Utah Books

Here we have the personal memoir of Chief Warrant Officer Paul Holton, (a/k/a "Chief Wiggles") the "morale officer" in a Utah National Guard Unit. When not in uniform, Holton works as an account manager for Federal Express Corporation and travels as a missionary with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Holton's National Guard unit reported for mobilization in February 2003. Initially stationed at a holding camp in Kuwait, Holton provided intelligence support to a battalion-level commander, whose unit participated in the southern ground invasion of Iraq. After the U.S. started the war that March, Holton conducted the extended interrogation of some fourteen Iraqi Generals who had surrendered during the early days of the invasion. Once the so called "coalition forces" pursued the war into Baghdad, Holton's role morphed slightly from interrogating high ranking prisoners to gathering information from willing Iraqi citizens. Living in the "Green Zone," Holton was one of the first American military representatives whom an Iraqi citizen with information to share, would encounter.

Apparently working with little supervision, Holton's team in Baghdad interviewed Iraqi citizens and helped to funnel seed money to individuals deemed deserving of coalition favoritism (thereby stimulating the local economy.) As a part of these public relations efforts, Holton maintained a blog website that helped to insure that awareness, donated items, and funds, were raised back home for Iraqi children. This effort to get candy, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and toys delivered from U.S. donors into the hands of needy Iraqi children, was dubbed Operation "Give."

Most of Saving Babylon's 239 pages do not relate to Operation "Give," but detail Holton's retrospective of his own experience in Iraq. As an ex-intelligence analyst in the Army, this reviewer is easily convinced that Holton's subordinates benefited from his constant optimism, his unquestioning faith in the mission of the U.S. military in Iraq, and his enthusiasm for a plan that he asserted was "divinely developed, one that had something to do with blessing the Iraqi people." After all, a soldier's job is not to question his/her legal orders but to carry them out with enthusiastic professionalism.

Chief Holton might be excused for his enthusiastic support of a war that Americans were being told pre-empted an immediate WMD danger, "we're talking mushroom clouds." Holton explains "Saddam Hussein had killed thousands of his own people, and would not hesitate to give his weapons of mass destruction to a terrorist organization or to use them himself, which he had done in the past."

Most readers will appreciate Holton's enthusiasm and his willingness to forgo the comforts of home while fighting his nation's distant battles. And perhaps they can overlook his stubborn belief that the war in Iraq was a divinely inspired conflict between "good guys" and "bad guys." But the United States and the Iraqi people are paying dearly for the absurd notion that Almighty God is using the U.S. military to root out evil from the world. This reviewer, these days a teacher of history and philosophy, will appreciate Holton's memoir for a much different reason from most readers. Saving Babylon will provide undergraduate students with a contemporary comparison between a primary source's retrospective account, and subsequent scholarship, once the rest of the story becomes de-classified and then critiqued by future historians.

Reviewed by William Phenn for Reader Views (11/06)

Paul Holton, more commonly known as Chief Wiggles, has set up many humanitarian assistance and help organizations. He offers an insider view and humanistic portrayal of life in Iraq. He is adamant in his quest to inform the general public of the good in the people of Iraq. While serving the US Army as an Interrogator, he discovers the similarities among men and their families, rather than the brutal terrorists our media has reported them to be. Paul expands his mission to bring joy and goodwill to this impoverished country through Operation Give. Through his choice of giving he says he has received so much more in return. Through the sight of a small girl's tears, an idea to bring smiles to a people who have known few was born.

As an officer and Interrogator during the Iraqi War, this guardsman also wishes to educate the public of the American's humane treatment of their prisoners of war. He further expresses the goodness within the Iraqi military leaders he had the opportunity to extract information from. They parted as friends from the unlikely place of a prisoner of war camp with plans to reunite and maintain contact. After their release from camp, their word was honored with dinner at their homes with their families.

Mr. Holton has, through his kindness, befriended many individuals who will lead Iraq to a new order of government. The youth of Iraq have seen a different human soul than their previous leader has led them to believe. "Saving Babylon" describes how one soldier's goodwill may give many, hope for a brighter future. The poverty and brainwashing they have received during their lifetime is slowly replaced with hope by a stranger. Beginning with a small gift of a toy to a child, and ending with an international gift program, the author expresses how one man can make a monumental difference in world peace and understanding. He has been overjoyed to discover his program has expanded and continues its quest.

This book is easily read, with the general public as its target audience. Although this book was written during war time, the military terminology and acronyms are described so that civilians will easily understand the terms. It would be an excellent book for students to read concerning the Iraqi war.

"Saving Babylon" is a book to be read by any American citizen. It dispels the sensationalism the media seeks and reports upon. Instead, it tells a story of how our Higher Power works in the hearts of mankind throughout our world. We are more similar than different. Whether through our beliefs in a higher power, or hope for a kinder world, one man's mission has brought together families across the globe in a common bond of friendship. This fast moving 240-page novel was a gem to read and enjoy. I give it my most outstanding rating of A+, well done Mr. Holton.

