Description

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A remarkable compilation of practical information for living in one of the most impractical and inhospitable landscapes in the United States. More than forty pioneer types ranging from their mid-nineties to mid- twenties describe their reasons for choosing to live their lives in Alaska and offer useful instructions and advice that made that life more livable. Whether it be how to live among bears, build an outhouse, cross a river, or make birch syrup, each story gives readers a window to a life most will never know but many still dream about. Fifty photographs and 150 line drawings illustrate the real-life experiences of Alaska settlers such as 1930s New Deal colonists, de-mobilized military who stayed after World War II, dream-seekers from the 60s and 70s, and myriad others who staked their claim in Alaska.

About the Author

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TRICIA BROWN -- A former writer and editor for the "Fairbanks Daily News-Miner," the "Anchorage Daily News," and "Alaska" magazine, Tricia Brown has spent more than thirty years traveling nearly every inch of Alaska's road system and flying into the bush to write about the state and its people. She has published numerous books on Alaska for adults and for children, including the critically acclaimed "Children of the Midnight Sun," "Wild Alaska," and "Fairbanks: Alaska's Heart of Gold." She and her husband make their home in Oregon when not exploring the 49th state.NANCY GATES -- Originally from Tennessee, Nancy Gates came to Alaska as a young wife and mother of two small boys in 1978. The family, eventually expanding to include six children, and she has lived in various cities within Alaska over the past 33 years including Anchorage, Seward, Juneau, Ketchikan and Palmer. Nancy enjoys writing about what she enjoys living--family life among the extraordinary people in the Last Frontier. Her essays have appeared in various collections and magazines including "We Alaskans," "ALASKA Magazine" and the "Cup of Comfort" anthologies. One of her feature articles earned Honorable Mention in the 71st Annual "Writer's Digest "Writing Competition. Nancy also enjoys contributing, editing, writing and updating travel books such as "Alaska's Best Places," "Discovery Travel Adventures Alaskan Wilderness," "Insight Guides Alaska," "Berlitz Pocket Guide for Alaska," and the "Alaska Almanac""(R)."

Praise For…

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“As someone who loves esoteric knowledge and timeless homesteading and survival skills, this book fascinated me. In addition to being an interesting read, the book could also serve as a preparedness manual.” –Leon Patenburg, The Sportsman Pages blog