Sandstone Sunsets: In Search of Everett Ruess

by Mark A. Taylor

It is difficult to explain what gets under a persons skin and sets him or her off on the road to solve a puzzle or riddle that any reasonable person might - quickly conclude was unsolvable. The 1934 disappearance of poet and adventurer Everett Ruess in Utah's red rock country is the mystery that is under author Mark A. Taylor's skin, but his attempts to solve this mystery led him in an unexpected direction-within. In his southern Utah treks, Taylor encounters hikers, Native Americans, artists, Vietnam vets, and other colorful characters. Still, his most significant encounter is himself, and, though he may never discover the remains of Ruess, his self-discovery is the unexpected bonus. Shortly before vanishing, Everett Ruess wrote of his affinity with nature and his love of the desert, "This trip will be longer than I expected, for I will Le in many beautiful places, and do not wish to taste, hut to drink deep." These words become a metaphor lor the journey of sell-discovery experienced through Sandstone Sunsets. Mark A Taylor is a novelist, investigative journalist, editor, essayist, and lecturer. He lives and works in the West, writing about the land and its people. Taylor has published in Esquire and Penthouse and has also published the novel A Tale of Ancient Lives. He is he founder and publisher of the critically acclaimed art and literary journal Neologism.

Paperback

First published August 1, 1997

Reviews

[Abigail sparks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Living in Utah and being taken to those same remote deserts my whole life it was incredible to read about a solitary journey in a place so familiar. Even more interesting to read about the individuals I am connected to from another view, really incredible work.

[Duane W. Stockton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The author did a great job describing the landscape and the locale and at times I felt like I was right there alongside Everett. I also like that he offered possibilities as to why he disappeared, finding myself drawn into a great mystery that was actually real. Everett was naïve in many ways, but he had the courage to follow his heart. How many of us today would be willing to do what he did?

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where did this guy disappear to? Great book and even better if you've visited the area!

[Mariya]

NO

[Ty · Rating 5 out of 5]

i love this book .it was well written and sometimes made one think he was there along for the trip.