We are often told not to judge a book by its cover, but when the cover is truly stunning it’s difficult not to. The cover of A Brief Time in Heaven is beautiful. It promises adventure on a northern lake, with a canoe in the foreground awaiting travellers. The book lives up to its cover, with Blazino’s wonderful conversational tone. This voice carries over into the chapter headings, such as “Wonderful Wildlife Encounters,” “Canoeing Adventures with Children,” and “Close Calls…Tempting Fate.” These are but a few of the areas to explore. Each chapter includes memories and photographs linked to the theme. It is the best kind of travel writing, allowing an escape to the wilderness without leaving your sofa.
[rating:4]
– Ruth Hamlin-Douglas
