Rising From the Plains

Annals of the Former World, Book 3

By: John McPhee

Narrated by: Nelson Runger

Annals of the Former World is the result of a 20-year journey. During that time, John McPhee, author of 25 books and noted writer for The New Yorker, crisscrossed the United States, roughly following the 40th parallel. The geological insights and wonderful descriptions McPhee packed into his accounts of these trips earned his remarkable book a Pulitzer Prize.

The third part of that book, Rising From the Plains, takes McPhee to the high country of Utah along the Continental Divide. His guide is David Love, "the grand old man of Rocky Mountain geology". Helping McPhee see the physical changes that have shaped this region over millions of years, Love also traces his own family's history in this oil-rich, windswept land. As McPhee climbs into the granite landscape of the Rockies, Rising From the Plains creates a fascinating picture of the interdependence of geology, commerce, and culture. Nelson Runger's clear narration further enhances McPhee's engaging text.

Listen to more books in the Annals of the Former World collection.©1986 John McPhee (P)2000 Recorded Books, LLC

Critic reviews

"A delight." (The New York Times Book Review
"Narrator Nelson Runger...keeps the listener interested in even the most technical explanations, using pauses and emphasis to maintain clarity." (AudioFile)

interesting

My husband was born in Wyoming so the personal interest story was very interesting to me. The geological part was a bit dry but great information. I wish it had more of the personal interest story part.

Rising From the Plains

The story combined with the science brings the interaction between man and earth brightly alive.

A wonderful adventure in geology and history

A very special combination of history, place, geology, family and a lifetime’s work. Makes me want to go back and rediscover Wyoming.

Five Stars in All Categories

Would you listen to Rising From the Plains again? Why?

I would again, even though I've just finished listening to it twice through. I feel that this is McPhee's best work, synthesizing Wyoming's fascinating geologic complexities within the framework of a pioneering generational American family story. This is the author at his very best, and Nelson Runger's narration is also top-notch.

Who was your favorite character and why?

The central figure of course: the late David Love, eminent geologist.

Have you listened to any of Nelson Runger’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Everything he narrates seems to be a flawless work of vocal art.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Not extreme, but yes- McPhee's wily sense of humor is always present. Thus laughter.

Any additional comments?

If you're heading for the Grand Tetons or the Wind River Range, or just to Jackson Hole, give this a listen before and during your visit.

great. as with most of his books.

I enjoyed this book immediately and right through to the end. I will listen to this one again and recommend it to others.