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Paddle Lunenburg-Queens: An Adventure Guide for Canoeists and Kayakers

 by Sheena Masson

Lunenburg-Queens Recreation Co-ordinators/Directors Association - 151 pages

Cost: $22.00

Softcover

ISBN-09683017-0-3               

A Paddler's 'Must-Have' Guide!  

reviewed by Gary Hartlen

Sheena Masson dipped her paddle across Lunenburg and Queens Counties with gusto and fervour as she prepared for this lively book on canoeing and kayaking. Her previous experience of writing about the waterways of Annapolis County had given her credibility in the field in Nova Scotia.  It had also introduced her to a valued colleague, Jim Todd, Cartographer. This union of graphics and textual advice led to the creation of one of  the best "how to" books on the subject available today.

Masson's background as a certified paddling instructor solidifies the text which accompanies the numerous maps.  She shows an ease with her subject, combining the types of experience her readers need with practical suggestions for all the locations considered in the writing. She divides the types of waterways into three - Ocean Routes, Lake Routes and River Routes. For each of these routes, Sheena defines the level of competence needed in her suggested approaches.

The book itself is a winner!  It is coil bound and is sub-divided by the
type of paddling trip anticipated.  There are eleven 'Ocean Routes', eleven 'Lake Routes' and nine 'River Routes' discussed.  Each trip has an accompanying map. Each map has a number of clearly marked access points for launching a canoe or kayak.  Each trip starts with a summary of the scene.  Sheena lists 'Skill Level'; 'Time Required'; 'Distances' ( in km. ); 'Portages Required' and 'Start and Finish Points'.  Then a detailed description of the entire outing are reviewed.  Sheena and company then highlight the entire Journey;  e.g. rapids, points of interest and accommodations.  The maps are outstanding! They perfectly illustrate the text which Masson has so lovingly prepared.  

The book is bound so that it can be taken on the trip and easily consulted.  References to other important sources are readily given in the accompanying notes. It can easily double as a local touring reader since the maps and text are so detailed.

Safety is emphasized with each presentation.  It is a given that the participants taking the tour will apply the basic safety rules to their canoeing and kayaking adventures but the text reminds them of the importance of doing so.  A reminder of fire safety rules in a rural and wild area is also part of the valuable advice contained in this work.

Sheena Masson and Jim Todd deserve our greatest congratulations for fashioning such an instructive, attractive and practical canoeing/kayaking guide.  Even non-boaters are drawn into the process by the exact mix of maps and written advice.  If you paddle, this book is a "must have" at the modest twenty-two dollar price tag.

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