Complete with sketches, Muir’s diary lets us follow him working as a shepherd in the mountains of central California and exploring the area in 1869. One of the American originators of the idea of conserving nature, John Muir is practically synonymous with America’s National Parks, and here we can see him starting to formalize his way of thinking as he interacts with the plants and animals, as well as other people, in the area.

Born in Scotland, Muir moved to America aged 11 in 1849 and became a champion of the American West, while simultaneously never forgetting his Scottish roots.

Want to read this month’s Literary Circle book choice and enjoy using an e-reader? You can read My First Summer in the Sierra by John Muir for free when you join our eBook Club! See here for more information about the eBook Club and how to sign up and access hundreds of gratis books and audiobooks!

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