There's an effortless charm and casualness about Max Miller's writing that makes delightful reading. This is a new background -- a trip over long months, to coast points of Alaska, and the outlying islands. Vivid -- simple -- anecdotal -- human, one gets a real sense of the place and the people, the life and the deadening monotony to an outsider. There is a distinct Max Miller following. This should appeal to them -- and have a wider sale to include those who like sea and travel books.