The Sylvan Path: A Journey Through America's Forests

I didn't think too much of Ferguson's "Walking Down the Wild," partly because I felt like Ferguson was struggling to find something to say about his journey through the Yellowstone wilderness. But here, he has something to say, he says it, and he says it well. Ferguson makes an impassioned argument about the wonder that the American forest can provide; usually, he takes a back seat to others and lets us see the forest through their eyes. Ferguson has chosen his subjects well; simple mountaineers to whom the forest is a way of life, moonshiners, American Indians, and trappers are just some of the people who allow us to see the woods as something more than a pretty view from the car. The writing is strong, and the subject matter is entertaining. You don't have to be a tree hugger to enjoy this book. You just have to be open to developing a respect for the world in which we live.

Ferguson sets out on a tour to experience life in some of Americas most significant forests and woods. In each he camps out, hikes, takes notes, but most importantly, interviews people who have lived their entire lifetimes in the wilderness; farmers, sportsmen, forest rangers and moonshiners. from Maine to Appalacia to Minnesota's border lakes and Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Ferguson is a master storyteller, painting word pictures which allow the reader to "see" life in the woods. His writing is crisp and clear and moves at a brisk pace. As I listened to this book I was reminded of Charles Karault's "On The Road" series, filled with colorful tales, generous sprinkles of humor and a sense of discovery on each page. If you love the outdoors, you will love this book. If you have never been in the woods, this book will make you wonder why.