People Who Helped: John Muir

John Muir is famous for his love of nature, and especially the Sierras. If you have never read any of his writings, start with “The Wild Muir.” It’s a collection of his most hair-raising tales. 

Annie Dillard’s book, “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek,” also made a big impact on me, and for the same reason. Nature strips away our manufactured human existence and forces us to face Reality. No wonder we love her.