This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. Desert Solitaire

   A Season in the Wilderness

   

   Desert Solitaire is a collection of vignettes about life in the wilderness that reflects on the fierce beauty of the desert, the cruel indifference of nature, and the reckless destruction of the American West. The book, based on the author's experiences as a park ranger in Utah, explores the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of the desert environment, critiquing the commercialization and urbanization of the wild, and underscoring the importance of preserving natural landscapes.

   The 2105th Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon

2. 2. The Monkey Wrench Gang

   

   "The Monkey Wrench Gang" is a novel about four environmental activists who form a group to sabotage projects that they believe harm the natural environment in the American Southwest. The group's activities range from vandalism to arson, as they target billboards, bridges, and bulldozers, among other things. The novel explores themes of civil disobedience, the ethics of violence, and the tension between individual freedom and societal structures, all set against the backdrop of the expansive western landscape.

   The 6212th Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon

3. 3. The Fool’s Progress

   An Honest Novel

   

   A poignant and introspective journey unfolds as a disillusioned man embarks on a cross-country road trip, retracing the path of his life from the West Coast back to his childhood home in the Appalachian Mountains. Along the way, he confronts the ghosts of his past, grapples with his failures, and seeks redemption and understanding in the face of a rapidly changing world. This narrative weaves together themes of environmentalism, personal reflection, and the search for meaning, painting a vivid portrait of a man at odds with both himself and the society around him.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org

4. 4. Freedom And Wildness

   

   In this thought-provoking exploration of the natural world, the author delves into the intricate relationship between humanity and the untamed wilderness. Through vivid imagery and compelling narratives, the book challenges readers to reconsider their perceptions of freedom, urging a return to a more primal connection with nature. The author passionately argues for the preservation of wild spaces, emphasizing their intrinsic value and the profound impact they have on the human spirit. This work serves as both a celebration of the raw beauty of the natural world and a call to action to protect it for future generations.
5. 5. One Life At A Time, Please

   

   In this collection of essays, the author passionately defends the natural world against the encroachment of industrialization and modernity. Through a series of thought-provoking narratives, he shares his experiences and reflections on the beauty and fragility of the American wilderness. With a blend of humor, wit, and a touch of rebellion, he challenges readers to appreciate the simplicity of life and the importance of preserving the environment for future generations. His writing serves as both a call to action and a celebration of the untamed landscapes that inspire awe and introspection.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org

6. 6. Confessions Of A Barbarian

   Selections from the Journals of Edward Abbey, 1951-1989

   

   This collection of journal entries offers an unfiltered glimpse into the mind of a fiercely independent thinker, capturing the raw essence of his musings on nature, society, and the human condition. With a blend of humor, wit, and unapologetic honesty, the author reflects on his experiences in the American Southwest, his disdain for modern civilization, and his deep-seated love for the untamed wilderness. The narrative is a passionate call to preserve the natural world, challenging readers to question societal norms and embrace the beauty of the wild.

7. 7. Postcards From Ed

   Dispatches and Salvos from an American Iconoclast

   

   This collection of letters offers a candid glimpse into the mind of a passionate environmentalist and outspoken critic of modern society. Through his correspondence with friends, family, and fellow activists, the author shares his unfiltered thoughts on topics ranging from the beauty of the American Southwest to the absurdities of bureaucracy. His wit, humor, and unwavering commitment to preserving the natural world shine through in these personal exchanges, painting a vivid portrait of a man who lived life on his own terms and inspired others to do the same.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org

8. 8. Good News

   

   Set in a dystopian future where the remnants of civilization struggle to survive in a post-apocalyptic American Southwest, the narrative follows a group of rebels who resist the oppressive forces of a new authoritarian regime. As they navigate the harsh desert landscape, these characters grapple with themes of freedom, survival, and the human spirit's resilience. The story explores the tension between technological advancement and the natural world, ultimately questioning the cost of progress and the true meaning of community and hope in a fractured society.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org

9. 9. Black Sun

   The Making of the American West

   

   Set against the backdrop of the vast and untamed wilderness, this poignant narrative explores the profound connection between a solitary forest ranger and a vibrant, free-spirited artist. As they navigate the complexities of love and loss, their relationship becomes a metaphor for the delicate balance between human desires and the relentless forces of nature. The story delves into themes of isolation, longing, and the search for meaning, painting a vivid portrait of the human spirit's resilience amidst the unforgiving beauty of the natural world.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org
10. 10. Fire On The Mountain

