Review of The Wisdom of John Muir compiled by Anne Rowthorn

Review of "The Wisdom of John Muir: 100 Selections from the Letters, Journals and Essays of the Great Naturalist"
compiled by Anne Rowthorn.

This is the Product Description from Amazon.com:

The Wisdom of John Muir marries the best aspects of a Muir anthology with the best aspects of a Muir biography. The fact that it is neither, and yet it is both, distinguishes this book from the many extant books on John Muir. Building on her lifelong passion for the work and philosophy of John Muir, author Anne Rowthorn has created this entirely new treatment for showcasing the great naturalist's philosophy and writings. By pairing carefully selected material from various stages of Muir's life, Rowthorn's book provides a view into the experiences, places, and people that inspired and informed Muir's words and beliefs. The reader feels able to join in with Muir's own discoveries and transformations over the arc of his life. Rowthorn is careful not to overstep her role: she stands back and lets Muir's words speak for themselves.

This is my review for LibraryThing; I had received a reviewer copy under their Early Reviewer program:

This book is a good example where the product description is very descriptive. This book will be loved by John Muir followers and largely ignored by everyone else. Anne Rowthorn has done a fine job of compiling the book exactly as described. I will reiterate that this book is as much a reference as a book to read cover-to-cover. I enjoyed her commentary on John Muir as much as the Muir quotes. The writing of the late nineteenth is on exhibit in his writings. If you love that style and the wilderness of the west, you will thoroughly enjoy reading from this book. For me, personally, a little bit goes a long, long ways. Also, the font is extremely small and the 'literary' choice of ink color and paper did not provide enough contrast for me. It made it had to stay with it, for me. This book is a fine contribution, as noted in the description. I will hold on to it as a reference, because I admire the work of Muir. I know I will check back in, from time to time. to read another passage.






Happy Reading!  ;-)