Doc: Orra A. Phelps, M.D., Adirondack Naturalist and Mountaineer

This timeless memoir is inspirational to me, in that Dr. Orra Phelps came into this world with life's challenges always at her heels. She persevered through Johns Hopkins Medical School, into giving 50 years of service as a physician. At the same time she lived and loved nature, and all out of doors. She was the glue that salved her family, mentor to countless women, stubborn, opinionated, and a tireless correspondent. Through her letters I learned her life story, week by week, as if it were happening today. What a ride! What a read!

This book is the story of Orra Phelps, a truly inspiring woman who lived in the Adirondack Mountains and practiced medicine. She was born in the 19th century, making her one of the earlier female doctors, and she was an avid naturalist. Her life was far from easy, but she struggled through hard times to earn an education and make a career for herself. One of the most interesting things about this book is the fact that Dr. Phelps was also a hiker, participating in early mountain climbing clubs in upstate New York. The biographical story was very well-written, with a fluid narrative that made Orra come alive for me. She really was an incredible woman! This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the Adirondacks or upstate New York, as well as naturalists, those interested in wildlife, and, of course, anyone who likes stories about brave, intelligent, daring women!