John Muir 
My First Summer in the Sierra 

In the summer of 1869, Scottish immigrant John Muir worked as a shepherd in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains. The diary he kept during this time was later adapted into My First Summer in the Sierra, which was published in 1911. His record describes the majestic vistas, flora and fauna, and other natural wonders of the area. Having inspired millions to visit the area, today Muir is recognized as one of the most important and influential naturalists and nature writers in America, along with Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau.

About the author

John Muir (1838 – 1914), known as both John of the Mountains and The Father of the National Parks, was a Scottish-American naturalist, author, environmental philosopher, and early advocate for the preservation of wilderness in the United States. His letters, essays, and books, which tell of his adventures in nature, have been read by millions. His activism, including founding The Sierra Club, has helped to preserve natural areas such as the Yosemite Valley and Sequoia National Park.