Paul Holton's book SAVING BABYLON cuts through the typically negative media reporting about Operation Iraqi Freedom and puts a unique human spin on a one year deployment to Iraq. Rather than dwelling on operations and investigations, he speaks about the bond he developed not only with his fellow soldiers, but with his Iraqi contacts and the Iraqi people in general as well.

Better known to the Iraqi's as "Chief Wiggles," Holton started Operation Give, which is a program that takes toy donations from the states and distributes them to needy Iraqi children. His description of the first time he gave a toy to a poor Iraqi girl is one of the high emotional moments of the book.

Interspersed with his accounts of dealing with the Iraqi people, Holton places accounts of interrogating senior Iraqi military officers. Even in these accounts, Holton's detailed descriptions of his personal connection with the captives are both surprising and refreshing. He makes special effort to emphasize how so many of these former officers of Saddam really and truly want to work to make Iraq a better nation for its people.

A key element in Holton's ability to find the human element of the conflict is his strong faith. Never far from any of the stories relayed in the book are Holton's praying and talking with God to help him through the more difficult times of his deployment, including when he ran afoul of Army policy while following his strong moral compass.

SAVING BABYLON is a well written, easy reading book which deals with the best and worst parts of the human spirit, set against one of the most controversial conflicts of recent history. It is less about war and more about human emotion and human faith, and its message is heartwarming, especially when measured against the mostly negative media reports about the war in Iraq that we read/see/hear almost daily.

My husband and I read this book together and really enjoyed hearing what the news doesn't cover--all the good we are doing in Iraq. There's hope. What we're doing over there is not all in vain.

There are very few books that capture the whole essence of the war going on in Iraq--with all the tribal, religious, historical and cultural divisions that plague the country. "Saving Babylon" is a whole new and most refreshing look at that war and the people who serve there. It will not only open your eyes and your mind but it will also open your heart. The author found a purpose much higher than just conducting war; he tried to make a difference in the lives of those he met there. To that end he was successful!

Author Paul Holton (Better known by many around the world as "Chief Wiggles") writes a memoir of his tour of duty in Iraq, as an interrogator for the U.S. Army, which gives the reader a real inside look at what was and is going on there. He writes about the captured generals that he personally spent months interrogating. More importantly, is the way he does it. As a former soldier, I was pleased to read how Chief Warrant Officer Holton, made it a point to uphold the principles of "The Geneva Conventions of War." He used his personality--not torture or cruel punishments (as we have read so much about in the media) to extract information from POWs. He approached his job as a professional with a humanitarian heart and not just with the POWs but with the children of the country.

The book is a wonderful read for men, women and even for mature children. It is on the MWSA "Top Ten Recommended Reading List" for 2005.

"Chief Wiggles" created a non-profit foundation to bring toys and supplies to those in need inside Iraq. This operation almost cost him his career but in the end, he was even recognized by the President of the United States in a speech at a prayer breakfast. The author writes a great story about his personal experiences; but his example as a humanitarian soldier will be his legacy. I am forever grateful for men like Paul Holton who served and gave so much from their heart. His foundation is called "Operation Give" and can be found on the web at: [...]

The Military Writer's Society of America recognizes Paul Holton's efforts with their "Humanitarian Award for 2005".

This book has some great hikes. You may use it to find the hikes, but do NOT rely on it's described hiking distances or directions. On one hike they describe a 1.5 mile section of trail that in reality was about 4 miles. Use your topo maps & GPS before the hikes to be sure of the distances. On another hike, their description of a return route was very vague & didn't mention several landmarks which would've made the route easier to find. Some of the slot hikes don't mention certain obstacles, though these could've happened after the book came out. This book may be too out of date to be useful...

I've looked though this book and was really impressed by the detailed information and variety of hikes. I just ordered it from Amazon and am very anxious to use it this summer with my family and rugged little Scout troop who are gaining a great appreciation for this beautiful land.

Keep a copy in your car-- I do. Trail guides are easy to understand with all of the information needed to find trailheads with confidence. I have owned this book for years and have used it a number of times to plan trips to a specific destination or to break up long drives with a quick hike when I am on my way to/from some other activity. Get the book, fill the car with gas, and see how many of the hikes you can complete this year!

I bought "100 Hikes in Utah" for my daughter and her fiance because I thought it would be perfect for them. They have discovered the beauty of nature in Utah, especially in the southern part with the cliffs and rock formations.

This is a very well-written guide to the 100 places Steve and Rhett have explored. They know what they're doing, and their experience and love of the outdoors is evident throughout the book.

I like how each chapter is set up with information right at the beginning of the article on every site, telling the reader about the distance round trip, hiking time, difficulty range, best season to go, etc. The articles give great detail about the journey, with tips such as camp sites, water sources, and scenery throughout. There are many wonderful pictures throughout the book. I only wish they had been in color since it's clear the views are spectacular. (Check out the hair-raising photo on page 98!)

