(3) YA Leaving behind a volatile life in West Virginia, Rilla arrives in Yosemite to stay with her park-ranger half-sister. Rilla's out of her element but is eventually drawn to a group of rock climbers, including competitive Petra, confident Adeena, and intense Walker. Rilla determines to prove herself capable--of climbing El Capitan and of controlling her own story--in this appealing coming-of-age drama. Reading list. Glos.

Reviewer: Rebecca Hachmyer

(2) K-3 Illustrated by Christy Hale. This peppy picture-book biography describes how a trip to Yosemite Valley and the gift of a camera set "antsy" young Ansel Adams toward becoming the "photographic visionary" who documented America's remarkable landscapes. Hale's collages in an earthy palette make excellent use of textures in depicting the natural world. An author's note further discusses Adams's life and legacy. Reading list, websites.

Reviewer: Katrina Hedeen | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2016

(3) 4-6 National Parks series. Each volume in this series provides an in-depth look at the cultural, geological, and biological history of a national park. In refreshingly thoughtful detail, this series avoids the usual series cookie-cutting by examining the topics relevant to each place, including wildlife, Native American populations, and conservation plans. Participatory sidebars and thought-provoking questions are included throughout. Park map appended. Reading list. Glos., ind. Review covers these National Parks titles: Yellowstone National Park, Everglades National Park, Glacier National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Grand Canyon National Park.

Reviewer: Kristy Pasquariello

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Jamie Hogan. One night in 1871, the beauty and sounds of Yosemite Falls lured a young John Muir to hike alongside them. A strong breeze suddenly allowed Muir to scoot behind the waterfall, but then the shifting falls almost swept him away. Factual sidebars and back matter about the naturalist's life extend the story; skillful pastel-pencil illustrations impart a sense of the vast setting.

Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey

(2) K-3 In 1868, when her father hires John Muir to help at their hotel, tomboy Floy gladly tags along when the naturalist explores Yosemite Valley. McCully deftly weaves Muir's ideas and discoveries into the story, while her watercolors capture the warmth and respect between man and child as well as the beauty of Yosemite. An author's note provides background for the fictionalized text. Bib.

Reviewer: Hilary Breed Van Dusen | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2005