My new book is here, The Colors of My Sunset: My adventures and reflections in the National Parks and beautiful wild! What is it about? Why should you read it? Here I want to address some common questions I get. This book is the most personal and meaningful thing I’ve written, and I am excited to share it with you! 

What is this book about?

This book chronicles a month-long adventure of camping and hiking in the U.S. National Parks in the summer of 2018, primarily in the Pacific Northwest. There are tales of adventure, humorous accounts, and captivating descriptions. Also nearly every chapter engages in a spiritual or philosophical discussion relating to the influence of one’s life upon another, the meaning of suffering, and the power of faith. 

Why did you write this book?

I wasn’t going to write this book, because this particular summer was, in some ways, very difficult and shed light on some faults of my own character, at the time, and my struggle with illness. I didn’t want to write about it. I was done. But I have a goal of visiting every U.S. National Park and writing about the adventures in a series of books. Two of my summer adventures are chronicled in my books Canyonlands: My adventures in the National Park and beautiful wild and Still, Calm, and Quiet: More adventures in the National Parks and beautiful wild. With time and maturity, I realized this was perhaps my most meaningful summer- a time of great personal growth, and it was a part of my story that needed to be shared. I am so pleased to share it now, and hope everyone can learn and grow from my own experiences and insights. 

Should I read your other two National Park adventure books first? 

I would love it if you read Canyonlands and Still, Calm, and Quiet, but it’s not necessary. Each book gets progressively deep and philosophical. If you are ready for the most meaty book, this is the one.

Who published this book?

I am my own independent publisher and own all rights to my work. I design and format my publications. By meeting publishing standards, I am able to work with Amazon for printing and distribution. 

How long did it take to write this book?

I began writing this book on Jan 7. 2022. It has taken me about three years. A great deal of time has elapsed since my last installment due in part to being wrapped up in other writing projects as they concern Dollywood and Theodore Roosevelt. In recollecting my advetures, I relied heavily on journal entries, photographs, itineraries, and maps.

What makes this book unique?

Each chapter is sort of its own episode and can stand alone, but, when read together, they paint a greater picture and produce more meaning. It is not a travel guide but rather describes my travels in the physical and spiritual sense. The reader will enter my mind and thoughts as I’m out exploring largely alone. The book also features 200 black and white photographs and 45 vintage illustrations. Among the many stories in the book, you’ll read about my struggle for survival in Death Valley, the time I jumped into Crater Lake, my first grizzly bear encounter, and my first ever days in Montana. 

Are the photos and illustrations your own?

198 of the 200 photos I took myself. A photo of the a grizzly bear I did not take. I also did not take the cover photo. The illustrations are not my own, but are from vintage publications in the public domain that are no longer in print. They are recycled here for your enjoyment . 

Where was the picture on the cover taken?

That is Emerald Bay on Lake Tahoe in California. 

Where can I buy this book?

Currently this book is only available on Amazon and is eligible for regular and Prime 1-2 day shipping. In a few months it should be available from walmart.com and other online retailers. Buying direct from Amazon is the greatest way to support me as the author. Buy here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZVRCQRY

Will you be releasing an ebook?

I am a traditionalist. I like my books in a good ol’ hard copy format, and so that is how I am choosing to share my book. I spend a great deal of time on the physical design of my books I have no plans to create an ebook at this time. 

Is this book the same collection of stories found on your blog?

Some of the stories are the same, but a number of them are not and are only found in the context of this book. As one of my blog readers, you will find this new and fresh.

What are the parks featured in this book?

Mojave National Preserve 

Death Valley National Park

Emerald Bay State Park

Manzanar National Historic Site

Bodie State Historic Site

Redwood National and State Parks

Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve

Crater Lake National Park

Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Olympic National Park

Mount Rainier National Park

North Cascades National Park 

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area

Glacier National Park 

Lone Pine State Park 

Is this book content appropriate for all readers?

Yes

What other books have you written?

Check out my full bibliography on my website here.

Buy your copy today!

Thank you!