regions.