Once when asked for advice on how to become a writer Lopez found himself replying: "Read. Find out what you truly believe. Get away from the familiar." This collection of essays stems directly from that philosophy. Here is far-flung travel (the beauty of remote Hokkaido Island the over-explored Gal pagos enigmatic Bonaire); a naturalist's concerns (for endangered communities as well as their land) and pure adventure. Here too are seven exquisite memory pieces; beautiful meditative recollections that will stand as classic examples of the personal essay.