Arctic Refuge
Arctic Refuge is a book that arose from a political moment yet contains eloquent wisdom and timely information central to a sustainable vision for our world. The book began as an idea in January 2001, when Alaska residents Hank Lentfer and Carolyn Servid, responding to proposals to drill in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, sent a call to writers across the country. Just seven weeks later, the book was presented to Congress.
With testimonies by President Jimmy Carter, Wendell Berry, Barry Lopez, Bill McKibben, Terry Tempest Williams, Scott Russell Sanders, and Rick Bass, Arctic Refuge is an ideal introduction to the Refuge and issues surrounding our use of energy and public lands. The book includes the testimony of members of the Gwich’in Nation—whose lives depend on the caribou—as well as wildlife biologists, and other writers from Alaska and across the nation.
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Praise and Prizes
“Maybe we’re extreme to believe that some places are best left wild. . . . I invite you to read the book and find out for yourself whether, in this instance, ‘extreme’ isn’t such a bad thing to be.”
“An extraordinary collective effort that furthers the ability of literary activism to respond quickly and effectively to current issues. Here, too, is a reminder that the most powerful antidote to industry’s qualitative mind may be a collaboration of creative, soulful, and inspired writing.”
“Arctic Refuge may prove the most important book published all year.”
“This collection of essays warns of the dangers of drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, making arguments that both supporters and detractors of the proposal should consider.”
“This wonderful collection of testimonials truly brings home the natural beauty and cultural importance of the Arctic Refuge. This is not the predictable propaganda of special interest groups; it is the collective wisdom of thoughtful, articulate citizens. I recommend that you give it an earnest read.”
“This is one of the most important books of the year. Highly recommended.”
“In short (and sometimes quite moving) essays and poems, scientists, native Alaskans, and former U.S. President Jimmy Carter warn against drilling for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.”