It’s time again to review the park related books I’ve read this year. I’ve previously cataloged NPS books in 2019 , 2020 , 2021 , 2022 and 2023. I completed my Goodreads challenge of 100 books read for the year, and then some.
Have you ever read a book about, or set in a National Park? Would you recommend it? Here are the ones I read this year, in no particular order:
Dear Bob and Sue: Season 2 by Matt Smith , Karen Smith
The Smiths’ journey continues and is told through a series of e-mails to their friends Bob and Sue. I found this second installment to be laugh-out-loud funny. The humor doesn’t work for everyone, but as one reviewer put it, Matt and Karen are two regular people exploring the parks on a budget.
The Lady Doc by Caroline Lockhart
After visiting the Lockhart Ranch in Bighorn Canyon, I picked up this novel by Caroline Lockhart. The main character is not likeable at all! She is a con artist and a scoundrel. Rumor has it that Lockhart based her on a real life lady doc in Cody, Wyoming with whom she had an ongoing feud.
Fire Flight by John J. Nance
This book about airborne firefighters in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks got good reviews. But I just couldn’t get into it.
The Emerald Mile by Kevin Fedarko
Subtitled Losing MyThe Epic Story of the Fastest Ride in History Through the Heart of the Grand Canyonself and Finding My Way in America’s National Parks, this book is an interesting read. I found the writing suspenseful, but a tad repetitive.
Endangered Species by Nevada Barr
Anna Pigeon’s book number 5 takes place in Cumberland Island National Recreation Area in Georgia. Pigeon is a law enforcement NPS ranger and this time she is trying to solve the mystery of a plane crash amidst fire fighting duties. It was OK, though I found the B story of Anna’s boyfriend becoming infatuated with her sister unnecessary and upsetting.
Happy New Year!
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