Within the Stillness: One Family's Winter on a Northern Trapline

Keith Olsen’s family lived through a harsh Canadian winter in an extremely remote location in northern Saskatchewan. The family’s determination turned the rugged wilderness into a modest home. From such a setting come the memories of a profound childhood, one in which simplicity and nature are the most nurturing aspects of the imagination.

"It was almost noon when we entered the portage. The fresh autumn air was still quite cool even though the sun was well up by this time. It was pleasant to see how the sunlight penetrated the thick forest of tall evergreens, giving light to an otherwise dark and damp part of the overland trail. The ground in this area was covered over in a thick layer of green moss, and a similar type called old man's beard hung down off the branches like sheets of light green tinsel. This part of the portage was spooky, but on parts of the trail where the deciduous trees were it was bright and vibrant, especially where the leaves hadn't fallen. It was there the sunlight caused an explosion of colour, shading each leaf in a different hue of autumn glory, and it made you feel warm and alive with excitement."

Awards:
Finalist. 2012 Saskatchewan Book Awards.