“I thoroughly enjoyed reading Landry’s introspective reasons for writing her book. Turning dreams into reality is a rare accomplishment. Her descriptions of facts from a bygone era, paint vivid pictures of simpler times, enriching the narrative of wilderness life. Landry’s descriptions of the many characters in her story make them jump off the page. It is a creative and interesting work; that will have you nestled in your favorite chair, enjoying a cup of coffee; and not rising until you finish both.”
— Karen Howard
“What a fascinating journey. An inspiring story of a couple’s courage to live their dream. I sometimes felt as if I were there looking on. I was sad to finish it; I wanted more. It is an excellent book and I plan to re-read it to absorb the experience more deeply.”
— Joanne Kearsey
“A journey to completeness. The account was well-written, a testament to the author’s enduring fascination with a life in the woods.”
— Eleanor Hines
“This book is engrossing, taking us on a roller coaster ride of emotions pulling the reader in with vivid imagery.”
— Jacques Foyer
Finding Peace in the Wilderness
Journey to a Simpler Life
This is a book for anyone who’s ever longed for a life less ordinary. For the dreamers, the doers, the ones who’ve lived it, and the ones still planning their escape.
Imagine what happens when you cram a restless trapper, his middle-aged Montreal wife, and an unsuspecting cat into a tiny 600 square-foot cabin north of nowhere—Finding Peace in the Wilderness–Journey to a Simpler Life chronicles the adventures and misadventures of two unlikely homesteaders surviving deep in the overgrown woods of Northern Ontario Canada.
Diane Landry grew up amidst the bustling streets of Montreal, always dreaming of forests, rivers, and unbroken silence. A complete stranger in a phone conversation said, “I know a guy who would be perfect for you; can I give him your phone number?” Diane’s answer fueled the biggest adventure she would ever embark on, landing her on the southern fringe of the James Bay Frontier.
Surviving without electricity, running water, or road access, Landry shares a life of hardship, breathtaking beauty, and unexpected spiritual awakening, fueled by her faith in God. Rich with humor, resilience, and awe for nature, Finding Peace in the Wilderness is a powerful testament to the human spirit—and to the idea that it’s never too late to find home.
“Your book is the first I’ve read in a long time just for the sake of reading. I had forgotten the pleasure of being drawn into a story, so I thank you for that, too. This book stirred the same feelings I had as a child reading Little House in the Big Woods.” Diane Landry has thrown open the cabin door and welcomed us in. Bravo.
— Michelle Anderson, Adventurer and Author