A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains

I would urge all young women (and men) to read this book. as she is a remarkable woman and this is a remarkable book.The book is made up of a collection of letters written by Isabella to her sister, chronicling her time travelling around the Rocky Mountains. This may not seem overly intrepid until you realise that this was written in the 1800s and Isabella was embarking on this adventure solely, her only consistent companion a horse called Birdie, who serves her exceptionally well in extreme conditions.What should also be mentioned is that she was traveling at times in the most inclement weather with very few navigational tools, and doing this successfully and generally without incident.I loved this book. The thought of crossing peaks and ravines in the summer on a horse fills me with admiration for Isabella and her achievement but the thought of accomplishing this in the starkness of winter is mindboggling.I don't want to harp on about it because as a woman myself, I know as to what we are capable; however, Isabella is a pioneer showing resilience, bravery and pragmatism, at a time when manners and domesticity were perhaps the overwhelming attributes admired in "the fairer sex".All that said, it is the writing and its power to convey her experience that brings the book alive. She is an educated woman and this shows in her vocabulary and the phrasing that she uses to describe her majestic surroundings, bringing their beauty to life vividly, so much so that I felt I could see what she saw. I have had considerable mountain experience but her ability to create pictures in my mind with her words is astounding.The last thing to add is her relationship with "Mountain Jim" Nugent, a man of some reputation, some of it violent but some of it the height of good manners especially towards women. They strike up a friendship, based on mutual respect and Isabella's approach to this man of dubious repute is one of humanity and openness, her preconceptions very firmly controlled. They return to each other's company again and again. Was it a romance? It has been suggested but not confirmed.Whatever the truth, it is of no matter. All you need to know is that Isabella Bird is a formidable human, on so many levels and this book is testament to that.Read it.

Always interested in women regardless of age or adversity doing what interests them, I.e. travelling to unknown places. Inspirational

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An interesting read.

A fab book but this isn’t a nice version

Liked all the read, well written.