It's been said the California is always a character in the creations of the state's writers. One cannot live in Steinbeck's California and not be captivated by its romance and tragedy. He recognized central California's stunning beauty and danger. Allure and cruelty combine at the continent's edge. Crouch photographs the appeal of Steinbeck country where extremes meet: mountains, seductively rounded hills, alluvial valleys, pastures, high cliffs and beaches around a seemingly placid Pacific. The land seems designed to lure predator and prey alike, only to thrust them into a contest for domination. Surely wealth lies just over the next rise, only to sllide away like outgoing tide. Cycles of drought and plenty have worked near biblical ruin on its people, and created one or another exploited class of immigrants and migrants over and over. Crouch's photos illuminate the attraction, and his text explains the coastal region's history; but it is the Steinbeck quotes which magnify the visuals' moving effect. Recommended.__Val Morehouse, Reviewer. ( )

Very precious book. Monterey before the tourist explosion on Cannery Row, mid-70s. I bring this book out for every person visiting California for the first time. ( )