Glenn Wolff – illustratör

A noted outdoors expert and an acclaimed illustrator have banded together to create a stunning picture of the wildlife in the eastern half of the United States. Complete with observation tips.

Brilliant, witty, perceptive essays about fly-fishing, the natural world, and life in general by the acknowledged master of fishing writers.“Once an angler has become serious about the sport (and ‘serious’ is the word that’s used), he’ll never again have enough tackle or enough time to use it. And his nonangling friends and family may never again entirely recognize him, either.” In other words, he (or she) will have entered Gierach territory. And fishermen who choose to brave the crowds at the big hold, commune with the buddies at the “family pool,” or even wade into questionable waters in the dark of night are sure to recognize themselves in Even Brook Trout Get the Blues.Whether debating bamboo versus graphite rods, describing the pleasure of fishing in pocket waters or during a spring snow in the mountains, or recounting a trip in pursuit of the “fascinatingly ugly” longnose gar, Gierach understands that fly-fishing is more than a sport. It’s a way of life in which patience is (mostly) rewarded, the rhythms of the natural world are appreciated, and the search for the perfect rod or ideal stream is never ending. It is not a life without risks, for as Gierach warns: “This perspective on things can change you irreparably. If it comes to you early enough in life, it can save you from ever becoming what they call ‘normal.’” Even Brook Trout Get the Blues will convince you that “normal” is greatly overrated.

Thoughtful, witty, and beautifully written, Many Rivers to Cross details M.R. Montgomery's journey into the physical and emotional territory of the American West as he explores the meaning and experience of wilderness. Montgomery's travels take him from the headwaters of the Columbia River to eastern Oregon and to Big Goose Creek, where General Custer's reinforcements camped and went fishing instead of joining the battle at Little Bighorn. He guides us through overlooked locations in Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, New Mexico, Arizona, and Oregon -- all of the last best places. And of course there is the ever-present quest for trout, from the Bonneville cutthroat to the rare Apache. There are indeed many rivers to cross, and M.R. Montgomery shows us that each is in just the right place.