"All But The Waltz" is a poignant memoir that weaves together personal narrative and the history of the American West. Through a series of essays, the author reflects on her family's past and the hardships they endured, including loss, isolation, and the struggle to maintain a ranch in the harsh Montana landscape. The book delves into themes of memory, identity, and the changing face of the West, as the author grapples with her own place in a lineage of strong but troubled ancestors. It is a meditation on the complexities of family legacy and the bittersweet dance of embracing one's heritage while stepping into the future.

"Grizzly Years" is a memoir of a Vietnam War veteran who finds solace in the wilderness of the American West, specifically in observing grizzly bears. The book chronicles his years of tracking these majestic creatures across the Rockies and Yellowstone, and his efforts to protect them from human threats. The narrative intertwines the author's personal journey of healing from war trauma with his passionate advocacy for grizzly bear conservation.

The book tells the tragic story of 13 smokejumpers who lost their lives in the 1949 Mann Gulch fire in Montana. The author examines the circumstances leading up to the disaster, the fire's aftermath, and its lasting impact. The narrative combines elements of reportage, biography, and nature writing, and it serves as a meditation on writing, grief, and the human character.

This book is a historical exploration of the American West, specifically the region of Eastern Montana. The author delves into the experiences of the British and Scandinavian settlers who were lured to this area in the early 20th century by railroad advertisements promising fertile farmland. Through a combination of historical research, personal narratives, and travelogue-style observations, the author paints a vivid picture of the harsh realities these settlers faced, including drought, isolation, and economic hardship. The book also reflects on the lasting impact of these experiences on the region's culture and identity.

"Hyperbole And A Half" is a humorous and deeply personal memoir that combines witty anecdotes and colorful illustrations to explore the author's experiences with mental health, childhood, and adulthood. Through a series of hilarious and relatable stories, the book offers a unique perspective on life's challenges and the power of humor in navigating them.

"Collapse" is an exploration of why certain societies throughout history have thrived while others have deteriorated and collapsed. The book delves into environmental problems, climate change, rapid population growth, and unwise political decisions as factors that contribute to the downfall of a civilization. The author uses examples from history such as the Mayans, the Vikings in Greenland, and modern examples like Rwanda and Haiti, to illustrate his points. It serves as both a historical analysis and a warning for modern societies to learn from the past in order to avoid a similar fate.

"Custer's Trials" is a biography that delves into the life and character of George Armstrong Custer, a United States Army officer and cavalry commander in the American Civil War and the American Indian Wars. The book provides a detailed account of Custer's life, from his childhood to his military career, and his ultimate demise at the Battle of Little Bighorn. It also explores his personal life, including his marriage to Libbie Bacon and his controversial relationships with Native American women. The book offers a nuanced view of Custer, portraying him as a complex, often contradictory figure who was both a product of his time and a man who defied societal norms.