Fred Nelson’s Nostalgic Canoe Adventure Memoir Set for Display at the 2026 Manila International Book Fair

Adventure readers need this opportunity to discover Fred Nelson’s compelling nonfiction book, “Challenge of the Ice: A Canoeing Adventure in the Wilderness of Northern Canada,” during the 2026 Manila International Book Fair, the Philippines’ longest- running and largest book fair, attracting more than 160,000 visitors, from publishers to authors to educators, and readers of all ages. The fair will be held from September 9-13 at the SMX Convention Center Manila

One of the expedition’s most harrowing moments unfolds on Hudson Bay, where six men battle freezing rain, powerful winds, and six-foot waves for hours from their canoes. But that is only part of the ordeal. Their three-week, 470-mile journey backtracks far to the west on the Thlewiaza River and takes them through some of Northern Canada’s most unforgiving wilderness. Along the way, they face a close encounter with a grizzly bear, shifting ice packs, dangerous rapids, thick fog, and relentless weather. Each challenge pushes the crew further, leaving readers to discover just how far their teamwork will carry them

“Challenge of the Ice” is just as compelling as the journey itself. Based on the meticulous logs and photos prepared by one of the crew, the late Gary Gnauck. With the blessing of Gary’s daughter, this unforgettable tribute to true wilderness survival was brought to publication. Which led to the Hollywood Book Reviews to describe as “A must-read non-fiction travel and nature book,”

Fred Nelson’s lifelong passion for canoeing began unexpectedly while he was a member of the Beavercreek Junior Chamber of Commerce. Nelson was asked to pose in a canoe for publicity photographs promoting an upcoming race on the Little Miami River. Although he had never paddled a canoe before, he soon found himself traveling twelve miles down the river—and capsizing three times along the way. Rather than discouraging him, the experience sparked a love of canoeing that would remain with him throughout his life

The Eagle Literary is proud to represent Fred Nelson to showcase his esteemed book at the Manila International Book Fair. Visitors to the fair are invited to explore his book, that provide an opportunity for a wider audience to discover stories shaped by surviving nature. You can find this book at stand number 2-107 under the exhibit of The Eagle Literary. It is also available on various online retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Alibris.

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Andrea Morrison

CEO

The Eagle Literary, LLC

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