I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in hiking the beautiful landscape of Utah. Be sure to take this book along with you.

This otherwise excellent guide is seriously compromised by a major omission. For hiking in the west it is really important to know the maximum and minimum elevations of a trail. This book lists the elevation gain, but amazingly and foolishly does not tell you at what altitude the hike begins and ends. This is such a serious (and needless) blunder that I would not recommend the book.

Ever feel that you let the enthusiasm of a review persuade you to purchase something for the wrong reason? Well I did. Like many of you who will visit this amazing site, I was looking for a book that would help me explore it. This book WILL NOT help you plan your trip nor will you want to pack it with you when you go. What it will do is help you write a term paper on Chaco Canyon. Things I want to know when I read about an area are when to go, how long each area should take and strategies to get the best views and pictures. I figured this information would be intermixed with detailed descriptions on the sites history which would elevate it above a typical travel guide. Wrong. It is as far removed from a travel guide as a book can get. Is this the books fault? No probably not. I should have taken the "Encylopedic Guide" reference more literal. However, all those glowing reviews made me feel I was missing something. I was not. I found out just as much about the sites when I visited the on-site museum and read the much shorter official site book (Chaco - A Cultural Legacy). I also found Sandra Hickman's - Hiking the Southwests Canyon Country, to be a better travel companion then this book. Want to know where the petroglyphs are or how to get to New Alto? Not happening with this book. Want a multi page explanation of masonary styles or find out what Uto-Aztecan is? Then this is your book.

The Puebloan culture at Chaco Canyon reached its height between AD 1050 and 1120. In addition to constructing greathouses, kivas, tools and pottery, the people also had to solve the problems of living in a harsh environment. For example, they developed intricate systems of controlling water through canals, dams, gates, and gridded gardens.

This book is an excellent reference that lists subjects alphabetically, with brief decriptions (usually not more than one half to one page in length) for each entry. However, I will echo another reviewer's comment that this is not a useful book to take with you when walking among the ruins of Chaco Canyon National Park. I also did not find it as useful when approaching it as an 'introduction' to the culture. It is useful however if you're reading another book about Chaco Canyon or you're already familar with the culture and you want to look up what a Herradura is or to identify what the Rabbit Ruin is and where it's located. There are black-and-white photos and pen-and-ink drawings displayed throughout the book, and there are also maps of topographic and hydrologic features of the area.

My only disappointment is that it was touted on the back cover as 'The Beginner's Salvation' but I never got the beginner's 'big picture' when reading the book's introduction. I would've preferred an overview that addressed the subject in this sequence: reasons the Puebloans began moving and settling into the area, what did early aspects of the culture look like, what main conflicts/issues did they have to resolve along the way and how, what did later aspects of the culture look like, and what were some possible reasons why they left. Instead, I had to wade through a lot to piece this together and there are still a few pieces missing. An overview followed by the introductory chapters would've been more effective. Overall though, as a reference, this book has some great information.

Also, a travel note if you're plannning to visit Chaco Canyon... To get to the park, you have to take a 20-mile long desolate dirt road. I would recommend not taking a regular car or RV out there. When I was there in September, we were just leaving the park as it started to rain. I soon felt fortunate that we had rented an SUV because the road very quickly turned into a thick muck.

This incredibly detailed and cross-referenced "handbook" is also a fine "literary work"that will delight anyone from novice to active archaeologist. Vivian's lifelong professional involvement with Chaco and Hilpert's facile expertise for public information clarity have made a perfect merger of technical information and spellbinding narrative. Add in wonderful illustrations (many of Vivian's photos and drawings) and time lines and charts, and you have everything one needs to understand, and better yet, REMEMBER AND TRACE, up-to-date info on Chaco. This really goes into the heart of the entire realm of SW PreHistory even beyond Chaco culture. As an active "amateur", I use the gloriously wide margins to record notes from all the good references the book provides on Chaco. Others of less intense interest in Chaco have found gift copies especially rewarding: my son's wife has seen only Mesa Verde, yet she found that this book explained general Anasazi life "at last" in a clear and direct manner; my sister fell in love with the Hopi culture on a visit to the 3 Mesas, and she now feels informed "about the whole idea of the Prehistory of the area" (Hopi and Zuni have their own topics in the book); and my 94 yr old Aunt was here in the 50's and loves SW PreHistory -- but now is quite blind -- so her daughter reads from this handbook to UPDATE her on the whole info range and latest Theory base of the Anasazi/Chaco world. She says the narrative is SO EASY TO UNDERSTAND that she can "build the pictures in her mind". We have been given a fine gift from Vivian and Hilpert. AND CHECK OUT VIVIAN'S LATEST BOOK FOR YOUNG PEOPLE. It includes -- for young people and adults-- a charming personal history on Gwinn Vivian.

Someone's pointed out that this isn't a guide to help you explore Chaco. That's true. This is a book you should probably read before you go there, or even contemplate going there.

