The Mountains of California

Viac o knihe

‘How glorious a greeting the sun gives the mountains! To behold this alone is worth the pains of any excursion a thousand times over.’ John Muir, renowned for his commitment to environmental protection and founder of The Sierra Club in 1892, offers a captivating exploration of the Sierra Nevada Range in his first book. As Muir authority Terry Gifford notes, this work became essential for the Sierra Club, now a significant national environmental organization. Muir describes his adventures through breathtaking mountains, glaciers, forests, and landscapes, affectionately referring to the Sierra as ‘The Range of Light.’ He vividly captures the gradual transformation of pines with elevation and the beauty of nature’s artistry: ‘a manuscript written by the hand of nature alone.’ His philosophy highlights nature’s soothing and awe-inspiring qualities, illustrated through heartwarming encounters with animals like the Douglas squirrel. Muir’s writing is infused with emotion, wit, and humor, making it a beautiful read that resonates deeply. The infectious enthusiasm within these pages inspires readers to embrace nature’s countless wonders: ‘The best words only hint at [California’s] charms. Come to the mountains and see.’