Why would a man of fifty forsake the security of the classroom to work with at-risk girls in the Maine wilderness? I asked that question often during the three years I used my teaching skills, my passion for the outdoors, and most importantly, reserves of patience and compassion I didn't believe I possessed, to help these profoundly troubled young women.

Those years form the genesis for my book, THE SUMMER GRIEVANCES.

Within its pages you will meet Appalachian Trail hiker Nadia, who tells the tragic story of her single mom's death by overdose; winter camper Isabella, from sunny California, who admits to peddling cocaine and hints at a possible miscarriage; and whitewater canoeist Joanna, an adoptee who wrestles with depression. Throughout this book the resilience of these sensitive young women shines through, as they grow adept at wood craft and find their true ease out in the wilderness.

Scenes from THE SUMMER GRIEVANCES:

• Prologue
• Chapter 1, Part 1
• Chapter 1, Part 2

Scenes from MEMOIRS OF A PROFESSIONAL HOUSEGUEST:

• Chapter 1, Part 1
• Chapter 1, Part 2