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Learn more about archery in Toronto by visiting archerytoronto.ca, or the Toronto Public Archery Range Facebook page
or by joining the Canadian Toxophilite Society.

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Young Adult Fiction with Archery

  1. "Graceling" by Kristin Cashore: This fantasy novel follows Katsa, who possesses a deadly Grace, including exceptional archery skills.

  2. "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins: In this dystopian adventure, the protagonist Katniss Everdeen's archery skills become essential for her survival in the deadly Hunger Games arena.

  3. "The Ranger's Apprentice" series by John Flanagan: This fantasy adventure series follows the young Ranger's apprentice, Will, who becomes proficient in archery as part of his training to protect the kingdom.

  4. "The Green Ember" series by S.D. Smith: This fantasy adventure series features Heather and Picket, two young rabbits who train in archery and join the resistance against an evil empire.

  5. "The Ruins of Gorlan" (Ranger's Apprentice Book 1) by John Flanagan: In this first book of the Ranger's Apprentice series, Will's archery skills and training are emphasized as he becomes a Ranger's apprentice.

  6. "Fablehaven" series by Brandon Mull: Although not the central focus, archery is a skill practiced by some of the characters in this fantasy series.

  7. "The School for Good and Evil" by Soman Chainani: This fantasy novel follows Agatha and Sophie, who attend a school for fairy tale characters. Archery is one of the skills taught to the students.

  8. "The Longbow Girl" by Linda Davies: This adventure novel follows Merry Owen, a skilled archer who discovers a buried treasure and embarks on a quest to save her family's farm.

  9. "The Penderwicks at Point Mouette" by Jeanne Birdsall: In this contemporary novel, the character Batty learns archery during a summer vacation, and her archery practice leads to unexpected adventures.

  10. "The Lost Hero" (The Heroes of Olympus series) by Rick Riordan: While not the central focus, archery and the character's use of a bow and arrow play a part in the story's adventure.

See Also

Prehistoric Fiction Books with Archery

Historical Fiction Books with Archery

Fantasy Books with Archery

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

Biography of Fred Bear: Archery Icon and Bowyer Extraordinaire

Early Life and Love for the Outdoors

Fred Bear, an archery legend and renowned bowyer, was born on March 5, 1902, in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, USA. From a young age, Fred displayed a natural affinity for the outdoors and a deep fascination with hunting and archery. Growing up in a rural setting, he developed a strong bond with nature and wildlife, which would later become the driving force behind his passion for archery.

Discovering Archery

It was during his teenage years that Fred Bear first encountered archery. He found a second-hand archery set at a local store and purchased it with his hard-earned savings. Little did he know that this seemingly ordinary purchase would ignite a lifelong passion and alter the course of archery history.

Fred honed his archery skills tirelessly, spending countless hours practicing and perfecting his technique. His dedication paid off, and he quickly became a skilled archer, renowned among his peers for his accuracy and skill in the field.

Archery Adventures and the Birth of Bear Archery

In the 1930s, Fred Bear embarked on his first bowhunting adventure, a pursuit that would further deepen his love for the sport. He traveled across the United States and beyond, hunting various game species, including deer, elk, and bear, using his handcrafted bows and arrows. These experiences not only fueled his passion for archery but also provided him with valuable insights into the art of bow-making.

In 1933, Fred Bear met and befriended Charles Piper, a fellow archer and bowyer. This meeting would prove to be a turning point in his life. Together, they established the Bear Products Company in Grayling, Michigan, with the vision of producing high-quality archery equipment for enthusiasts like themselves. The company later became known as Bear Archery, a name that would become synonymous with excellence in the archery industry.

Innovations and Contributions to Archery

Fred Bear's craftsmanship and innovation revolutionized the world of archery. He tirelessly experimented with bow designs and materials, seeking to create bows that were not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. His dedication to craftsmanship and performance resulted in a line of bows that were renowned for their smooth draw, accuracy, and reliability.

One of his most significant contributions was the development of the takedown recurve bow. This innovative design allowed archers to dismantle the bow for easy transportation and storage, making it a favorite among bowhunters and enthusiasts who valued portability.

Archery Advocacy and Legacy

Fred Bear was not only an exceptional bowyer but also a passionate advocate for archery and bowhunting. Through his adventures, writings, and films, he brought the beauty and excitement of archery to a broader audience. He became a prominent ambassador for the sport, inspiring countless individuals to take up archery and appreciate the wonders of the outdoors.

His charisma, enthusiasm, and genuine love for archery endeared him to people worldwide. Fred Bear's influence on the archery community was immense, and his legacy lives on through the continued success of Bear Archery and the countless archers who shoot his bows.

Passing and Honors

On April 27, 1988, Fred Bear passed away at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape archery and bowhunting to this day. In recognition of his significant contributions to archery and outdoor pursuits, he was posthumously inducted into the Archery Hall of Fame in 1991.

Fred Bear's impact on archery, his pioneering spirit, and his passion for the great outdoors make him an enduring and beloved figure in the annals of archery history. He will forever be remembered as the bowyer who not only crafted exceptional bows but also inspired generations of archers to follow their passion and embrace the call of the wild.

Sunday, August 20, 2023

Adventure Fiction Books with Archery

  1. "The Longbow Girl" by Linda Davies: This adventure novel follows Merry Owen, a skilled archer who discovers a buried treasure and embarks on a quest to save her family's farm.

  2. "The Last Archer" by S.D. Smith: Part of "The Green Ember" series, this adventure book centers around Jo Shanks, an archer who joins the resistance against an evil empire.

