Lisa Baile has recently released her book John Clarke: Explorer of the Coast Mountains (Harbour Publishing, 29.95). I missed the big book launch but bought a copy soon after. I thought I’d glance through it and then add it to my reading pile. Well, I cracked the cover and a couple of hours later the book was done. Its a wonderful read.

I knew John primarily as a keen observer and photographer of the little known aspects of our city. When he was working on a trip, he might casually mention something about arranging a few “food drops” but until I read the book I had no idea of the complexity of the prep work he put into those forays into the mountains.

Lisa has written an enjoyable book that everyone, climber and non-climber alike will enjoy. It is a delight, put this book under the tree for someone.