501 Spanish Verbs  •  Christopher Kendris LANGUAGE & PHRASEBOOKS •  2003 •  PAPER  • 600 PAGES The perennial favorite among students of Spanish, revised with a bonus CD-ROM. Organized alphabetically, each of the often irregular verbs gets its own page -- complete with all the verb tenses, examples and common idioms. The book is both a reference for Spanish speakers and a tool for beginners. Por que no hay como hablar Espanol sin verbos. O algo asi. (GEN134, $16.99)
About This Life, Journeys on the Threshold of Memory  •  Barry Lopez ANTHOLOGY •  1999 •  PAPER  • 273 PAGES A collection of essays on far-flung travels -- both actual and internal -- by the wonderful writer and traveler. Lopez includes Galapagos, Hokkaido, Bonaire and Antarctica among the thoughtful essays. As in all his work, the book is a rare combination of fine writing, adventure, insight and personal reflection. (GEN42, $13.95)
Amazon Stranger, A Rainforest Chief Battles Big Oil  •  Mike Tidwell CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  2000 •  PAPER  • 224 PAGES Here's an unlikely story, well told. Journalist Tidwell journeyed to the Ecuadorian Amazon, where the local people have successfully battled against Big Oil. The integrity of the Cuyabeno forest and the way of life of the Cofan people have been preserved -- mostly thanks to the savvy of their leader Randy Borman, a white man raised in the jungle by missionaries. Although he ventured to college in the United States, Borman returned to his roots, married a local woman and has raised a family as the chief of this small band of indigenous people. More or less against his better judgement, Tidwell has immersed himself in customs and traditions of the Cofan. His book is a detailed, entertaining portrait of them, the Ecuadorian Amazon, and the Cofan way of life. (AMZ01, $16.95)
Andean Lives: Gregorio Condori Mamani & Asunta Quispe Huaman  •  Paul Gelles  •  Ricardo Valderrama Fernandez  •  Carmen Escalante Gutierrez CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  1996 •  PAPER  • 216 PAGES A classic oral history as told to two Peruvian anthropologists in the 1970s. It's a moving account of life among the urban poor in Cuzco, offering insight into history and society in the Andes. With notes, bibliography and full scholarly paraphernalia it is above all an emotional tale of poverty, hardship and grace. (PRU14, $17.95)
Apus and Incas: A Cultural Walking and Trekking Guide to Cuzco  •  Charles Brod GUIDEBOOK •  1989 •  PAPER  • 169 PAGES The author describes recommended tours of Cuzco and its surroundings (including the Inka Trail and Ollantaytambo), combining practical itineraries with commentary on the natural and cultural history of this sacred city. Illustrated with maps, drawings, and photographs. (PRU03, $10.95)
Between the Lines, The Mystery of the Giant Ground Drawings of Ancient Nasca  •  Anthony Aveni ARCHAEOLOGY •  2000 •  HARD COVER  • 320 PAGES A wide ranging, scholarly overview of the Nasca Lines -- the best thing to come along on the subject in a decade. Aveni, who first became intrigued by the enigmatic figures on a jaunt from Cusco in the 1970s, has since logged countless hours among the spirals, zigzags, ray centers, and other lines carved in the desert of Southern Peru. In this book written for a popular audience he discusses previous theories about the significance of the lines, putting forward intriguing new ideas about how the lines may have related to sources of water. It's a follow-up to his more academic 1991 monograph "The Lines of Nasca." (PRU22, $39.95)
Billy Budd, Sailor and Other Stories  •  Herman Melville LITERATURE •  1989 •  PAPER  • 385 PAGES A collection of short fiction including "Las Encantadas," ten sketches firmly set in a highly stylized Galapagos Islands (which Melville visited during his whaling days). In his vision, the islands are a kind of hell, a wasteland. (GPS37, $9.00)
Billy Budd, Sailor and Selected Tales  •  Robert Milder  •  Herman Melville LITERATURE •  2001 •  PAPER  • 464 PAGES A selection of Melville's most popular shorter works, including "The Encantadas," a collection of sketches based on the author's experiences in the Galapagos Islands. It also includes Bartleby, the Scrivener, Cock-A-Doodle-Doo!, The Fiddler, The Paradise of Bachelors and the Tartarus of Maids, The Lightning-Rod Man, Benito Cereno, I and My Chimney and the title story, Billy Budd. (GPL84, $7.95)