Visiting Chaco and other ancient ruin sites in the Southwest is an adventure. If you'd like to see these ruins innocent of any understanding of what you are looking at, of the people who built them, of what's known, believed, speculated about concerning their mysteries, don't buy this book. You'll still enjoy seeing it, but you'll do so with approximately the same level of comprehension as the thousands of others who visit there every year.

This book won't give you a thorough knowledge of Chaco or the Chacoan Culture. No book will. No 100 books will. The fact is we only know a lot about those people when compared to knowing absolutely nothing about them.

But if you want to know what's known and believed about pre-columbians in New Mexico, this is a good place to begin.

Chaco Canyon, site of one of the most remarkable civilizations in North America prior to the European invasion, has long been the subject of speculation, fantasy and intense scientific exploration and study.

The mystery of its origins may never be unraveled, which is perhaps the enduring lure of the Chaco Phenomenon. Visit the ruins of an English castle, or a coastal monastery destroyed by Vikings, and the origins and fate are readily available. At Chaco, the Great Houses built from about 850 AD to 11 AD were the highest stone structures built in the Americas until at least the 18th century.

For Navajos and New Agers, like the English of 850 AD when called on to explain Roman ruins, the structures were built by gods. The reality is more prosaic, Chaco was built by the ancestors of today's pueblo Indians. The mystery is "Why ?"

The Chaco Handbook doesn't attempt to solve the mystery. Instead, it provides a concise handbook of Chacoan studies, illustrated with more than 100 maps, drawings and photos, plus definitions of 250 of the common terms relating to more than a century of exploration and investigations. On the basis of my personal visits beginning in the 1960s, it is the best single volume introduction available to explain Chaco.

It's up-to-date, covering some of the latest original and provocative work by longtime professionals such as Thomas Windes and Steve Lekson. It also mildly debunks the sensationalism of Christy Turner who caused a brief flurry of revulsion with his suggestion it was an ancient pueblo cannibalism center.

It's a handy reference for anyone who has visited, an invaluable resource for anyone who plans to visit and a perfect introduction even for those unable to visit. Instead of the usual detailed archaeological minutiae, "The Chaco Handbook" is ideal for average readers. Written by two consummate experts with decades of professional experience, it is an excellent introduction to visiting and thinking about Chaco.

After reading this book, dozens of other books are available which range from professional reports and analysis of excavated sites to esoteric speculation that varies from Aztec warlords to visitors from outer space. Once again, based on personal experience, this book is the next best thing to living there for several months.

Care for some speculation ? Chaco was abandoned after 1100 AD when the Southwest was hit by a decades-long drought; I've studied quality reports of Chaco groundwater which is laced with high levels of natural pollution that can cause mental retardation. The decline roughly coincides with the introduction of the Kachina religion, still a vital part of Zuni and Hopi societies -- two good reasons to start over someplace else.

When we consider why people do things -- such as build Chaco in the first place, or abandon it after 250 years -- we're looking at some fundamental ideas about the origins and fate of societies. Why migrate to Chaco and build Great Houses ? Look at it this way -- Why should Europeans migrate to America and build a Great Society ? Chaco is a metaphor for our world.

This is the fun of studying and speculating about Chaco, a rich and materialistic society that offered far more than a marginal or subsistence life. The Chaco Phenomenon was a vast construction project lasting hundreds of years, with a profound impact on the regional ecology. It leaves the enduring question, "What inspired these Pueblo Ancestors to such greatness ?"

Granted, this book doesn't delve into such idle and sometimes amusing speculation. But, it offers a concise and comprehensive background for those who ponder such issues, and I recommend it as the best introduction available. It's part of the charm of studying Chaco, the temptation (by amateurs at least) to combine facts with "What if ?" speculation.

"The Chaco Handbook" is the best introduction you will get.

This book is more about the man who wrote it then the victim & the killer.

I cound not find ages, dates of birth, where born etc.

This book tells of the events from the time a wife is found dead in her backyard, the husband carrying on as a greatly distressed widower. We follow the events as they unfolded in the eyes of the police and the ultimate prosecutor, the author of this fascinating book. One gets the reactions of the author at each stage of the investigation and at the legal procedures which follow, including a blow-by-blow account of the trial. Any lawyer or judge will be fascinated by the account, as will any lay person who wants to know what a trial is really like so far as the proxecutor is concerned. I found this a really good book, and as I usually do when I read a true crime book I read the opinion from the Supreme Court: State v. Mead, 27 P.3rd 1115 (Utah 2001); and it was like a condensation of the account of the trial we read about in great detail in the book. And one always finds of interest the differences and the samenesses in procedure between what we know in our own state and the way it is done in Utah, and considering which way is better. It balances out, even if one thinks the way it is done in the state with which we are familiar is sometimes preferable.

I bought this book after reading the other reviews. Although the case was about the death of a seemingly lovely person, the author seems to want to talk about himself as well as his colleagues, family, career (hx of law school, GI bill, etc). Such extra verbage was not necessary and did not add to the story - it mainly seemed to add to the interest of the author. Also, the editor was obviously a close friend and chose to let these errors go by without clearly using their power to keep the author in his place - the background. I was bored by the writing, excessive storytelling and lack of coherence. This author should stay in fiction and stay away from true victims and their families. That way, he can improve his craft and protect the innocent from his ramblings.

