This book is based on the true story of a legendary figure living in Talkeetna, Alaska, and his unusual relationship and encounters with “The Big One,” one of the largest grizzly bears Alaska has ever seen.
 
World Famous, Steve Mahay, affectionately known as “River”, moved to Alaska from New York to experience living in the bush, in the early seventies. He homesteaded 10 miles from the village of Talkeetna, building his cabin with an axe, and traveled in the winter by dog sled, and in the summer by riverboat. He survived without electricity or running water, by trapping furs, working on the slope and hunting his food that consisted of bear, moose and fish. He then built an extremely successful business called Mahay's Riverboat Service, offering Jet Boat Adventures that introduce tourists to an educational and exciting slice of the rugged lifestyle, while helping to put the tranquil village of Talkeetna on the map. He is the first and only person to survive and successfully navigate the Talkeetna Canyon.

He also conquered Devil's Canyon, the “Mount Everest” of whitewater, a particularly treacherous strip of the Susitna River, in a 27-foot inboard jet boat. You will read of his encounters with bears, many near death incidents on the river, as well as numerous search, rescue and recovery missions. You will feel you are with him when the Alaska State Troopers call and ask him to respond to emergency situations to save the lives of dozens of individuals. River has even been commended by the Governor of Alaska for his heroic and dangerous adventures as he “Demonstrated the type of dedication, selflessness, and bravery that so exemplifies the true “Spirit of Alaska”. Experience the thrills of one mans daring life in the Alaskan bush, as you read of his life and riverboat experiences, which have even been videotaped and shown on the Discovery Channel. Read about the awesome beauty of Alaska and her untamed wilderness, as well as feel you are there with River Mahay, experiencing the force of mighty waves, mammoth bears, and making history with one man who defeats the many challenges of nature. River Mahay is the “Spirit of of Alaska”. This is a must read for all ages who want a modern day hero to assist in experiencing life to the fullest.

14.95 Softbound Available JUNE 2007



Above article was written and published in the Anchorage Daily News in 2007, by reporter Melodie Wright.