Birds of Ecuador, Vol. 1: Status, Distribution and Taxonomy  •  Paul Greenfield  •  Robert Ridgely FIELD GUIDE •  2001 •  PAPER  • 848 PAGES An exhaustively researched, comprehensive reference with detailed species accounts covering distribution and abundance, conservation, taxonomy, and range. Interesting or important species often get a full page. While intended as a reference, serious birders will devour the detailed information on individual species, along with the introductory chapters on habitats and centers of endemism in Ecuador. The 30-page gazetteer covers localities, geographic areas and towns mentioned in the text serves as a guide to where to see birds in Ecuador. Also available as a two-volume set (EDR14) with the gorgeously illustrated Field Guide (EDR08). (EDR07, $85.00)
The Birds of Ecuador, Vol. I and II  •  Robert Ridgely  •  Paul Greenfield FIELD GUIDE •  2001 •  PAPER  • 1632 PAGES The two-volume set with slipcase. (EDR14, $120.00)
The Birds of South America, The Oscine Passerines, Vol. 1  •  Guy Tudor  •  Robert Ridgely FIELD GUIDE •  1989 •  HARD COVER  • 596 PAGES An authoritative reference, this hefty volume features 31 splendid full-color plates by Guy Tudor covering 700 species of jays and swallows, wrens, thrushes, vireos and wood-warblers, tanagers, icterids and finches. The first of four anticipated volumes on the birds of South America. With distribution maps and species descriptions by ornithologist Robert Ridgely. (FG28, $95.00)
The Birds of South America, The Oscine Passerines, Vol. 2  •  Guy Tudor  •  Robert Ridgely FIELD GUIDE •  1994 •  HARD COVER The second volume of the projected four-volume series, this field guide and handbook covers the flycatchers, antbirds and furnariids. With fine color plates by Guy Tudor and lucid text by Ridgely. (FG29, $95.00)
Boobies, Iguanas, and Other Critters  •  Linda Litteral NATURAL HISTORY •  1994 •  HARD COVER  • 71 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) This beautifully illustrated book is an overview of the Galápagos Islands for middle readers (ages 10-14). Clear, detailed and accurate, it tackles the volcanic formation of the Galápagos, ecology and wildlife, scientific research and other topics. (GPS16, $27.25)
Bradt Climbing and Hiking Guide Ecuador  •  Rob Rachowiecki  •  Mark Thurber  •  Betsy Wagenhauser GUIDEBOOK •  2004 •  PAPER  • 288 PAGES An indispensable guide to hiking in Ecuador, especially if you want to explore the off-trails. Fifth edition. (EDR09, $19.95)
Bradt Trekking Guide Peru and Bolivia  •  Hilary Bradt GUIDEBOOK •  2002 •  PAPER  • 358 PAGES This classic guide for exploring the Andes of Peru and Bolivia is great for both practical trail information and general information on the region. It's a compact overview, featuring not only walks and treks but also an extensive introduction. Eighth edition. (BOL04, $17.95)
The Bridge of San Luis Rey  •  Thornton Wilder LITERATURE •  2003 •  PAPER  • 148 PAGES The classic novel by the Pulitzer Prize-winning Wilder, originally published in 1928, is set in Peru of 200 years ago. The story, about five travelers who are killed when a bridge built by the Incas collapses, is told from the point of view of a Franciscan missionary. (AND08, $12.95)
Charles Darwin, The Concise Story of an Extraordinary Man  •  Tim M. Berra BIOGRAPHY/MEMOIR •  2008 •  HARD COVER  • 136 PAGES Published to coincide with the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin's birth, this compact, illustrated biography tells the fascinating story of the person and the idea that changed everything. (SCI239, $19.95)
Charles Darwin: Voyaging, A Biography  •  Janet Browne BIOGRAPHY/MEMOIR •  1996 •  PAPER  • 605 PAGES This first volume of the acclaimed biography of Darwin covers the first part of his life as he develops the earth-shattering ideas that culminate in the publication of On the Origin of Species. (GPS29, $25.95)
