4.22
"Coming Into the Country" by John McPhee is a compelling and immersive exploration of Alaska's vast wilderness and the individuals who call it home. First published in 1977, the book is a classic in the literature of Alaska and a must-read for anyone interested in the state's history, culture, and natural beauty. McPhee's writing is both lyrical and precise, capturing the majesty of Alaska's landscapes while also delving into the complexities of the people who live there. The book follows the author's travels through the state, from the bustling city of Anchorage to the remote wilderness of the Arctic tundra. Along the way, he meets a diverse cast of characters, including bush pilots, trappers, and Native Alaskans, each with their own unique stories to tell. One of the book's greatest strengths is its ability to convey the sheer scale and diversity of Alaska's wilderness. From the towering mountains of Denali to the vast wetlands of the Yukon Delta, McPhee brings the state's natural beauty to life in vivid detail. At the same time, he also explores the challenges and controversies facing Alaska's wilderness, from the threat of oil drilling to the complex issues surrounding Native Alaskan land claims. "Coming Into the Country" is not just a travelogue or a nature book, but a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of what it means to live in Alaska. McPhee's portraits of the people he meets are both compassionate and insightful, revealing the struggles, triumphs, and contradictions that define life in the state. In short, "Coming Into the Country" is a masterful work of literary journalism that captures the spirit of Alaska and its people. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or an armchair explorer, this book is sure to inspire and enlighten...
Stephen E. Ambrose
Undaunted Courage: Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West
Fans of 'Coming Into the Country' will appreciate 'Undaunted Courage' for its exploration of the American wilderness and the people who dared to venture into the unknown. This book tells the story of the Lewis and Clark expedition, a pivotal moment in the history of the United States.
Learn MorePeter Matthiessen
The Snow Leopard
Like 'Coming Into the Country', 'The Snow Leopard' is a meditation on the natural world and our place in it. This book tells the story of Matthiessen's journey to the Himalayas in search of the elusive snow leopard, offering a profound and moving exploration of the human experience.
Learn MoreCandice Millard
The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt's Darkest Journey
Fans of 'Coming Into the Country' will appreciate 'The River of Doubt' for its sense of adventure and exploration. This book tells the story of Theodore Roosevelt's harrowing journey down an uncharted river in the Amazon rainforest, offering a thrilling and inspiring look at the power of the human spirit.
Learn MoreElizabeth Gilbert
The Last American Man
Fans of 'Coming Into the Country' will appreciate 'The Last American Man' for its exploration of the human relationship to the land and the natural world. This book tells the story of Eustace Conway, a man who has dedicated his life to living off the land in the Appalachian Mountains, offering a thought-provoking and inspiring look at what it means to be truly self-sufficient.
Learn More