    

    Set against the rugged backdrop of the New Mexico landscape, this gripping tale follows the story of an elderly rancher, John Vogelin, who stands resolute against the encroaching forces of government bureaucracy. As the authorities attempt to seize his land for a military testing ground, Vogelin's unwavering spirit and deep connection to the land become a symbol of resistance and defiance. The narrative explores themes of individualism, the clash between progress and tradition, and the enduring bond between man and nature, all while painting a vivid picture of the American West.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org

11. 11. Hayduke Lives!

    

    In this thrilling continuation of the environmental saga, the legendary eco-warrior George Washington Hayduke is back from the dead, ready to wage war against the industrial forces threatening the American Southwest's pristine landscapes. As the remnants of the Monkey Wrench Gang reunite, they embark on a daring mission to sabotage the destructive machinery of progress, fueled by their unwavering commitment to protect the wilderness. With humor, suspense, and a touch of anarchy, the story explores themes of rebellion, environmental activism, and the enduring spirit of resistance against corporate greed.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org

12. 12. The Brave Cowboy

    An Old Tale in a New Time

    

    Set against the backdrop of the American West, this gripping narrative follows the journey of a rugged, independent cowboy who defies the encroaching forces of modernity and conformity. As he navigates the harsh desert landscape, he becomes embroiled in a tense standoff with the authorities, who seek to impose their rigid structures on the untamed wilderness. Through his unwavering commitment to freedom and individuality, the protagonist embodies the timeless struggle between the untamed spirit of the frontier and the relentless march of progress, ultimately questioning the cost of civilization's advance.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org

13. 13. A Voice Crying In The Wilderness

    Notes from a Secret Journal

    

    This collection of essays offers a passionate and provocative exploration of the natural world, advocating for the preservation of wilderness and critiquing modern society's disconnection from nature. Through a blend of humor, insight, and fervent environmentalism, the author challenges readers to reconsider their relationship with the environment, urging a return to simplicity and a deeper appreciation for the untamed beauty of the earth. The work serves as both a call to action and a celebration of the wild landscapes that inspire and sustain the human spirit.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org

14. 14. In Praise Of Mountain Lions

    

    In this evocative exploration of the natural world, the author delves into the majestic and elusive nature of mountain lions, weaving together personal anecdotes, ecological insights, and philosophical musings. Through vivid descriptions and a deep reverence for the wild, the narrative captures the essence of these magnificent creatures and their vital role in the ecosystem. The book serves as both a celebration of the mountain lion's grace and power and a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between humans and the wilderness they inhabit.
15. 15. The Journey Home

    

    In this evocative collection of essays, the author embarks on a reflective exploration of the American Southwest, weaving together personal anecdotes, environmental musings, and philosophical insights. Through vivid descriptions and a passionate voice, the narrative delves into the beauty and fragility of the natural world, while also critiquing the encroachment of industrialization and modernity. The work serves as both a celebration of the wilderness and a call to action, urging readers to reconnect with nature and preserve the landscapes that define the spirit of the region.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org

16. 16. Beyond The Wall

    Essays from the Outside

    

    This collection of essays offers a profound exploration of the American Southwest's rugged landscapes, blending personal reflections with environmental advocacy. The author shares vivid accounts of his solitary adventures in the wilderness, highlighting the beauty and fragility of nature while critiquing modern society's encroachment on these pristine areas. Through a mix of humor, passion, and philosophical musings, the narrative encourages readers to appreciate and protect the natural world, urging a return to simpler, more harmonious ways of living.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org

17. 17. Die Monkey Wrench Gang

    

    Set against the backdrop of the American Southwest's stunning landscapes, this novel follows a ragtag group of environmental activists who band together to fight against the industrialization threatening their beloved wilderness. With a mix of humor, adventure, and rebellion, the group employs unconventional and often illegal tactics to sabotage the machinery and operations of those they see as despoilers of nature. As they navigate the challenges of their mission, they grapple with personal conflicts, ethical dilemmas, and the consequences of their actions, all while fostering a deep camaraderie and shared passion for preserving the natural world.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org

18. 18. The Brazen Gambit