My First Summer in the Sierra (Warbler Classics)

My First Summer in the Sierra is perhaps the most lyrical, joyous, and engaging of all John Muir’s many works. In the summer of 1869 Muir took work as a sheepherder in order to explore the headwaters of the Merced and Tuolomne Rivers. Keeping notes in the form of a diary, Muir describes his fellow companions—human and otherwise—with exquisite compassion, interest, awe, and even humor. This Warbler Classics includes all of the sketches by Muir that appeared in the first edition of the book and a detailed biographical note. John Muir (1838–1914) was a Scottish-born American naturalist, writer, and advocate of U.S. forest conservation. As early as 1876 Muir urged the federal government to adopt a forest conservation policy. In 1890, due in large part to Muir’s efforts, an act of Congress created Yosemite National Park. In 1892 Muir and a number of his supporters founded the Sierra Club, an organization devoted to protecting the environment. He served as its first president, a position he held until his death in 1914. Muir’s personal involvement was instrumental in the establishment of many of the country’s other national parks: Sequoia National Park, the Petrified Forest, Muir Woods National Monument, and Grand Canyon National Park. John Muir died in Los Angeles on December 24, 1914, of pneumonia at the age of seventy-six. His writings continue to serve as sources of inspiration for naturalists and conservationists the world over and remain important works in the body of literature on America’s natural history. “His countrymen owe him gratitude as the pioneer of our system of national parks…Muir’s writings and enthusiasm were the chief forces that inspired the movement. All the other torches were lighted from his.” —Sierra Club Bulletin “[Muir’s description of his first visit to the valley] ‘blazes from the page with the authentic force of a conversion experience.’” —Frederick Turner
ASIN: 1954525656
VSKU: DBV.1954525656.A
Condition: Acceptable
Author/Artist:Muir, John
Binding: Paperback
Note: Any images shown are stock photographs and product may differ from what is shown.
Condition Notes: This copy has clearly been enjoyed—expect noticeable shelf wear and some minor creases to the cover. Binding is strong, and all pages are legible. May contain previous library markings or stamps.