A vivid look into what it takes to build a case against the cold blooded but seemingly perfect husband. Loved the humanity when dealing with the other players in the drama. Great writing style and insight to how everything in the judicial process falls together.

I have been waiting 11 years to hear what really happened the night og August 15, 1984. I have heard many rumors from co-workers but of course had my own thoughts. I knew Pam well and flew with her often. This book gives her life dignity and respect. I always had that gut feeling she was WAY too good for David. She was one of the kindest and sweetest people I ever was lucky enough to meet. She also told me how much her family from Colorado meant to her. I was unable to attend the funeral and have always felt like I needed to know more. Of course I had me own suspicions from DAY ONE!! I couldn't put the book down...I was very impressed with the writer/prosecutor. Thank you Mr. Lemcke for not only writing a great book but helping a dear friend rest in peace.

My son is an avid reader, a fifth grader who LOVES to read. He picked this book to do a genre book report on mysteries. He found this book pretty boring and confusing. He has not read any other of the books in the series, so that could be part of the issue. However, he has never reported not liking a book before.

I am 5, and my dad read's the books to me. We've read 9 of 12 of the series, and plan to finish them all.

It's not scary. Normally, one chapter a night is perfect. But, warning, near the end of the book, you won't be able to stop until you finish.

This one is not one of the best - too predictable.
Also, father stupidly puts his kids in danger on Zion hike.
Would recommend starting the series of books with "Cliff Hanger", it's our favorite.

Don't have to read books in order if your library doesn't have them all - we read in no particular order and still enjoyed them.

Ghost Horses, by Gloria Skurzynski, is a great series about a wonderfully adventurous family. I like this book because it never stops being exciting. In every one of these books, the most exciting part is in about 3/4 of the book. These books are thrilling, mysterious, and funny too.
#6, Ghost Horses, was funny because Ethan, the Landon family's new foster kid, and Jack Landon, were always fighting and never getting along. While Ashley Landon, Jack/s younger sister, and Summer, Ethan's younger sister, were getting along fine. Did I mention that in each book, the Landon family get a different foster kid.
#6, Ghost Horses, is about the Landon family, and their foster kids taking a trip to Zion National Park. This park is home to wild horses who run through the canyons, and all around the park. Ethan and Summer showed Jack and Ashley the ghost dance. Summer and Ethan are indians from a tribe called the Shoshone. Anyway, the Ghost Dance is supposed to make the White people go away, so Jack and Ashley were making fun of thereselves without knowing it. Later in the book, Steven, Jacks father, takes Jack and Ethan on a hard core hike through the Narrows, but something's wrong. Jack hears things in the canyon walls while they're hiking.
I like this series. I've read #1 Wolf Stalker, #2 Cliff Hanger, #4 Rage of fire, and now #6 Ghost Horses. This isn't a series that you must have to read in order, as you can see, I'm not either. But sometimes, the Landons will mention something that happend in one of the past books. These books range from about 150-190 pages long. So, if you'd like to get into the adventure that I just talked about, and a lot more, read Ghost Horses, and all the other " Mysteries in our National Parks".

This was a really good book. I would really recommend it because I thought it was really interesting. It is about the Landon family and two foster children named Ethan and Summer. They go to Zion National Park and are trying to trap wild horses. Ethan and Jack didn't like each other much at first, but they became friends after a lot of stuff happened.

The Landons are at a fair and they are being foster parents for two kids. The names of the two kids are Eathan and Summer. They are descendents of an Indian tribe called the Shoshone. Jack and Eathan don't get along but Summer and Ashely do. The whole family has to go to a national park called Zion National Park. They have to go there because Olivia has to help the park people with the problems they are having with the horses. The MUSTANGS!
While in the park for the weeklong stay they meet some friends Art and Gus. Art and Gus invite Olivia to come on a night mustang catch by the water whole. Jack, Ashely, Summer, Eathan, and Steven all come too. They set up a trap around the water whole to catch a few mustangs to run tests on them.
After a while a group of horses come and don't know what all the stuff is around the whole. When every thing is going right Eathan runs out and screams at the horses to tell them to run. All the horses are scattering and one turns and starts to run at them in the bush. Olivia says it won't run into them but it does and it rears up and when coming down it almost crushes Ashelys skull, but Jack runs and saves her! Art and Gus stay there the rest of the night and catch 2 horses.
The next day Eathan, Steven and Jack pack up to go on a hike up in the Narrows. While they are walking in a creek with waist deep water the water turns brown and sticks start hitting them! Something goes wrong!
If you want to find out what happens read the book. I thought this book was very exiting and it is a kind of wilderness adventure. I thought it was a good book. I thought it was a good book because it had a lot of cliffhangers at the end of each chapter. I would recommend this book to people that like the outdoors and adventures.
Austin Muller

