Memories of a Simpler Life in the Wilds of Alaska
Mike Kerr writes his boyhood experiences growing up in remote fishing village on Kodiak Island, Alaska, and his life-changing encounter with a little lynx kitten, in the fascinating children's book, "Mike and a Lynx named Kitty."
Tekoa, WA (PRWEB) December 18, 2006 -- In the style of the great wilderness classics, Mike Kerr releases "Mike and a Lynx named Kitty" (ISBN 1931195366), a touching story about a place and time close to his heart. Coming-of-age in a commercial fishing village in the remote wilderness of Alaska during the 1940's proved a fulfilling experience for a young Kerr as he learned about nature, wildlife, and the importance of family.
Based predominately on his own life, plus the experiences of a few friends, Kerr's book transcends modern times, and takes the reader on a journey mostly found these days in history books. Like other boys at that time, he began fishing, hunting and trapping at a young age in preparation for an expected life of hard work. His playtime was filled with one amazing adventure after another as he discovered life throughout the forests of Kodiak Island.
The deep relationship Kerr builds with an orphaned lynx kitten he found on a camping trip became the defining experience of his youth, and one he still recollects with precise clarity. Kerr developed a long and cherished friendship with the animal and tells how their many experiences together taught him about love and trust. He is eventually faced with the decision of allowing it to remain wild, and learns how to balance his respect for nature with his own humanity.
"The book is actually about making right choices," says Kerr, "and taking responsibility once you have made those choices." Living close to the land created a vision of life for Kerr that hasn't wavered from his childhood. To this day, he still carries the ideals of his youth close to heart, and hopes to pass these on through his writing.
Kerr shares freely his experiences about life around a fishing camp, wilderness survival, wildlife on land and sea, and respect for the environment. He adds an excitement and wonder to his storytelling that will inspire young children looking towards the future, and elders as they nostalgically remember the past. His book has been used in reading classes with great success as children become fascinated knowing it is based on Kerr's life. This uncomplicated story expresses traditional values and brings with it a yearning for a simpler lifestyle - it is a worthy read for both the young and young at heart.
Mike Kerr lives in Tekoa, WA. He has been a guest author on Native American Calling, and is the subject of several local newspaper articles, and loves to share his experiences about his boyhood in Alaska. He began his outline for the book 20 years ago when he was learning to type, and picked it up again 3 ½ years ago when his wife, who had always encouraged him to write, passed away. "Mike and a Lynx named Kitty" (ISBN 1931195366) can be purchased at online bookstores, or www.kiwepublishing.com
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