Customer Reviews

Valley of the Dunes: Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

5 star:		(13)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
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As a Colorado native I've spent a lot of time in the San Luis Valley and there is finally a book that goes beyond the obvious subject of the Sand Dunes. Anyone can find the beauty there, but to photograph all the critters and tell about dozens of unique places throughout the Valley is outstanding! I've explored the Rio Grande, the wildlife refuges, and some of the drainages, but rarely have these interesting places appeared as beautifully as depicted in Valley of the Dunes. I'm thrilled these authors and photographers have gone beyond the obvious and introduced such a special place to everyone who treasures new and unique experiences.

This award winning book is a must have for anyone visiting or wanting to visit this magnificant national park. The photography is spectacular and the writing superb, providing insight to a landscape that is more complex and varied than a casual inspection can reveal.

We've been to the Sand Dunes twice but everytime we turn a page in this book it makes us want to go back and see it at different times of days and seasons.

VALLEY OF THE DUNES (Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve- 2010 edition)is exceptional, impressive, magnificent...and comes as no surprise. Photographers Bob Rozinski and Wendy Shattil have long set the standard for outstanding wildlife, habitat and landscape photography, and this edition is no exception. It is a true visual indulgence into the often overlooked 'spectacularness' of the San Luis Valley. The accompanying text, by Audrey DeLella Benedict, is articulate, concise and enhances the reader's visual journey. As one who has driven through the San Luis Valley, and spent time exploring the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserves, I was awed when actually there. I am beyond awed by what these individuals have created. VALLEY OF THE DUNES (2010)is a beautiful collection of exquisite photographs. If you are not drawn into each image, please see your eye doctor. Don't be surprised if you find yourself conflicted by wanting to linger on one page while feeling eager to 'oooo' and 'ahhh' at the next. For anyone who appreciates the serenity, beauty and inspiration of nature, wildlife, scenic landscapes...this captivating book...an exquisite photographic tour of an area that beckons...is one you should not miss.

I own the first edition of this book, I bought 3 of the new books to give as gifts and decided to keep one because the new photos are magnificent. We've visited the Sand Dunes many times. Every time I look at this book it makes me want to go back and see the dunes in different seasons.

This book introduced me to this little known national park - what a special treat! The photos are breathtaking, & the text was insightful & informative
Just looking at this book makes me want to go back & to go back in all seasons
The book is a work of art as much as it is educational - the best of both worlds!

As a photographer hobbyist, I found this book to be an inspiration. The idea of taking an area and photographing it over a long time to make it your own is a revelation. I've been inspired to try the same thing at a favorite canyon in my area. Great addition to every photographer's image library!

Heard about the book this past Friday when Senator Ken Salazar gave a copy to Chief Justice Nominee John Roberts as a gift. Picked up a copy this weekend and love it. Incredible photography, and stunning text - plus you can't beat the price! A great gift book for those who love Colorado, the National Parks, are concerned about the environment or just love the outdoors. BUY IT!!!

I don't usually take the time to write reviews but in this case, I felt I had to - this book is really beautiful. I am inspired by the pictures - they make me miss Colorado. I compared this to the previous book before buying it and the choice was obvious - this "update" really improves upon the first edition. I recommend it wholeheartedly. This team did an amazing job.

This book should be required reading for anyone visiting or wanting to visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. The photography is spectacular and the writing superb, providing powerful insight to a landscape that is more complex and varied than any casual inspection could reveal. The only thing better than the first edition is the second edition that not only has new content but improved image quality.