Reading material for rainy days

It’s chilly, cloudy and rainy again. For days like these when it’s hard to spend enjoying the outdoors, there are plenty of outdoor books to read. I know some people will say that you can hike or camp no matter the weather, which is true; however, I’ve found that if you want kids to enjoy the experience, nice days are important. It’s raining right now, and the forecast gives me hope that we may see the sun today, but tomorrow, our high temperature is only going to be 47 degrees with rain. That’s not the best day to take your kids up Harney; it won’t be a good experience for anyone.

In the meantime, here are some of my favorite outdoor books.

Merle’s Door: Lessons from a Freethinking Dog by Ted Kerasote

Trust me, it’s better than Marley and Me. Kerasote adopts Merle after finding him wandering alone, and thus begins a long relationship. Kerasote is an outdoor writer who lives in Kelly, Wyoming, which is within the boundaries of Grand Teton National Park. This book will satisfy outdoor enthusiasts and dog lovers alike.

Woodswoman, Woodswoman II (also known as Return to Black Bear Lake), and Woodswoman III by Anne Labastille

Ecologist Labastille has written extensively about her life in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. The narrative begins with her building her cabin on the shores of a remote lake and continues to recount her experiences through the years. Not only are these books a great read for women (and men) but also for teenage girls interested in ecology and environmentalism. Labastille is an inspirational figure, not only for her wilderness capabilities but also for her activism.

Going Alone: Women’s Adventures in the Wild edited by Susan Fox Rogers

This collection of essays by women recounting their solo experiences in the outdoors is heartening for women who want to spend more time in the wilderness. From accounts of women going for their first hike alone to backpacking solo in designated wilderness, the book tells of large and small triumphs.

Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey

What outdoor reading list would be complete without this classic? Desert Solitaire is what inspired me to visit Moab, Utah; the pull of the desert is strong. Remember that Abbey had strong opinions, and he didn’t expec or care for everyone to agree with him. This book encourages people to get out of their cars, walk, pay attention and appreciate the minutiae of nature.