In an intriguing mix of memoir and philosophy, a veteran guide shares what he learned from navigating the world’s most challenging rivers. By blending the art of running rapids with the practice of Tai Chi, he found ways to row whitewater with grace while staying calm amid chaos.

“Uplifting, soul-stirring, exhilarating! …John French’s brilliant writing has a beautiful, relatable clarity and a poetry that explains his growth-filled journey and puts you right in the boat with oars in hand, in the zone, in the flow, running the rapids.” ~ William McGinnis, Author of Whitewater Rafting, The Guide’s Guide Augmented: Reflections on Professional River Guiding.

River runners need instinct and skill to meet the demands of split-second timing and adrenaline-pumping fear. This book offers lessons for the novice that take years to learn. The journeyman rower will find a new perspective for running rapids and the old master will recognize skills honed over the years. Shore-bound readers will experience the thrill of a wild and exotic sport.
• How do you read water?
• Prepare to perform?
• Find the zone?
• Row with grace?
• Harness fear?

These are questions for which every river runner must eventually find an answer, and for anyone seeking to push boundaries to live life at full capacity.