Shandaken, New York: A Pictorial History Book

Our National Parks is a collection of essays that John Muir wrote for The Atlantic. I agree with many reviewers who have described Muir as "verbose." However, hidden among the pages of botanical descriptions are delightful stories about his encounters with bears, hermits, earthquakes, avalanches, and even a tired mule. My favorite story, when Muir tried to convince Ralph Waldo Emerson to camp with him in Yosemite, is the source of his famous quote, "The mountains are calling." Anyone who has visited---or plans to visit---Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Yosemite, or Sequoia would enjoy reading these essays.