Under the Devil's Thumb

Found this to be an ejoyable read. It fits on the shelf next to edward abbey and bill bryson quite nicely. I recently read an essay by David Gessner in Orion - Learning to Surf - find the article online and read that if you want a quick taste of the superb writing gessner is capable of. I found this book to be close to that level of greatness; no "desert solitaire" but thoroughly enjoyable. I don't understand the previous reviewers abhorrence of beer - those contradictions contribute to a rich life. But fair enough, if you are the type who will occasionally negate your lightweight hiking gear by packing in a bottle of wine to share around the campfire, you will love this book. Be Well, Art

From start to finish, I was deeply moved by Gessner's insightful and creative prose. This is perhaps the greatest book I've ever read. Thank you, Mr. Gessner, for making an invaluable contribution to contemporary American literature.

After enjoyng Gessner's first book about Cape Cod (A Wild, Rank Place), gave this a try and found the same honest voice and distinctive viewpoint. The kind of book you want to read all at once. He shares the most personal experiences in funny, vivid and sincere writing. Really good, makes you want to invite him over for a beer, or a bike ride, and hear more.

I just finished reading an advanced copy of David Gessner's second book, and I have one word: Fantastic! Mountain biking, skiing, hiking -- it's an adventure book for the thinking person. Gessner writes beautifully about the Rockies, Utah, and Anasazi ruins. He integrates everything he sees and learns into his own (and the reader's) understanding of his life and the people in it. Under the Devil's Thumb is rich in characters and setting. Like a great novel, it keeps you turning the pages. A fine, fine piece of literature!

Gessner's personal essays on man and nature, family, and mortality are deeply inspiring and amazingly well-written. He has a wonderful and unabashed way of articulating his thoughts. I believe he will soon be considered one of the important literary writers of our time. This book will make you feel like getting off your tush and climbing a mountain.