Pacific Northwest Books - Page 3

Nights of Ice: True Stories of Disaster and Survival on Alaska's High Seas

Spike Walker

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 13 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

entertaining subject--marginal writing 3 out of 5 stars.
7 of 12 people found this review helpful.

I read this on a trip to Alaska, so I got into it's "spirit" on location. The stories are quite entertaining, but when writers make junior-varsity comments and mistakes, it makes me wonder about the veracity of the actual stories:
1) Does everyone see their entire lives flash before their eyes when they are near death?
2) Some guy's one-year old child asks him if he is Santa Claus upon his return from an ordeal at sea. Clearly Spike has never spent time with a one-year old; not only can very few of them speak more than a word or two, but this one is so eloquent and knowledgeable that he thinks the old man is Kris himself!
3) The helicopter pilot makes it to a "small village airport" just before running out of fuel (which means it must have been between 5-10 minutes from the rescue locale since they only had 30 minutes of fuel left before the rescue attempt(hmmmm), but somehow a C-130 can get in and out of there to send them home while the chopper gets an inspection (hmmm hmmmm).
I'll leave it at that...

Editorial Review:

Spike Walker has spent more than a decade fishing in the subzero hell of Alaska's coastal waters. This collection--coming on the heels of his classic memoir Working on the Edge--is a testament to the courage of those who brave nature's wrath each fishing season, and to the uncontrolled power of nature herself.. The crewmen in Nights of Ice face a constant onslaught of roaring waves, stories-high swells, and life-stealing ice. Tested by the elements, these seamen battle for their vessels and their lives, on every page evincing a level of courage and a will to live seldom found elsewhere in modern society.

The Thirtymile Fire: A Chronicle of Bravery and Betrayal

John N. Maclean

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 14 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

The Thirtymile Fire by John N. Maclean 4 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

This is a comprehensive review of the ThirtyMile Wildland Fire in 2001 that claimed the lives of four Federal Forest Service firefighters compiled from all the survivors, investigators, government officials, witnesses, and families affected by this incident. The Official Report of this fire laid blame on the firefighters themselves for the loss of there lives, and the report made was taylored to protect upper-level managers and the Forest Service from blame.

Mr. Maclean sorts through all of it and presents a clear picture of the events that transpired before, during, and after the incident where the time of the fire, the lack of resources, communication breakdowns, environmental rules, fatique, failure to follow fire safety rules, and tunnel vision lead to this tragedy. This book addresses questions that were not asked in the official report. It goes onto describe what happened to those in charge, and what did not happen to those administrators involved.

As a result of this fire, along with the 1994 Storm King Fire that killed 14 federal wildland firefighters, this book describes how through legislation the investigation responsibilities for large incidents shifted from in-house Forest Service to unprepared and unqualified outside government investigators. As a result of this political shift an overzealous US Attorney leveled four charges of manslaughter and five charges of lying to investigators about what happened at the fire, almost five years after the incident happened.

Mr. Maclean also chronicles the almost absolute abandonment of the firefightes and survivors involved in this incident, the heartless measures the Forest Service showed to families involved, and the failure of the wildland fire system involving the US Forest Service.

This book is important to all firefighters because the potential exists now for Fire Incident Commanders to be criminally charged if an injury or fatality occurs on a wildland fire incident, and what it may lead to in the future. Anyone involved in wildland / forest firefighting should read this book and learn from it.

Editorial Review:

“Pitilessly compelling, the sort of saga devoured in one horrified sitting.”—National Geographic Adventure

The Thirtymile Fire in the North Cascade Range near the Canadian border of Washington began as a simple mop-up operation; in a few hours, a series of catastrophic errors led to the entrapment and deaths of four members of the fire crew—two teenage girls and two young men. Each had brought order and meaning to their lives by joining the firefighting world. Then the very flames they pursued turned on them, extinguishing their lives. 

