Happy Jólabókaflód

Jólabókaflód or “Christmas Book Flood” is an Icelandic tradition where literary presents are exchanged and enjoyed on Christmas Eve. In Iceland, publishing houses retain new titles until the Christmas season, making many gifts exchanged the newly released and eagerly anticipated books of the season, which are quickly splayed open and enjoyed by the fire with hot beverages and simple snacks. Here are some hunting, fishing, and outdoors book recommendations to consider putting under your tree.

Green Hills of Africa by Ernest Hemingway (1935)

Originally serialized in Scribner’s Magazine, this lyrical ode to big-game hunting in eastern Africa showcases a hunter’s passion in a dwindling landscape while on safari with his wife.
MSRP: $25

Trout Bum by John Gierach (1986)

A series of essays by a sharp-penned fly-fishing philosopher whose pursuit of tight lines within the Rocky Mountains is more of a vocation than a hobby.
MSRP: $21

Beyond Remembering: The Collected Poems of Al Purdy by Al Purdy (2000)

Canada’s bard hand-curated this posthumously published compendium of his life’s work, with forewords by Margaret Atwood and Michael Ondaatje.
MSRP: $45

Alone Against the North: An Expedition into the Unknown by Adam Shoalts (2016)

Explorer and geographer Adam Shoalts portages the Hudson Bay Lowlands, trekking alone through a vast expanse to prove, in part, that there are still wilds worth seeking.
MSRP: $23

The Hunter Chef Cookbook by Michael Hunter (2020)

A photographic journey of hunting, fishing, and foraging through over 100 recipes, with a focus on butchery and lesser-appreciated meats.
MSRP: $40

Want more recos? Consider visiting your local library, taking out a couple books of interest, and signing up for their newsletter. I’m increasingly awed by the services and bookish information offered at mine.

Originally published in the Nov.-Dec. 2025 issue of Ontario Out Of Doors

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