True Bear Stories

By Joaquin Miller

Book Overview

1900. Called the Poet of the Sierras and the Byron of the Rockies, Cincinnatus Hiner Miller alias Joaquin Miller was also termed a poseur and a farce during his careers as a 19th century lawyer, judge, pony express rider, newspaperman, teacher, cook, miner, conservationist and poet. Included in this book of stories is perhaps Miller's most interesting tale of A Bear on Fire, for I doubt you could put it down after reading the first couple sentences: It is now more than a quarter of a century since I saw the woods of Mount Shasta in flames, and beasts of all sorts, even serpents, crowded together; but I can never forget, never!

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0884962598
• ISBN13: 9780884962595
• Release Date: January 1987
• Publisher: Capra Press
• Length: 80 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 5.9" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Memories of pioneer life in northern California.

Califronia as it once was. A vast wilderness where the great grizzly bear still roamed free! The author's memories of northern California pioneer life in the 2nd half of the 19th century. Recounted years later for his daughter, Told with wry humor and wisdom. The stories ring true. The first tale, "Bear on Fire," sets the tone. The author is guiding some artists near Mount Shasta when a wildfire threatens the entire party. Seeking shelter he keenly observes the wildlife as it too flees. The second story & third stories hark back to the author's boyhood. The rest can be read in any order. Some of the stories range farther afield to Alaska, Louisiana and Mexico.The tales often speak of the potential diasterous consequences of bad decisions and ignorance. Exciting, yet not gory. Good initiation theme stories for young and old alike.