In the Company of Wild Bears: A Celebration of Backcountry Grizzlies and Black Bears

WOW--what an interesting read! While most bear books focus on the negative aspects of these unpredictable creatures, Howard Smith goes above and beyond and takes the reader on unforgettable adventures through Bear Country. While he stresses that one should always use caution when around wild bears, he allows us to open our eyes and see these beautiful animals for what they really are in their natural habitat. Highly recommended for all nature lovers and bear enthusiasts! Well done, Howard!

This is a delightful book for those with an interest in bears and bear encounters. Smith relates stories with bear run-ins that the average person can relate to. You don't have to be some superhuman mountaineer to experience the same kind of encounters that Smith has. In fact this book is quite valuable because it confirms that a gentle approach to bear encounters is often the most rewarding. Fabulous job.

I received this well-written book as a Christmas gift and have enjoyed the variety of wildlife adventures shared by the author, Howard Smith, and the remarkable photos presented by Michael H. Francis. The author has done his homework through relating relevant accounts and observations provided by acknowledged bear experts. Moreover, he has been able to share a great deal of practice advice surrounding possible bear encounters through sidebars interwoven with his actual first-hand personal experiences from hiking and backpacking in various wilderness areas around the country. Smith's potential and real run-ins with bears are documented in 10 chapters where he records his thoughts and feelings, often through each of our five senses. Often, in a rather dramatic fashion, he is clearly able to capture his emotions and record his reflections prior to, during, and following probable meetings with bears. I found the book to be an introspective analysis and reflection of the wide array of reactions experienced by respectful and fearful wildlife enthusiasts.

In the Company of Wild Bears: A Celebration of Backcountry Grizzlies and Black Bears pairs photographer Michael H. Francis' black and white photos of bears in the field with a blend of writer Howard Smith's bear encounters paired with sidebars of bear facts and safety tips. What makes this different from the usual bear guide - many laden with color photos and made for coffee table display - already on the market is an attention to understanding the bear's habitat and psyche: chapters focus on first-person encounters which provide such insights and understanding, and are designed to reduce reader fears about bear activities and presence. Diane C. Donovan California Bookwatch