Passion Below Zero, Essays from Last Chance, Idaho

I grew so fond of David through this book of his hermitage, his content spirit, his understanding and one-ness with nature, that it hurt my heart to learn that he had died. How could he die at such a young age? What happened? Oh, sorrow. I also live in the backwoods of north Idaho, and deeply feel the loss of a kindred spirit.

David Hays, author of this book and editor of The Bugle, captures the spirit of wildness in his essays and captured my heart from the first page. With each essay I felt his passion for the land he loved and his homage to simplicity. Those who find respite in the wonderous western outdoors will feel their hearts swell as each essay is read. This author and his cat enjoyed a life that many of us can only dream of....but then, David Hays taught us that the dreams we have neatly boxed away are meant to be taken off the shelf and lived.

This is a real surprize for anyone unfamiliar with the author or with rich essays that were once part of a newpaere column. They are full of wisdom, humor, and mystery.

David, I am sorry I didn't tell you how much I liked "Passion below zero." I had been meaning to flirt with you more often. Know that I will flirt more often, and wisely, and I will think of you while I do so.

I bought this book a year after it's publication and throughly enjoyed it, especially since I, too, live in the backwoods of Idaho. I was deeply saddened today to learn of the death of the author, David Hays. He was one of those rare writers who can paint with words, take your imagination on a wild ride, and completely captivate you. David, wherever you are, you will be missed.