From Library Journal
Conrad's new book is as much a fascinating treatise on Mexico's natural history as it is a practical trail guide. Naturalist Conrad (The Maya Road: No Frills Guide to Hiking in Mexico and On the Road to Tetlama: Mexican Adventures of a Wandering Naturalist, LJ 6/1/91) devotes approximately half the book to a discussion of the climate, geology, and biology of Mexico's 11 physiographic zones. The 20-day hikes described include detailed information on the flora, fauna, and peoples native to each trail. The selected hikes represent the country's diverse terrain, guiding the adventurer through deserts, forests, mountains, grasslands, and tropical coastlines. Travel tips on passports, transportation, currency, gear, and staying healthy are also offered. An extensive bibliography of books in Spanish and English, as well as a list of Mexican plants and animals, including scientific names, accompany the text. Over 100 color and black-and-white photos complement the text. This book is ideal for both the naturalist and the hiker and is highly recommended for all libraries. [Illustrations not seen.) [For more works on travel to Mexico, see "Your Passport to Mexio/Caribbean Guidebooks," LJ 3/1/95, p. 39-43.?Ed.]?Pamela Bellows, Northwestern Connecticut Community Technical Coll. Lib., Winsted, Ct.
-?Pamela Bellows, Northwestern Connecticut Community Technical Coll. Lib., Winsted, Ct.Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Review
Mexico's unique and varied terrain (desert, forest, savanna, grassland, and tropical coastline) invites curiosity and exploration. Mexico: A Hiker's Guide to Mexico's Natural History is the only guide that steers walkers through this intriguing landscape while illuminating its natural history. The guide includes over 20 day hikes, most from 1 to 12 miles in length, that lead walkers to such intriguing destinations as prime birdwatching spots, ancient Indian ruins, and deserts with giant cacti. The relationships between earth, climate, and vegetation that make up Mexico's eleven different physiographic zones are also explored in depth. Chapters on native wildlife and human history complete the story. Jim Conrad's Mexico also provides invaluable information on the practical concerns of Mexican travel: clothing, gear, food and water, personal security, staying healthy, and avoiding outdoor hazards. --
Midwest Book Review