Weaving together the astonishing stories told by the fire’s witnesses and, later, the victims’ family members and the response to the official reports, John N. Maclean creates a riveting account of the deadly Thirtymile Fire and the controversy and recriminations that raged in its aftermath.

The Exploration of the Colorado River and its Canyons (Nature Library, Penguin)

John Wesley Powell

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 16 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Bold Explorer 4 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

I got this book to read while I was rafting the Grand Canyon. It was well worth it. John Wesley Powell's description of his unbelivable expedition helped me put into words the spectacular scenes that makes up the Grand Canyon. I recommend this book to anyone who is considering traveling down the Colorado River.

A must for every Grand Canyon River Rafter 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

After I've been down the Colorado through the Canyon 3 times and after having read Stantons "Colorado River Controversies", I had to read the original Diary of Powell. This guy, though daring, did not stick fully to the truth in his diaries, but the descriptions are overwhelming and I loved every word. After all, he was still a youngster in those days - a daredevil. We seem to forget this, as we only know the picture of him in his old days. But I like his guide Sumner better.

How can you rate such a classic?

This Should Be The 1st Book You Read on The Grand Canyon 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

Although this one-armed Major from the Civil War has a tendency to marginalize the dangers, turmoil, and strenuous labor that was required to forge the uncharted waters of the Grand Canyon in 1869, you definitely "get it". His descriptions are more of a nuts and bolts account, never waxing poetic nor adding philosophical banter. Through trial and error, they learned how to read the geology and how they could predict what may lie ahead by the types and angles of the strata that formed the river's edge. However, knowing what was ahead only added to the tension and they still had to make crucial last minute decisions, sometimes too late. I was totally enthralled with this adventure and couldn't put the book down.

Editorial Review:

John Powell's gripping account of his 3-month 1869 expedition to explore the Colorado River territories. Introduction by Wallace Stegner. Penguin Nature Library.

In Search of the Old Ones

David Roberts

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 22 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

For those who love the Southwest.... 5 out of 5 stars.
4 of 4 people found this review helpful.

If you have ever wondered what it would be like to explore the far reaches of Anasazi territory, this book takes you there! If you enjoy armchair travel there isn't a book that puts you there better than this one. David Roberts describes in detail his adventures through many Anasazi sites in the Southwest. Even those ruins that many people will never see because of their remote location.

Come Along And See With Your Mind's Eyes 4 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

For anyone with a passing interest in the Anasazi and the southwest, this is a great read. It's not a scientific archeology book but instead an easy to read guide to some of the Anasazi ruins of the southwest and the description of the author's hikes and explorations. He touches upon various theories of the fate of the Anasazi and current issues relating to the remaining ruins and National Parks. It has a few B&W photos (could definitely had more). It is a very easy read and to be honest I'm writing this review after having read it for the 3rd time. I have visited many of the sites that he writes about and for anyone who has been to any of the Anasazi sites and National Parks you will truly enjoy this book and have a better understanding of the history and of the ruins of this vanished (or moved) people.

Editorial Review:

An archaeological examination of the disappearance of the Anasazi considers the various theories about their departure from the Southwest and probes their history, culture, and architecture. 20,000 first printing.

Frederick & Nelson (Images of America)

Ann Wendell

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Editorial Review:

In 1890, D. E. Frederick arrived in Seattle and, joined soon after by Nels Nelson, started what would become one of the Northwest’s best-loved and well-regarded stores. For more than 100 years, Frederick & Nelson was much more than just a department store to the people of Seattle—it was an icon. F&N, as locals referred to it, established the city’s retail

core, led the war-bond drive, acted as a civic booster, and pioneered a high level of benefits for its workers. But it was the customer experience that made all the difference at F&N. Whether it was a fashion show in the Tea Room, a visit to Santa, or the taste of a Frango, the memories of Frederick & Nelson still resonate today throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Ordeal by Hunger

George R. Stewart

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 27 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Timeless Story 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

Written over 70 years ago, this account of the Donner Party is still captivating and contemporary. Stewart was a fastidious historiographer as well as a gifted storyteller. This fascinating drama unfolds crisply and frankly. Despite the gruesome details, or perhaps because of them, one becomes engrossed and enticed to keep turning the pages to learn what happened next.