  3. "The Archer's Cup" by Michael Cadnum: In this adventure tale, Will, a talented archer, sets out on a perilous journey to fulfill his destiny.

  4. "The Archer's Son" by M.K. Hume: This historical adventure novel follows the life of Arthur, son of an archer, as he navigates the treacherous political landscape of medieval England.

  5. "Archer's Quest" by Linda Sue Park: This adventure book features Kevin, who travels back in time to the time of Robin Hood and experiences archery adventures.

See Also

Prehistoric Fiction Books with Archery

Historical Fiction Books with Archery

Fantasy Books with Archery

Saturday, August 5, 2023

Biography of Ben Pearson: Master Bowyer and Archery Pioneer

Early Life and Apprenticeship

Ben Pearson, a legendary figure in the world of archery, was born on March 15, 1898, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, USA. From an early age, he showed a keen interest in archery, often crafting makeshift bows and arrows with the guidance of his father. Fascinated by the art of bow-making, young Ben sought to refine his skills and learn the craft from accomplished bowyers.

At the age of 15, Ben Pearson embarked on an apprenticeship with a local bowyer. Under the tutelage of his mentor, he honed his craftsmanship and developed a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in creating high-quality bows. With an unwavering commitment to his craft, Ben quickly gained a reputation for his precision and dedication to perfection.

Founding Ben Pearson Archery

After years of dedicated learning and perfecting his craft, Ben Pearson decided to take his passion for archery to the next level. In 1927, at the age of 29, he founded his own archery company, "Ben Pearson Archery," in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. His vision was to create top-notch bows and archery equipment that would be cherished by archers worldwide.

From the outset, the company gained recognition for its commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and quality. Ben Pearson's bows were known for their exceptional performance, durability, and smooth shooting, quickly winning over the hearts of archers across the country. As the demand for his bows grew, so did the company's reputation.

Innovations and Contributions to Archery

Ben Pearson was not content with merely crafting traditional bows; he constantly sought to push the boundaries of archery technology. Throughout his career, he made numerous significant contributions to the archery world, earning him the reputation of a true archery pioneer.

One of his most notable contributions was the introduction of the takedown bow in the late 1930s. This innovative design allowed archers to disassemble their bows into three parts, making it easier to transport and store them. The takedown bow design revolutionized archery equipment and quickly became popular among archers who needed versatility and convenience.

Archery Legacy and Impact

Ben Pearson's passion for archery was not limited to his business endeavors. He was deeply involved in promoting archery as a sport and actively supported various archery organizations. His dedication to the sport earned him widespread respect and admiration within the archery community.

Throughout his life, Ben Pearson remained committed to producing top-quality bows, and his dedication to craftsmanship never wavered. His bows became sought-after items, used by numerous archery champions and enthusiasts alike. The name "Ben Pearson" became synonymous with excellence in archery.

Legacy and Honors

Ben Pearson's contributions to archery were recognized in his lifetime, and he received numerous awards and accolades for his innovations and craftsmanship. In honor of his significant contributions to the sport, he was inducted into the Archery Hall of Fame in 1974.

Final Years and Passing

After decades of dedication to his craft and the archery community, Ben Pearson passed away on December 21, 1971, at the age of 73. However, his legacy lives on through his company, the impact of his innovations, and the countless archers who continue to cherish and use his bows.

Today, the name "Ben Pearson Archery" continues to be associated with quality, innovation, and a deep love for the art of archery. As a true pioneer and master bowyer, Ben Pearson's influence on the world of archery will be felt for generations to come.

Monday, July 31, 2023

Prehistoric Fiction Books with Archery

  1. "Clan of the Cave Bear" by Jean M. Auel: Set during the Paleolithic era, this book follows Ayla, a young Cro-Magnon girl, who is taken in by a Neanderthal tribe. Archery and hunting are crucial skills in this prehistoric society.

  2. "The Inheritors" by William Golding: This novel explores the interactions between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens, and while not primarily focused on archery, hunting and survival skills, including the use of bows and arrows, are depicted.

  3. "People of the Wolf" by Kathleen O'Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear: The first book in the "First North Americans" series, it is set during the Ice Age and features the adventures of a young hunter named Rumbler.

  4. "The Plains of Passage" by Jean M. Auel: Part of the Earth's Children series, this book continues Ayla's journey, and her archery skills and ability to use the bow and arrow are highlighted.

  5. "The Shelters of Stone" by Jean M. Auel: Another installment in the Earth's Children series, archery continues to be a significant aspect of Ayla's life as she navigates prehistoric times.

More books by Kathleen O'Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear:

  1. "People of the Sea": Part of the "First North Americans" series, this book is set during the Archaic period and follows the story of Sees Far, a young woman who becomes a skilled archer and hunter.

  2. "People of the River": This book is another installment in the "First North Americans" series, focusing on a prehistoric culture along the Mississippi River. Archery and hunting are vital skills for the characters in this book.

  3. "People of the Lakes": Set in the Great Lakes region during the prehistoric era, this book features characters who rely on archery for hunting and sustenance.

  4. "People of the Lightning": This novel is part of the "First North Americans" series and is set in the prehistoric Southeastern United States. Archery is showcased as an important aspect of survival and tribal life.

  5. "People of the Owl": Set during the Late Woodland period in what is now West Virginia, this book follows the adventures of a young girl named Tslagi, who becomes skilled in archery as she tries to save her people.

  6. "People of the Raven": The book is part of the "First North Americans" series and is set in the Pacific Northwest during the late Ice Age. Archery is used for hunting and in inter-tribal conflicts.

 

See Also

Historical Fiction Books with Archery

Fantasy Books with Archery

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