A collection of essays dedicated to the awe and solitude that can only be found in nature-now in paperback!

Step outside and marvel at the grand experience of the North-the power of a storm building on the greatest of the Great Lakes, the glory of Northern Lights in the shimmering night sky, the embracing, absolute silence of a snowhouse. Or stay inside with Quiet Magic and savor Sam Cook’s unique blend of sensitive portrayals and gentle humor.

Starting with his discovery of one of nature’s wonders-the simplicity of a stand of reeds against a wide-open sunset-and ending with a deep appreciation for the never-ending surprises of the outdoors, Sam Cook weaves a tapestry of enchanting images of the North Woods and keeps you smiling and chuckling all the way.In this long-awaited paperback edition, Sam Cook invites you to look outward to discover the North Country, and look inward to discover yourself."A special book about a special place." Jim Brandenburg, National Geographic"An uncommonly compassionate writer, Cook is arguably Minnesota’s best-loved newspaper columnist." Minnesota Monthly"The word pictures in Sam Cook’s latest literary sketch pad are poignant reminders of the depth of wonder and enjoyment that can be drawn from every experience in nature’s world." Paul Schurke, North Pole explorer

In 1976 Sam Cook rekked north from his native Kansas to work for an outfitter in the Superior-Quetico canoe country. Now, as the Duluth News-Tribune’s outdoors writer, he uses Duluth, Minnesota, as “base camp” for creating his humorous, powerful, and compassionate columns.