I loved this book! My husband and I read it together and really enjoyed it. We like the writers style and way of keeping you wanting to find out what's happening next. We are now reading the sequel, "Return to Mormonville". "Mormonville" is now making the rounds in our family.

i am an avid reader of some of the best lds writers. i hesitated with this one as i didnt recognize his name. however, i am glad i did. his storyline is easy to follow and humerous. he captures what many non lds people would view the church if they didnt learn about them as he shows his character did. his descriptive insights and marvelous depth makes me want to come back and read more of his books.pamela

I read this book in a day. I had to get to the end, even though I knew EXACTLY what to expect. I thought this Call person tried way to hard. I thought the main character was split-personality. One minute he's rough and tumble and the next he's wearing a CTR ring. I realize we were meant to see how he was melting, but did anyone else think the scene with the missionaries (when he was getting his discussions) completely unrealistic? Who acts like a total idiot? He was acting like a clown, and if he was as cool as they tried to make him be, he would NOT act like that. I don't know, this whole book was just weird. Ok for lazy spring day reading, but that Call person should stick to writing articles.

As a non-Mormon who lives and works in Salt Lake City, this book does have a few humorous spots. But, on the whole, it is dull and predictable.

I had no idea whether or not I would enjoy this book. I picked it up on a whim at a bookstore. I began reading it and I began to empathize COMPLETELY with the "hero" of the story. Here was my life story in a novel form... with a few details changed.

I began as a dissident of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints but the more I read of it and learned of it I began to believe in it... without being brainwashed as many critics of the church have tried to claim.

This book is reccomended more for Mormons and not for non-LDS readers but I think any convert to the church will find themselves in this.

Luke Manning's "mighty change of heart" is heart wrenching. And despite what other reviews might lead one to believe, you don't have to know about sports to enjoy the book. This is one book I will read again and again and again.

I agree with the other reviewers...This book covers The Pueblo Indians from the caveman era to The Pueblo Revolt...A lot of interesting archaeological sketches and maps too...

The author is an academic anthropologist. The book is a survey of a lot of information, but some emphases seem unusual. For example, there is quite a bit of speculation about what languages were spoken by prehistoric "pueblo" people but almost no information about the pueblo revolt of 1680. Details of that revolt are easily found in other books, but it was surprising to find so little about such an important event here. In contrast, there is a chapter on the Spanish conquest of Mexico. I found that material interesting, but it wasn't clear how that level of detail related to the author's main story. The author says almost nothing about the exploitation of the Pueblo people by the Church, government, and landowners before the revolt. He states that the Spanish were benevolent compared to the English in New England, but without any justification for this statement. There is an extensive list of references for readers who want to learn more. The book could also use some editing; some text is repeated in a later chapter.

"Rio Del Norte" is a very good summary and (partial) reinterpretation of the archeology and culture history of the US Southwest into the early historical period. "Southwest" is in quotation marks because during the early historical period it was Mexico's "Northwest;" but it has always belonged to the indigenous peoples who still live there. Apart from this misnomer, the perspective is not notably Anglocentric, and in fact, the work is exceptional in giving due consideration to the concerns of the Indians of the region. This is most noticeable in Riley's discussion of EL Turco ("The Turk"), a Plains Indian captive at Pecos Pueblo who led Coronado onto the Great Plains in the early 1540s. Typically portrayed as a lying traitor by the Spaniards, Riley shows him---convincingly, in my view---as an early exemplar of Pan-Indian consciousness who developed an (abortive) strategy to thwart the Spaniards' pursuit of wealth and power. In this way Riley restores historical and rational agency to this enigmatic figure, and also other indigenous historical actors from the region.

This book rates 4 stars because the level of specialized detail, particularly on environment and economy, will deter some readers. But I have happily quarried it for lecture material, and both students and laypersons who appreciate clearly-written scholarly prose will benefit from reading it.

"Rio Del Norte" is a very good summary and (partial) reinterpretation of the archeology and culture history of the US Southwest into the early historical period. "Southwest" is in quotation marks because during the early historical period it was Mexico's "Northwest;" but it has always belonged to the indigenous peoples who still live there. Apart from this misnomer, the perspective is not notably Anglocentric, and in fact, the work is exceptional in giving due consideration to the concerns of the Indians of the region. This is most noticeable in Riley's discussion of El Turco ("The Turk"), a Plains Indian captive at Pecos Pueblo who led Coronado onto the Great Plains in the early 1540s. Typically portrayed as a lying traitor by the Spaniards, Riley shows him---convincingly, in my view---to be an early exemplar of Pan-Indian consciousness who developed an (abortive) strategy to thwart the Spaniards' pursuit of wealth and power. In this way Riley restores historical and rational agency to this enigmatic figure, and also other indigenous historical actors from the region.

This book rates 4 stars because the level of specialized detail, particularly on environment and economy, will deter some readers. But I have happily quarried it for lecture material, and both students and laypersons who appreciate clearly-written scholarship will benefit from reading it.

