This lavishly illustrated book is more than just a personal and family memoir. It gives a picture of all aspects of life in a beautiful and demanding part of our region -- from the joys of summer swimming holes, the friendships and memories of school years, the demands of making a living in lumber, fishing and ranching, and the family tragedies and joys.

       One aspect that should interest a broad swath of local history buffs is best described by several chapter titles: "The Forgotten Flood, 1953", "The 100 Year Flood, 1955", and "The 1000 Year Flood, 1964". The author lived through all of these events, as well as a tsunami and slides, and vividly recounts the rising water and fear, the losses, the dislocations, and the courage and determination among devastated communities.  

       This includes the tale of a neighbor's bull, later named "Captain Courageous", who was swept down river and out to sea, where on a raft of debris he was carried 20 miles up to Crescent City. He was bought home from there, where he served as a symbol of local courage and the will to survive.

       This book which presents detailed but approachable history plus touching personal insights is well worth reading by anyone interested in our community's past.