Guardians of the Valley

* “We see through this book the immense power of language…to change the minds of lawmakers and tourists alike.” —The New York Times Book Review * “A poignant portrait of an era when mere words could change the world.” —San Francisco Chronicle * The dramatic and uplifting story of legendary outdoorsman and conservationist John Muir’s journey to save Yosemite is “a rich,enjoyable excursion into a seminal period in environmental history” (The Wall Street Journal). In June of 1889 in San FranciscoJohn Muir—iconic environmentalistwriterand philosopher—meets face-to-face for the first time with his longtime editor Robert Underwood Johnsonan elegant and influential figure at The Century magazine. Before longthe pairopposites in many waysdecide to venture to Yosemite Valleythe magnificent site where twenty years earlierMuir experienced a personal and spiritual awakening that would set the course of the rest of his life. Upon their arrival the men are confronted with a shocking visionas predatory miningtourismand logging industries have plundered and defaced “the grandest of all the special temples of Nature.” While Muir is devastatedJohnsonan arbiter of the era’s pressing issues in the pages of the nation’s most prestigious magazinedecides that he and Muir must fight back. The pact they form marks a watershed momentleading to the creation of Yosemite National Parkand launching an environmental battle that captivates the nation and ushers in the beginning of the American environmental movement. “Comprehensively researched and compellingly readable” (Bookliststarred review)Guardians of the Valley is a moving story of friendshipthe written wordand the transformative power of nature. It is also a timely and powerful “origin story” as the towering environmental challenges we face today become increasingly urgent.