“As far as the American environment is concerned, few figures have wielded more influence than John Muir.  How appropriate, then, that one of America’s most noted environmental historians, Donald Worster, should now present John Muir in all his complexity and achievement in this authoritative and lively biography.”

—Kevin Starr, University of Southern California

Donald Worster has written the first comprehensive biography of Muir’s life in nearly sixty years, A PASSION FOR NATURE: The Life of John Muir. Based on Muir’s full private correspondence, Worster delves into the life of a struggling writer, a self-made man, a world traveler, a father and husband, a scientist, great thinker, a champion for natural wonders like Yosemite, and the founder of the Sierra club, in a textured and wholly complete look at his brilliant and often solitary life.

Worster is keenly suited for this biography. He is former president of the American Society for Environmental History and a member of the Western History Association. His expertise lies in the emerging field of environmental history—the changing perception of nature, the rise of conservation and environmentalism, but especially the ways that the natural world has impinged on human society and provided the context for human life over time.

Muir’s inspiration has left an indelible mark on the landscape of the United States and the minds of all who wish to see its beauty preserved in the face of constant jeopardy. In a time when the concept of “green” is on every mind it is a great opportunity to look at the beginning of this movement and the passionate man who started it all with the very basic love for the trail.