Steve Mather of the National Parks, by Robert Shankland. 326 pages, 24 illustrations, with an introduction by Gilbert Grosvenor. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1951. Price, $4.00.

There are really several books within these covers. First, there is the authorized biography of a great public benefactor who has been insufficiently appreciated outside a relatively narrow circle. Stephen Mather’s vision and energy were largely responsible, as must now be realized more widely, for making many of our most important mountain ranges so accessible. Second, there is an authoritative history, from the earliest days to the present, of our National Park Service. The author has had access to a wealth of documentary material, much of which seems never before to have been revealed to the public. Third, there is a fascinating account of high-level politics in Washington, and of the struggles waged by conservationists— particularly Mather himself—against the pressures exerted by representatives of various special interests. The author, whose style is as clear and bracing as good Western air, tells numbers of interesting anecdotes about men of eminence in the Washington scene and about picturesque figures of the West. One exceptionally dramatic story is of an Arizona politician’s protracted efforts to keep the Grand Canyon out of the public domain. Much of Mather’s success was due to his gift at enlisting in support of the National Parks such public-spirited citizens as Mr. Rockefeller. Fourth, there is an illuminating account of the borax industry, which gave to Mather the personal fortune that enabled him to dedicate himself, in the best years of his life, to the preservation for our citizens of many of our country’s natural beauties.

Like all true Californians, Mather grew up to be a lover of rugged skylines. For most of his adult years, he was an active member of the Sierra Club. In 1904 he visited Switzerland, and in 1905 he climbed Rainier. From that time on, most of his summer vacations were spent in the Sierras or the Rockies. Though his record of ascents may not have been spectacular, it was long and continuous, and included many peaks of 10,000 ft. or more. In any case, his record of public service is such that climbers in this country owe him an eternal debt of gratitude.

Henry E. Mills