Rick Bass delves into the profound connections between the wild and human experience, crafting prose that is both lyrical and sharply observant. His work explores the intricate relationship between nature and identity, often set against the backdrop of remote, endangered landscapes. Bass's writing is a passionate defense of wilderness, marked by a deep appreciation for the natural world and a contemplative approach to our place within it.
This collection features a series of poignant stories crafted by a celebrated author, renowned for both critical acclaim and prestigious awards. The narratives promise to evoke a range of emotions, offering readers experiences that are both heartbreaking and uplifting, showcasing the author's unique storytelling ability.
This book offers a profound exploration that blends themes of resilience and optimism. Through vivid storytelling, the author invites readers on a captivating journey into a surreal landscape that reflects the complexities of our own world. The narrative is rich with insights, capturing both the challenges and beauty of the human experience, making it a thought-provoking read for those seeking both adventure and contemplation.
Exploring the tension between two beloved landscapes, this collection of essays reflects Rick Bass' experiences camping and canoeing in the wilderness. Written during his time as a geologist, the pieces capture his deep appreciation for the dark woods of the South while expressing a yearning for the expansive beauty of the West. Through vivid storytelling, Bass shares his journeys and the emotional connection he feels to both regions, highlighting the allure of nature and the complexity of belonging.
Set against the backdrop of 1950s country music, the narrative follows the Brown siblings, whose harmonious sound shapes the industry's future. As their fame rises, family tensions threaten to unravel their bond, showcasing the duality of celebrity life. The story intricately weaves their glorious past with a poignant present, offering a deep exploration of personal and musical legacy. Through rich character portrayals, it captures the essence of an era and the bittersweet nature of fame in American music history.
The memoir explores Rick Bass's profound connection to the West, detailing his journey from suburban Houston to the untouched beauty of the Yaak Valley in Montana. After years in various jobs, Bass discovers a landscape rich in biodiversity and philosophical conflicts over land use. His experiences in this rugged environment shape him into a passionate writer, hunter, and environmental activist. The narrative delves into the complexities of preserving wilderness amid community disputes, reflecting Bass's deep commitment to protecting the land he cherishes.
Recognized as a New York Times Book Review Editors' Choice and a finalist for the Story Prize, this book has garnered acclaim as a Best Book of the Year by the Rocky Mountain News. Its compelling narrative and rich storytelling have captivated readers, making it a standout choice in contemporary literature. The book's unique themes and character development contribute to its critical success and popularity among literary circles.
Set against the backdrop of early Texas, the narrative follows two young men who join the ill-fated Mier Expedition, initially seeking glory but quickly facing the harsh reality of survival. Captured during a raid and subjected to the brutal diezmo—where one in ten is randomly executed—they endure unimaginable hardships in a notorious Mexican prison. As they navigate the treacherous political landscape, their desperate quest for freedom culminates in a final, daring escape attempt, highlighting the absurdity and tragedy of their military adventure.
Exploring themes of isolation, history, and survival, this collection showcases Rick Bass's diverse storytelling. The title story features a haunting journey across a frozen lake, while "The Distance" offers a critical perspective on Thomas Jefferson through a Montana man's visit. Other narratives, such as "Eating" and "The Cave," delve into unique and gripping scenarios involving nature and human experience. With a blend of previously published and new tales, each story stands out, appealing to both newcomers and longtime fans of Bass's distinctive voice.
From National Book Critics Circle Award finalist Rick Bass, The True Story of the Best Dog I Ever Had is "[a] gorgeous, heart-tugging, man-and-dog memoir" ( Milwaukee Journal Sentinel ).Colter, a German shorthair pup, was the runt of the litter, and Rick Bass took him only because nobody else would. Soon, though, Colter surprised his new owner, first with his raging genius, then with his innocent ability to lead Bass to new territory altogether, a place where he felt instantly more alive and more connected to the world.This interspecies love story vividly captures the essence of canine companionship, and yet, as we've come to expect from Rick Bass, it does far more. Colter illuminates the heart of life by recreating the sheer, unmitigated pleasure of an afternoon in the Montana hills with a loyal pup bounding at your side."Colter is a dog of boundless spirit, all grace and wild genius. And his terrific master, Rick Bass, happens to be a national treasure. What a terrific team they make."— New York Times best-selling author Carl Hiaasen
The narrative explores the bond between Rick Bass and his dog Colter, a spirited companion in the wilds of the Yaak. Through their adventures in the mountain valleys, Bass reflects on the intuitive nature of his artistic journey, using Colter's instincts and experiences as a lens to understand creativity and connection to the natural world. The book intertwines themes of companionship, the wilderness, and the pursuit of artistic expression.