My First Summer in the Sierra

Description

John Muir, nature writer, explorer and conservationist wrote My First Summer in the Sierra in the form of a diary in 1869 and published it 1911. The book enjoys immense popularity ever since, having attracted numerous visitors and trekkers to the magical world of Sierra Nevada in California.

Muir had the chance to explore the Sierra not long after the Civil War. Being captivated by the dramatic beauty of the place, he decided to come back and he did, indeed, in 1869 when he accompanied a group of shepherds as they drove of flock of 2,500 sheep to the Merced River through Yosemite Country. The book not only features vivid and beautiful descriptions of the places Muir sees such as El Capitan and Toulumne Meadows and of the animals he meets, some of them as special as the Sierra lizard, bears and mountain lions, but also voices Muir’s concerns about preserving nature as it is and protecting it. Muir gives voice to the feelings and emotions he experienced during the journey, the fear that comprised him when faced with dangers and his admiration towards nature, its beauty and its power.

The book makes an equally entertaining read for those who have already been to the Sierra and for those who are planning to see the place. The book is not only a detailed account of adventures, places, plants and animals as seen by a self-educated natural scientist, but also an expression of the philosophical views of a deeply religious person who respects nature and is willing to take an active role in the preservation of nature. Fortunately, Muir’s efforts have been and will be appreciated not only by his readers – one of the most picturesque hiking trails in Sierra Nevada, the 211-mile long John Muir Trail has been named after him to honor his legacy.
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