It is absolutely a must read for anyone who is a creature of the outdoors, especially the Sierras. The vivid imagery from the descriptions of the Sierras, especially in his childhood while rubbing elbows with Ansel Adams, makes anyone who loves the mountains immediately bolt out the door to go hiking. The book is also great at creating mystery behind Randy's disappearance (did he have an accident? did he take his own life? did he ditch the high country to start a new life?). It is especially great for people who frequent the Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks. I can picture exactly where his ranger station was (Bench Lake) and other sights he patroled. I read it in 3 days, due to its addictive nature!