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Drury Lane Books and community members help celebrate the release of "Last Entry Point" by Joe Friedrichs with an author talk, a book signing, and refreshments

May 07, 2024 09:28AM ● By Content Editor

Photo: Friedrichs welcomes guests to the event. He expressed gratitude to the families of the victims and to Captain Rick Slatten, head of the St. Louis County Rescue Squad, whose jurisdiction covers a large part of the BWCAW. All photos by Haley Brickner. 


By Haley Brickner for Boreal Community Media - May 7, 2024


On May 4, 2024, Drury Lane Books hosted a book release for Last Entry Point: Stories of Danger and Death in the Boundary Waters by local journalist and author Joe Friedrichs. In his book, Friedrichs shares tales of tragedy in the Boundary Waters and guides how to avoid worst-case scenarios.

The event began outside on the beach behind Drury Lane Books with a welcome from the author. Friedrichs expressed gratitude to the loved ones of those who passed away for speaking with him, and his hope that this book honors their stories. He also thanked Rick Slatten, Captain of the St. Louis County Rescue Squad, whose consultation and involvement made this book possible.

Following the welcoming remarks, Friedrichs enlisted several friends to reenact two of the scenarios from the book. The scenarios ended on a cliffhanger, the author encouraging people to read the book to find out the ending.

 The first reenactment depicted the victim being eaten by a wolf in the BWCAW.


The second reenactment depicted two paddlers being tossed from their canoe into dangerously cold waters.


 Another reenactment scene, helped along by friends of the author.


The event then moved indoors to Drury Lane Books, where guests were welcomed with an impressive charcuterie spread and the opportunity to meet the author, have their books signed, and share stories of survival and close calls in the BWCAW. The event had a warm atmosphere, despite the chilling weather and subject matter of the book.


 Guests make their way inside Drury Lane Books for a meet and greet with the author.


 Author Joe Freidrichs interacts with each person in line.


Guests were treated to an impressive charcuterie spread.


Rick Slatten, Captain of the St. Louis County Rescue Squad, explains the steps involved when someone goes missing.


To learn more about Last Entry Point, visit the Minnesota Historical Society Press site here.

Purchase the book from Drury Lane Books here.


Related: Drury Lane Books in Grand Marais Announces 2024 Author Talks Events

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