I bought this book while vacationing in New Mexico and found it an excellent companion to my visits to archaeological sites such as Quarai, Abo, and Gran Quivara. These former Pueblo Indian farming communities are located in the middle of nowhere and the fact they were able to exist -- and apparently thrive -- in a hostile, desert environment adds to their appeal and mystery. Riley has turned out a competent, readable survey of the Indians of the Rio Grande in pre- and early-historical times. In the first half of the book he gives a thorough account of all aspects of Pueblo Indian culture: history, language, agriculture, religion, technology, trade, etc. The second half is devoted to their contacts with Coronado and the other early Spanish explorers and settlers. He presents in brief form a lot of information, but most of what he says is jargon-free and comprehensible to non-archaeologists and non-specialists. I liked the book and it will stay on my shelves as a ready reference to the Pueblo Indians.

This book is a fantastic resource. Colorful pictures and accurate maps are included. "Inside" information is given to allow a new park visitor to plan a trip without missing out on the little extras that make the trip so worthwhile. Event times and costs are included along with other travel indformation.

This book is very usefull for a foreigner travelling throughout USA especially as it's almost impossible to find such a book (in France) that focuses on one US state.
The book contains detailed informations concerning Utah's National Parks. Hikers should appreciate it.
I recommand it with pleasure.

We have just returned from hiking & camping in Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches And Canyonlands (Island in the Sky area), and found this book to be one of the best of any guide book we have used (over 30 years of hiking). The hike descriptions were so interesting I read them again after doing the hike! The description of how one gets to the trailhead in in a separate section titled "driving to the trailheads", which may cause problems for individuals who don't read scan through the chapters first before deciding on a hike. We found the descriptions of the trees and plantlife on each trail very useful and I would not hesitate to buy another of Ron Atkinson's guide books, they are obviously very well researched.

Just back from a 9 day backpacking trip in Utah, using both this book and Adkison's book on Escalante. It left me with poor trail descriptions, (scarily) poor or wholly incorrect maps, and an "interesting" (read: madman-style insane) style of giving directions to trailheads. I am by no means new to the outdoors, nor to getting to remote trailheads, routefinding, etc; I can say with a degree of confidence that this is the poorest guidebook I have ever purchased. The second star is given for his "reccomended" hikes, which were, on the whole, generally right on.

This was a decent guide book, but it really tried to cover too many parks at once. It seems like it covers more family type day hikes and not a lot of backcountry and backpacking trails. We used it to plan hikes in Zion National park and Canyonlands - Needles District. The book recommended a hike in Canyonlands National park that did turn out to be awesome (Chesler Park/Elephant Canyon to Druid Arch).

We also used it to plan a hike to the Subway in Zion. In this case, I wish it had given more detail, as we ended up a little over our heads on this hike. The water was a LOT higher than we expected based on the pics we had seen and information we had. Apparently, the water levels tend to be higher in April due to snow runoff. If the book had given more information, we probably would have never attempted the hike at that time of year to begin with. Oh well, I guess you live and learn, right?

In conclusion, I would recommend this to anyone who is planning to visit one or more of the parks for a short period and wants to hit the hightlights. If you want a more in depth hiking trip to one of the parks, I would recommend getting a more detailed guide book specific to that park.

For a first novel, I found Brigham's Day an "okay" read. Gates establishes an eerie mood in the prologue which is heightened by his powerful descriptions of Kanab, Utah. The immensity and starkness of the Utah scenery and the has-been quality of Kanab go a long way in evoking an off-balance, dwarfed-by-events atmosphere. When we arrive in Kanab with attorney Brig Bybee, we cannot help but feel with him how far he has fallen and how far he may have to go to regain his footing. Gates also conjures accurately the mystery and suspicion that always seem to surround Mormons and their practices. His inclusion of an historical murder with bearing on Brig's present case is a stroke of inspiration: this is the way things have always been in this territory and one man may not make much headway in solving this crime.

However, I was put off by Brig's relationship with the daughter of the man his client is accused of murdering. A down-and-out lawyer might be so unethical, but Gates does not have Brig so much as consider the issue. There's an unnecessary sex scene that does nothing to further the plot and seems to have been included largely for the Penthouse Forum set (like scars and cowboy hats? Have I got a story for you. . .!)

Worst of all, Gates doesn't play fair with his readers. We go along with Brig's co-counsel, Ron Watters, as he investigates his wild theory of the crime. We're with him as he interviews a potential witness and searches his client's camper. Watters finds something earthshatteringly important, but we don't find out what it is until several chapters later. Watters then rushes to meet with another major player and sees him with someone significant to the plot--but unidentified to us. This may be necessary to keep Brig and readers in suspense until a better time for an unveiling, but Gates writes it poorly. Watters pushes open a door, gasps, and there's a sudden change of scene, a device reminiscent of TV scripts.