The 1960 supplement was interesting but drier than the original 1936 text. The diary entries and letter from three of the survivors provide a unique view into the ordeal, and the reference summaries are useful aids for keeping the characters and itinerary straight.

Editorial Review:

The tragedy of the Donner party constitutes one of the most amazing stories of the American West. In 1846 eighty-seven people -- men, women, and children -- set out for California, persuaded to attempt a new overland route. After struggling across the desert, losing many oxen, and nearly dying of thirst, they reached the very summit of the Sierras, only to be trapped by blinding snow and bitter storms. Many perished; some survived by resorting to cannibalism; all were subjected to unbearable suffering. Incorporating the diaries of the survivors and other contemporary documents, George Stewart wrote the definitive history of that ill-fated band of pioneers; an astonishing account of what human beings may endure and achieve in the final press of circumstance.

Two in the Far North

Margaret E. Murie

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 9 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Carmen's Review 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

This is perhaps the most inspiring and entertaining book I have read in years. Mardie Murie is to me the quintissential woman, a true feminist, and first female to graduate from the University of Alaska, who follows her own star while completely respecting the stars of others. Her prose is "luscious," intelligent, rich in imagry, and filled with honesty and joy. She writes about her life growing up in Alaska at the turn of the twentieth century, and how she transcends cold and harsh conditions to follow the love of her life, Dr. Murie, as he studies the caribou herds in Alaska's wilderness. She even finds breathtaking romance on this amazing life adventure, spreading her love of life and nature to everyone she encounters. I can't recommend this book enough!

Editorial Review:

Considered by many to be the "Grande Dame of the American Conservation Movement, " Murie recounts how she grew to understand, respect and love the Alaskan frontier during the early 20th century. From plagues of mosquitoes to the movement of caribou, Murie explores the many aspects of nature in Alaska. 32 illustrations.

Shadows on the Koyukuk: An Alaskan Native's Life a

Sidney Huntington

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 18 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

excellent! 5 out of 5 stars.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

interesting and written in readable and enjoyable language! fingers can't keep up with eyes while turning the pages...

Reality Alaska 5 out of 5 stars.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

I am an Alaskan. I've read most things "Alaskan". This is the best!

not like his brother 1 out of 5 stars.
1 of 3 people found this review helpful.

It is sad that Sidney Huntingtons book had to be sooo different than his brother's. Jimmy Huntington's book was so much more down to earth.

Wow! 5 out of 5 stars.
0 of 1 people found this review helpful.

Mr. Huntington's book has painted a vivid portrait of life in this region of Alaska during the early 1900's. Being from the lower 48, I can only imagine the rigors their life required. I look forward to reading his brother's book.

Alaskan life story 4 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

An entertaining look at the life of a part Athabascan Indian trapper and woodsman, sharing the hard times and rewarding aspects of living in the remote backwoods of Alaska. An entertaining read.

Editorial Review:

In his dramatic autobiography, Alaskan elder Sidney Huntington, half-white, half-Athabascan, recounts his adventures, tragedies, and ultimate success.

San Francisco Secrets: Fanscinating Facts about the City by the Bay

John Snyder

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 6 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

A little history about my home town -- 20 years later 5 out of 5 stars.
12 of 13 people found this review helpful.

I'd signed up to take a History of San Francisco class as an elective during my first two years of college. It was cancelled because there were only three students signed up that were interested and a class had to have at least 11 students in order to happen -- unbelievable!! I was deeply disappointed. Well, I think this little book covers more than I would have learned in that class, if it had taken place, a little more than 20 years ago. Next time I go home to see friends & family, I'm going to conduct my own history walking tour with this book in my pack!

