Wild America: A Personal Celebration of the National Parks

Landscape photographer Muench (Monument Valley) and travel writer Smith honor the centennial of America’s National Parks by sharing a personal selection of photos and experiences from 17 national parks and four protected areas. The included parks, organized alphabetically from Acadia in Maine to Zion in Utah, are mostly located in the West, their natural and monstrous beauty easily captured in Muench’s colorful landscape photos. The most notable photos feature mountains reflected in waters, including Mt. Hood, Mt. Rainier, Kearsarge Pinnacles, and El Capitan. The text notes when each park was established and includes heights of peaks and historical tidbits, but Smith’s descriptions are riddled with clichés (“died and gone to heaven,” “awe-inspiring sight”). Fortunately he includes quotes from more eloquent writers such as John Muir, Frank Lloyd Wright, Edward Abbey, and Rudyard Kipling. Smith also pays deserved homage to the Civilian Conservation Corps. More than Smith’s narration, Muench’s photos will seductively encourage tourists to “find your park.” Color photos.[em](Aug.) [/em]