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rce59 's review for:
The Last Season
by Eric Blehm
While I'm not one for non-fiction, I found this book at work and needed a lunchtime read so The Last Season it was (which was definitely preferable to the other options, which mainly seemed to be geology based). But I'm so glad I picked this up- it was a really powerful and compelling story! I think partly because it was more narrative driven, rather than just facts and figures, it made for a gripping non-fiction read.
This story follows the life of the storied backcountry ranger Randy Morgenson throughout his life working in the Sierra up to his mysterious disappearance.
And while this book was about Randy's disappearance, Blehm really told his entire story- from his childhood in Yosemite, relationship with his parents, marriage, friends- but mostly tried to capture Randy's utmost respect and awe for the natural world which was incredibly inspiring. No matter his flaws and mistakes (which were quite a few), it seemed like Ranger Randy really embodied the spirit of stewardship and conservation, with appreciation for all the beauty and magic around him. Many of his own thoughts and writings are included in this book, which make for poetry at times.
Additionally, this book offers healthy and necessary criticism at the seasonal structure at the parks service, which was quite interesting and valid!
This story follows the life of the storied backcountry ranger Randy Morgenson throughout his life working in the Sierra up to his mysterious disappearance.
Spoiler
I wasn't sure the ending of this book, so I was very invested in the search and rescue efforts, all the theories and general intrigue. The reveal at the end, while not entirely surprising, was still rather sad- especially with all the hypotheses on the exact accident and how long Randy was lost. I thought Blehm did a great job with the tension of the SAR and building up to the ending.And while this book was about Randy's disappearance, Blehm really told his entire story- from his childhood in Yosemite, relationship with his parents, marriage, friends- but mostly tried to capture Randy's utmost respect and awe for the natural world which was incredibly inspiring. No matter his flaws and mistakes (which were quite a few), it seemed like Ranger Randy really embodied the spirit of stewardship and conservation, with appreciation for all the beauty and magic around him. Many of his own thoughts and writings are included in this book, which make for poetry at times.
Additionally, this book offers healthy and necessary criticism at the seasonal structure at the parks service, which was quite interesting and valid!