One Man's Wilderness: An Alaskan Odyssey

To live in a pristine land unchanged by man ... to roam a wilderness through which few other humans have passed ... to choose an idyllic site, cut trees, and build a log cabin ... to be a self-sufficient craftsman, making what is needed from materials available ... to be not at odds with the world, but content with one's own thoughts and company... Thousands have had such dreams, but Richard Proenneke lived them. He found a place, built a cabin, and stayed to become part of the country. "One Man's Wilderness" is a simple account of the day-to-day explorations and activities he carried out alone, and the constant chain of nature's events that kept him company. The reader plans and works with Proenneke, sees the seasons change, studies the birds and animals that are neighbors, until it all becomes a personal adventure, too.

This book made a big splash when it debuted in 1973. Keith based the text on the journals and photography of Richard Proenneke, who, after racking up years of 50-hour work weeks, did what many of us only fantasize about: he chucked it all and went to live in the woods. Now in his 80s, Proenneke still abides in the log cabin he built with his own hands and has become an icon for naturalists. Though few will follow Proenneke's lead, his story can be quite inspiring. Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.