The Winds of Wendigo

About the Book

THE WINDS OF WENDIGO

Reflections On A Northern Ontario Heritage


In his spirited exploration of his rural past, author Ralph Gibbins revisits the Northern Ontario of his own youth and that of his pioneering parents and finds, in the lessons learned and the character traits inherited from those previous generations, a strength and wisdom missing in our world today.

Can we learn from the past?

Does the growing urbanization of modern day Canada -- and our subsequent loss of contact with the natural world -- effect our health and happiness?

Combining history, personal experience, and stories remembered from his boyhood, Gibbins answers 'yes' to both questions, and with the style of a natural-born storyteller treats the reader to his reasons why.

Though local in setting, the stories in this highly readable memoir, evoke the early development of much of North America.

"The past is but the beginning of a beginning,
and all that is and has been is but the twilight of the dawn"

H.G. Wells
'The Discovery of the Future'


This Is What Readers Are Saying About The Winds Of Wendigo

The book is much more than a memoir or history book. It contains wonderful stories and valuable philosophical points to ponder. It has lead to many long discussions with family and friends as your information and perspective on everything from Health Care, Police, Prescription Drugs, Social Assistance, Gun Control, Hunting/Fishing/trapping policies, and so on have given rise to good dialogue. I totally agree that "Life is what you make it", "Attitude is a choice" and a life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks." My dad, who is 88, really enjoyed reading it also. He grew up in Nova Scotia, fishing with his father and Indian guides. Nancy Dickinson, Collingwood On. Educator and Ski Instructor

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This book not only brings back memories to people who are familiar with the areas covered but will promote an exchange of opinions on policing, health care, gun control, hunting and fishing, trapping etc. An extremely good read. Howard Ireland, Sudbury On Retired Police Officer

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The book is absolutely superb! Not only is there so much information but such a wonderful personal story. We feel that we have been there and that it is part of our own heritage. Mary Lou and Bill Joyce, St John N. B. Retired Teachers

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BRAVO!!! Ralph- I have thoroughly enjoyed every page. I can’t help the reoccurring thought, why do we live in the city? This is a question I ask myself every time I go on a holiday. I seem to get so much enjoyment from travel especially when enjoying nature (what my holidays seem to be about). I hope that I can capture one percent of the rich experiences that you have. Thank you for sharing your incredible memories with us. Nancy Jarrell, Mississauga On. Marketing Representative,

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Bring me another copy of your book. I would like to send it to a friend in Germany who I know will enjoy it. Ralph, it's a wonderful book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and agree with you 100% on the issues. People have to get back to nature. They have lost sight in today's world. As you know, I take these hiking holidays and I am at my happiest when I am immersed in nature. There were so many instances and stories in your book that I could relate well to. My mother told me so many stories of her own pioneering family so I could relate very well to the stories of your grandparents. Ann Ripley, Oakville On. Supervisor, Medical