Editorial Review:

Did you know that the Golden Gate Bridge is designed to sway 27 feet in an earthquake? Or that famous Lombard Street, the Crookedest Street in the World actually isn t even the crookedest street in San Francisco? Written by the same author who brought us Play Ball and other best-selling trivia books, this quirky compendium of fun facts and stories about The City is cut in the shape of the Golden Gate Bridge. From BART s transbay tube that sits 130 feet below the surface of the San Francisco Bay to the top of the 853-foot-tall Transamerica Pyramid, all of San Francisco s best-kept mysteries are revealed and popular but inaccurate myths are exploded. A distinctive souvenir for visitors, a great impulse buy for locals, and a necessary dispute settler for San Francisco fanatics everywhere, this book takes a fresh approach to the City That Knows How, but prefers not to.

The Mountain Meadows Massacre

Juanita Brooks

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 23 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

The slaughter revealed 5 out of 5 stars.
5 of 6 people found this review helpful.

To be honest, I was hesitant to read "Mountain Meadows Massacre" by Juanita Brooks as she was a life-long mormon and, frankly, I was skeptical that she would treat the slaughter of 120 to 150 innocent souls with anything that even remotely resembled with candor; after all, the cult has an extremely well-established history of censoring and covering up even the most benign (but certainly well deserved) criticisms of their so-called religion. I was also rather puzzled by other authors on the subject who frequently referred to Brook's book and finally decided to find out why. I certainly was not disappointed.

While Brooks' work is now dated (it was originally published in 1950) and later researchers have uncovered additional horrors regarding the brazen butchering of so many people, she actually does an outstanding job of reporting on this horrible tragedy. Considering the amount of research she did, most likely from nearly all of the documentation that was available at the time, she does an extraordinary job in piecing together the details of this infamous blight on American history. Brooks assembled a large number of resources obtained from numerous interviews, newspaper accounts written at the time, court documents, affidavits, and even Congressional records to provide a chilling account of the massacre. At first, I felt that she treated some of those responsible (especially Brigham Young) with kid gloves but as the work progressed, she eventually placed most of the blame where it belonged - I'm rather stunned (as apparently was Brooks) that she was never excommunicated by the cult. Interestingly, she goes so far as to state that she even attempted to interview, as well as tried to schedule an appointment with, David O. McKay, the cult's "president", about the massacre only to be turned away - even though she offered to stay in Salt Lake City indefinitely in order to speak with him.

Interestingly, Brooks also makes no bones about the fact that the only fanatic punished for the atrocity, John D. Lee, was clearly used as a scapegoat for the barbaric behavior of so many other members of the cult that joined him in the carnage of September 11, 1857.

Of course, not all that Brooks wrote is gold. There were times when I felt as if she tried to minimize certain things - she never fully ascribes all of the responsibility that Brigham Young deserves (although there can be no question that he was an evil participant who sacrificed his "adopted son," John D. Lee), she tries to claim that the cult members involved may have been subject to "mob psychology" or "war hysteria" who lead otherwise "ordinary" lives, and that the cult now owns that property and had previously "given their approval" to build a "monument" on the site. Disturbingly, Brooks notes that attempts to turn over even a small portion of Mountain Meadows over to the U.S. Forest service or other Federal agencies have failed. Even now, 150 years later, the cult refuses to turn over the site, refuses to put a cross on the current monument (because the cult is not Christian), and continues to deny reality by accepting responsibility for the massacre. Even Gordon B. Hinckley, their current "president" (i.e., Satan incarnate on Earth) has stated "that which we have done here [at Mountain Meadows] must never be construed as an acknowledgment on the part of the church of any complicity in the occurrences of that fateful and tragic day." Some things never change. . .

It's only too bad that Brooks never gave up her cult - how anyone could continue to support such an evil institution, especially after uncovering so much iniquity, is almost unfathomable.