Vanished Beyond the Map: The Mystery of Lost Explorer Hubert Darrell
4.7 | 246 ratings
Price: 21.26
Last update: 03-28-2026
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- PhilomathA compelling story of a forgotten hero of the Canadian northIn this compelling read, adventurer Adam Shoalts tells the story of Hubert Darrell, a largely forgotten but truly heroic explorer of the Canadian north. The first part of the book is biographical. Although based on Shoalts’ own research, he remains in the background as the knowledgeable narrator. However, in mid-book the narrative shifts to a first person tale of Shoalts’ experiences following Darrell’s paths through the wilds of the Canadian north as he tries to discover where and why Darrell vanished. The two parts of the book knit neatly together and the entire read is engrossing. Photos at the end of the edition helped me truly visualize the country and the author. I suggest checking them out while reading, rather than waiting until the end as I did.
- Keith FordinformativeI thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Especially offering information from people who knew of his abilities and passion. I would recommend this book to anyone.
- Kurt WalserGreat readLove the Adam Shoalts books. He writes a good story with impressive detail. Adam's abilities in surviving rough "beyon the maps" is truly amazing. His ability to pull records and first hand encounters from the folks who really new Darrell, shows his unbiased search for the truth. He makes very valid conclusions in a very logical and calculated way. I never heard of Hubert Darrell. Thanks to Adam`s hard work, a truly great explorer has been brought to the attention of the world. Darrell was entitled to great renown but sadly was not given his proper due. Thanks Adam for revealing this amazing individual to the uninformed folks like me. 2 enthusiastic thumbs up!!!
- Rebecca HillRiveting and CaptivatingWhat an adventure! I found myself finding some wander lust after reading parts of this book. The life of Hubert Darrell was one full of great discoveries, solitude, and amazing feats.
What he was able to accomplish was nothing short of miraculous at times, surprising many. However, he was able to build relationships among the native peoples, which would save his life more than once.
This was such an amazing read. I was captivated by the descriptions of the areas that he would have traversed, with the rugged terrains, frozen landscapes, and inhospitable conditions. That he could just disappear, in that vast wilderness, is not entirely surprising. He was so enigmatic, and navigated areas that many could not, as evidenced by the Mounties that disappeared on the trail. That such a man could vanish, walk off the pages of history without definitive answers is a loss.
There were so many areas of this book that I enjoyed. He was a larger than life personality, and it was a tragedy that he was lost. Hopefully one day, we will have firm answers. - DavidA Very Enjoyable ReadIf you enjoy stories about Arctic explorers than this is a book for you. This book is part history lesson, part biography of a little known explorer, Hubert Darrell, a detective story, and the adventures of a present day explorer, the author, Adam Shoalts.
I highly recommend this book, as well as all of the author's other books. - Frank J.The Canadian Indiana Jones does it againI always enjoy his books and this is no exception
- NameEnjoyed it.Enjoyed it.
- LizzAnother Point Not Often Mentioned.I will not repeat all the wonderful accolades (most deserved) that have been covered by the other reviews. The one point I want to mention is that Adam Shoalts has a fabulous sense of humor. Part of the fun of reading Vanished Beyond The Map is that every once in a while, you will find yourself, quite suddenly, laughing out loud! I've decided to purchase all of Adams' books so I can have them on hand when friends ask me to recommend a good book to them.