The Emerald Mile
The Emerald Mile
Book Brief
448
Book • Nonfiction
Grand Canyon • 1980s
2013
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Emerald Mile by Kevin Fedarko recounts the story of three men who, in 1983, navigated a wooden dory named The Emerald Mile through the floodwaters of the Grand Canyon in an effort to set a speed record for the fastest boat ride down the Colorado River, exploring themes of adventure, environmentalism, and humanity's relationship with nature.
Adventurous
Inspirational
Suspenseful
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
15,848 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Kevin Fedarko's The Emerald Mile receives high praise for its compelling narrative, vivid descriptions, and thorough historical context. Critics commend its ability to weave adventure with environmental and cultural insights. However, some note that its detailed exposition can occasionally slow the pace. Overall, it's celebrated as an engaging and informative read.
Who Should Read The Emerald Mile?
Readers who find adventure narratives captivating and appreciate rich historical context will relish The Emerald Mile by Kevin Fedarko. Fans of Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild or Sebastian Junger’s The Perfect Storm will similarly enjoy the gripping tale of the fastest boat ride down the Colorado River during the 1983 flood.
15,848 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Kevin Fedarko's The Emerald Mile was awarded the National Outdoor Book Award for Outdoor Literature, celebrating its captivating narrative about one of the most daring river runs in history.
The Emerald Mile explores themes of adventure, natural beauty, and man’s relationship with the environment, gaining acclaim not just from readers interested in adventure sports but also those fascinated by environmental history and conservation.
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448
Book • Nonfiction
Grand Canyon • 1980s
2013
Adult
18+ years
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