Conrad Kain: Letters from a Wandering Mountain Guide, 1906-1933

CONTENTSForewordConrad Kain, Guide and MountaineerChic ScottAcknowledgementsMapsAustria; the Canadian Rockies and Columbias; the Southern Alps of New ZealandIntroductionLetters from the ArchivesPart OneA Young Guide in Europe, 1906–1909Part TwoYour Friend in the Western Woods, 1909–1912Part ThreeThe Wanderer, 1912–1916Part FourWith Greetings, From Wilmer, 1920–1933EpilogueThe Kain-Malek Correspondence: Provenance, 1934–2005Don BourdonBibliographyIndex

Conrad Kain is a titan amongst climbers in Canada and is well-known in mountaineering circles all over the world. His letters to Amelie Malek-a life-long friend-offer a candid view into the deepest thoughts of the Austrian mountain guide, and are a perfect complement to his autobiography, Where the Clouds Can Go. The 144 letters provide a unique and personal view of what it meant to immigrate to Canada in the early part of the twentieth century. Kain's letters are ordered chronologically with annotations, keeping the sections in English untouched, while those in German have been carefully translated. Historians and mountain culture enthusiasts worldwide will appreciate Kain's genius for description, his passion for nature, his opinions, and his musings about his life."Simple, beautiful, and thoughtfully handled volume of letters. Though the content is historical in nature, the typography feels fresh and of this time--a nice complement to the old full-bleed photographs. The synopsis of events on the part openers provides a helpful overview of each section." - Renate Gokl - Juror, AAUP Book, Jacket, and Journal Show - 20150702