Chasing Clayoquot: A Wilderness Almanac

David Allinson is the president of the Rocky Point Bird Observatory in Victoria, B.C.

After reading the first few chapters of Pitt-Brooke’s charming debut
book, one is struck by his evocative writing style. Written as a
journal, Chasing Clayoquot captures the harsh beauty and wonder of the
west coast of Vancouver Island as we follow the author on his travels
and self-discovery. Each chapter covers a different month and the
changing seasons over the course of a year. The reader is transported to
the quiet and powerful wilderness as the author explores this remote
region of Vancouver Island via kayak, plane, boat, and on foot.

The book captures the nature, history, and First Nation’s life of the
region in a manner that is both interesting and inspiring. Brooke
conveys with reverence the spirit of all of the past, present, and
future generations that have lived in the Clayoquot area, as well as an
appreciation for the natural landscape itself. Also impressive is his
knowledge of and research on a variety of topics, including history,
meteorology, geology, natural history, and Native culture.

This reviewer eagerly await Brooke’s next book.