Our Reading List

Here are some of our favorite books about Alaska

A little background can do much to increase your understanding and appreciation of Alaska, the Great Land.

Guide Favorites

• The Nature of Southeast Alaska O’Claire, Armstrong, Carstensen Outstanding holistic look at the geology, habitats and animals of the Inside Passage and how they interact.
• The Natural History of Gustavus Greg Streveler A beautifully illustrated book, alive with detail and insights about the inter-relationships of this dynamic, unique area.
• The Book of the Tongass Carolyn Servid & David Snow Spirit Walker’s trips are conducted in the Tongass National Forest, the heart the world’s largest temperate rainforest and the largest national forest in the US. This book is a fine collection of writings that capture the region’s incredible beauty and presents the unfinished story of human interdependence and influence in one of the last, best places there is.
• Alaska’s Watchable Whales – Humpback and Killer Whales Mark Kelley & John Hyde Five Alaskans worked on this book — two photographers and three writers. They each worked decades onshore, near the whale waters of Alaska, and collectively spent thousands of days offshore with the giant mammals.
• Killer Whales of Southeast Alaska Matkin, Graeme, Saulitis, Barrett-Lennard, Matkin Killer whales (orcas) are fascinating creatures that fire the imagination of  people. This book, by leading researchers, gives us comprehensive look into the complex natural history and lives of these amazing creatures.
• Marine Mammals of Alaska Kate Wynne A sturdy, spiral-bound guide designed for use in the field, this book features large color photographs, profiles and helpful drawings.
• Guide to the Birds of Alaska Robert H. Armstrong. A comprehensive guide to Alaska’s birds, with wonderful photographs.
• Beachcombers Guide to Seashore Life in the Pacific Northwest J. Duane Sept A concise, beautifully illustrated guide to the most common inter-tidal animals and plants of the Pacific Northwest.
• Travels in Alaska John Muir A classic and awe-inspiring book about John Muir’s travels through Southeast Alaska.
• A Child’s Glacier Bay Kimberly & Hannah Corral A look at a family’s kayaking trip to Glacier Bay. This is a great introduction to young readers who want to learn about kayaking, camping, and the natural history of the area.
• Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast Pojar/ Mackinnon An easy-to-use guide featuring 794 species of plants commonly found along the Pacific coast.

Radio

Listen to podcasts of Encounters with Richard Nelson! Encounters is a weekly radio program by Alaska’s acclaimed cultural anthropologist and nature writer, Richard Nelson. These will surely get you in the mood for an adventure in the wilds of Alaska. Download a few episodes for the plane ride north!

More Information

Even with the information age upon us, you will never match the local knowledge that we’ve gathered by living here and being involved in arranging tours for independent travelers. Our staff is always happy to help with all aspects of your Alaska vacation. Please contact us today!