Gates does so well at describing his setting, creating an atmosphere, and conceiving an unusual plot that I wanted this book to be better. My objections largely involve elements of mystery writing skill. I'm hoping that Gates's next book will live up to the promise of Brigham's Day.

This is the story of an attorney responsible for defending a man accused of murder. The once well known and well respected Brigham Bybee is at the center of the novel. Unfortunately, he is no longer well respected and is on the verge of being disbarred. In order to save his license, he is appointed to represent a man accused of killing a person who holds a very important Latter Day Saint secret.

This secret goes back over 200 years and at first blush, although the theory of defense is somewhat farfetched, as the novel progresses, the author does a good job of tying the events of the past to the events of the present. Although the story is not factually accurate, it would not be difficult to imagine an organization killing in the attempt to preserve the "good name" of the organization.

I thought this was a very good debut novel and the creativity was very impressive. Although this was a very well written legal thriller, I was somewhat disappointed in what appeared to be the authors lack of recognition of the obligation of an attorney to his/her client. Bigbee's relationship with Zolene created a major conflict of interest and had the effect of undermining his duty,responsibility and obligation to his client.The dynamics of that relationship was somewhat at odds with the representation of his client. However, notwithstanding that minor nuance, I thought the book was quite good and look forward to the second Bigbee novel.

Attorney Brigham Bybee once walked with the state's elite. In those days, he would never set foot in a place like Kanab, Utah. However, that was then and this is now and Brigham is divorced and an alcoholic with no future. Thus, Brigham agrees to assist the defense team as they defend drifter Owen Parks accused of killing a former local bishop Douglas Farnsworth.

Though no one expects much of him in what is apparently an airtight case (the accused took a picture of the scene) Brigham begins to investigate the murder. To his shock, he begins to unravel a totally different scenario than that painted by the police and prosecutor. Instead, Brigham begins to believe that his client is a victim of a conspiracy linked to a mass murder over a century ago that if ever revealed would shake the Mormon Church.

BRIGHAM'S DAY is an exciting legal thriller that provides the audience insight into Mormon history and beliefs. The story line is fast-paced and Brigham is a cynical antihero. Several subplots such as an unnecessary romantic interlude detour the main tale, but John Gates' novel is worth reading because of its fine focus on the Mormon lifestyle inside a well-designed legal thriller.

Harriet Klausner

After reading Brigham's Day, I am certain of two things. John Gates is a fine writer and a great story teller. The characters are well drawn, and Gates uses them to great effect in drawing the reader into the shadowed secrets of the Morman experience. I hope to meet Brigham Bybee again,and soon.

BRIGHAM'S DAY is the debut novel by John Gates. Brigham Bybee, an attorney on the verge of being stricken from the bar, is assigned to the case of a poor young man who is accused of murder, in Kanab, Utah. The book is very dark, telling tales of not-so-savory events in the days of Brigham Young and Joseph Smith, the founders of The Church of the Latter Day Saints, and the modern Church, all taking place in the ethereal beauty of southern Utah. This is not a true historical novel, but rather a modern day murder mystery with historical undertones, and well worth reading

I bought this book and went to the area covered.
And I advise anyone planning a trip there to change their plans.

It is hot, too hot.
There is no water or shade.
The flying insects, there are millions, bite every inch of unprotected skin.
Every plant has needles that leave you pierced.
The crawling creatures will find you where you sleep and bite you.
And for what - a bunch of red rocks and dirt.


Safer to stay in the car and look at it from the road.
Or better yet stay home.

The Escalante is a vast area of great charms. This is a nice hiking guide to some of the more accessible areas of the Escalante. These hikes are not for the faint of heart - they require good backcountry skills. What makes the book truly great is Rudi's natural history background. Extensive drawings and text add richness to our visits to the red rock country of the Escalante. 43 hikes listed, drawings, maps and many b&w photographs.

Hiking the Escalante Wilderness can get very confusing even if you are proficient at the use of USGS topo maps. Hence, whenever I have gone I have taken this book. He devoted a lot of time to not only giving you a much-needed guidebook, but also to giving you a lot of history, biology, botany, and even deals with hundreds of side canyons/routes... But some of the information might be outdated (e.g. the pools in Death Hollow) and his descriptions that seem clear can be vague (how to safely scale the last 50 yards to Phipps arch); there are other, wrong, places that look exactly as he describes the correct place (e.g, finding the mail route west and out of Death Hollow - there is a bend lower in the creek that looks the same, but is not the route). He also relies heavily upon his odometer readings to find trailheads and all car odometers don't jive with his readings.

I not only enjoyed reading this book, but found it extremely useful in planning my first trip to the Grand Staircase region. It gave me an accurate idea what to expect from each trail.

Having hiked the Escalante canyons a lot before reading this book, I found upon reading it that the book seemed to match my memory of places fairly exactly. That doesn't mean a lot, so I took it with me on a few of the more backcountry trips and found it so extremely accurate and useful that I am now using it as the primary information source for some trips to areas that are new to me in the Escalante region. I'd definitely recommend this book.