Naturalist Weidensaul has written a wonderful natural and ecological history of the Appalachian Mountain range, from its southern origins in Alabama to its terminus off Newfoundland at Belle Isle. Weidensaul's theme is change as he traces the mountains' geological origins from the Ice Ages through the incredible diversity and richness of pre-Columbian and Colonial days on up to the modern era. . . . The strength of this book lies in the wonders Weidensaul finds in this familiar wildernessin the lives of darters and mussels and the mystery of the forest bison. For all libraries in or near the region and an excellent choice for comprehensive natural history collections elsewhere. Beth Clewis, Library Journal A fine, literate ramble along the ridges and valleys of the great spine of the Appalachians. Weidensaul has produced a thoughtful accounting of ancient mountains, of vast, continental clashes, tiny, exquisite wildflowers, obscure salamanders, woodrats, moose, elk, bears and coyotes. A good read, even for those already familiar with the rich flora and fauna of the regionhis sense of wildness pervades. John H. Mitchell, author , Ceremonial Time Scott Weidensaul's mastery of language and nature, his ability to notice, catch and distill fragments of beauty missed by others, makes this the sort of book yearned for by all who cherish wild things and wild places. As that beauty fades from our beloved Appalachians, Mountains of the Heart can provide us with inspiration and information to act. Ted Williams, Audubon Magazine