Publication date:
01 June 2020Length of book:
232 pagesPublisher
Lyons PressISBN-13: 9781493045570
In the second volume of the Secrets of the Forest series, Mark Warren addresses a wide range of what an outdoorsperson needs to know about fire such as:
- how to create it from scratch using three different methods (hand drill, bow drill, and fire-saw).
- which species of trees and dried winter weeds make good candidates for a fire kit.
- where to find tinder that can combust.
- how to construct a fail-proof pyre by mixing fast-burning fuel with dense hardwood.
- how to sustain a fire for the long term, including how to safely store a smoldering fire that can survive for several days.
The second half of the book is dedicated to storytelling and ceremony. Its main purpose is how to design stories that augment whatever lessons a teacher has in mind. Such stories can familiarize students with the fine points of archery, canoeing, tracking, stalking, and other crafts or skills. Borrowing from Native American traditions, Warren introduces dozens of ways for young outdoorspeople to build self-esteem and a deep connection with the forest. This volume contains more than 100 original activities.
“The content of the lessons in these books, and the classes that Mark teaches for my students is deeply rooted in a lifetime of experience. My students continually report that Mark’s classes were some of the most meaningful experiences they have had in college, and the relevancy of the lessons has proven to be invaluable in their personal and professional lives.” –Rob Dussler, PhD, professor of outdoor leadership, Young Harris College, Georgia
“Mark weaves together practical, easy-to-follow instructions with the rich history of local geography and the earliest inhabitants of the land.” –Becca Fernandez, Montessori teacher, Decatur, Georgia
“The knowledge gleaned from Mark’s top-notch training has assisted me in serving at-risk youth in Utah, teaching bushcraft skills in Tennessee, and trekking as a bear guide in Alaska. I am eternally thankful for my time spent learning the inner mysteries of the forest with him!” –John Gentry, wilderness educator, Robbins, Tennessee
“Mark weaves together practical, easy-to-follow instructions with the rich history of local geography and the earliest inhabitants of the land.” –Becca Fernandez, Montessori teacher, Decatur, Georgia
“The knowledge gleaned from Mark’s top-notch training has assisted me in serving at-risk youth in Utah, teaching bushcraft skills in Tennessee, and trekking as a bear guide in Alaska. I am eternally thankful for my time spent learning the inner mysteries of the forest with him!” –John Gentry, wilderness educator, Robbins, Tennessee