Running Free by Larry Semchuk. A Book Review

by Gillean Daffern on February 9, 2012

Subtitled “The Wild Horses of Alberta’s East Slopes,” this book is a loving look at the magnificent animals we always hope to glimpse while hiking the Ghost, Elbow and Sheep areas of Kananaskis Country. It is mainly  a book of photographs — Larry has some phenomonal shots— taken at all times of the year in the foothills west of Calgary. I particularly  like the  gallery of the various bands and their members. The text plays a secondary role, detailing their history and lifestyle, much of it learned through acute observation.

Wild Horses of Alberta

The book ends with a plea for their protection. WHOAS (Wild Horses of Alberta  Society) “has lobbied the Provincial Government  for  years to give these wild horses the same protection as other wild species, or to create a sanctuary for them. Their proposals  have fallen on deaf ears with the Department  of Sustainable Resources [SRD] in this government.” I urge you to look at their website to see how you can help change things around.

Books are available at all Chapters-Indigo stores. Elsewhere in Calgary: Galleria Arts and Crafts, Pages, Owls Nest and Logos Books. In Bragg Creek: One of a Kind Gallery. In Okotoks: Hallmark-Rafters. In Canmore: Cafe Books. In Turner Valley: Coyote Moon. In Longview: Navajo Mug. In Cochrane: Bentley Books. In Nanton: Willow Creek Forge Gallery and Because I said So Books.

You can meet Larry at book signings at Chapter-Indigo.

  • Macleod Trail Feb 11, 11 am–4 pm
  • Chinook Feb Feb 18/19, 11–4
  • Cross Iron Mills March 4, 11–4

 

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{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }

thepassionatehiker February 13, 2012 at 7:54 pm

Seeing a large group of wild horses in the meadows of Quirk Creek one sunny day two summers ago was one of the highlights of a memorable trip to Forgetmenot Mountain – with an overnight stay at the appropriately named (and isolated) Wildhorse campsite.

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