Coevolution, Genes, Culture, and Human Diversity  •  William H. Durham SCIENCE •  1992 •  PAPER  • 656 PAGES Durham proposes a powerful new theory of cultural evolution. His idea that the descent with modification of the shared conceptual systems we call "cultures" is parallel in many ways to Darwin's original theory. (SCI227, $40.95)
Conquistadors  •  Michael Wood HISTORY •  2002 •  PAPER  • 288 PAGES A lively, illustrated account of the Spanish conquest of the New World by the intrepid writer-filmmaker Michael Wood, who traveled in the footsteps of Hernan Cortes, Pizarro and others, often by horse, raft or other original means. It's an excellent introduction to the overwhelming impact of the Spanish in the Americas, wonderfully illustrated with maps, drawings and full color paintings. (SAM48, $22.95)
The Cordillera del Condor Region of Ecuador and Peru  •  Thomas Schulenberg NATURAL HISTORY •  1998 •  PAPER  • 232 PAGES A report of two "Rapid Assessment Program" surveys taken in 1993 and 1994, this book catalogs the biological resources of the lower mountain forests of Ecuador and Peru. With maps and line drawings. (AND16, $17.00)
Darwin, The Life of a Tormented Evolutionist  •  Adrian Desmond  •  James Moore BIOGRAPHY/MEMOIR •  1994 •  PAPER  • 808 PAGES An influential, vividly written biography of Darwin. (GEN13, $23.95)
The Discovery and Conquest of Peru  •  Pedro de Cieza de Leon HISTORY •  1999 •  PAPER  • 501 PAGES A detailed account of the Spanish occupation of Peru told by a seasoned Spanish chronicler who interviewed living witnesses years after the events involved. Perhaps the most thorough of the contemporary chronicles told from the point of view of the conquerers. (AND25, $26.95)
The Diversity of Life  •  E.O. Wilson NATURAL HISTORY •  1999 •  PAPER  • 424 PAGES This world tour by two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning biologist and author E.O. Wilson is wonderfully readable: an insightful, candid and elegant story of the evolution of life on our planet. With a focus on ecosystems, the book chronicles the rich diversity of species and how they came about. It catalogs the history of mass extinctions -- and presents a forceful argument that, unless we take care, our species may precipitate the greatest single episode of extinctions. Beautifully illustrated, this lyrical book is a celebration of life. Ed Wilson is a member of WWF's Board of Directors. (CON02, $17.95)
Ecology and Evolution of Darwin's Finches  •  Peter R. Grant  •  Jonathan Weiner NATURAL HISTORY •  1999 •  PAPER  • 492 PAGES • HARD TO FIND ELSEWHERE A scholarly, readable account of Grant's comprehensive study of Darwin's finches, including a forward by Jonathan Weiner (who wrote "Beak of the Finch") and an update by Peter Grant -- who has devoted his life's work to the evolution and ecology of these curious Galapagos birds. For those not put off by charts and tables and the language of population ecology, it's a fascinating book and an excellent example of a long-term ecological study. A volume in "Princeton Science Library" and modern classic of evolution first published in 1986. With 20 color illustrations. (GPS44, $41.00)
Ecuador Map  •  Borch Maps 2005 •  MAP A detailed laminated map of Ecuador at a scale of 1:1,000,000. This is a very clear, colorful double-sided map with detailed insets of Quito, Guayaquil, Galapagos and the Ecuadorian Amazon (Oriente) on the reverse. (EDR03, $10.95)
Ecuador Traveler's Companion  •  Traveler's Companion GUIDEBOOK •  2001 •  PAPER  • 272 PAGES A compact, practical guide to Ecuador. (EDR17, $25.95)
Ecuador, A Travel Journal  •  Henri Michaux  •  Robin Magowan TRAVEL NARRATIVE •  2001 •  PAPER  • 144 PAGES • FAVORITE A brief, querulous and entirely wonderful account of travels in Ecuador with the poet Gangotena, strong on color and personality and thin on travel practicalities. First published in 1929, the unlikely modernist Belgian-French painter and poet in Quito includes an unbeatable description of the accursed weather among his many impressions. The translator, who also provides an introduction, called "Ecuador" the first modern travel book and its sketches, prose poems, diary fragments and ruminations are certainly closer to the surrealists than the Victorians. (EDR16, $17.95)
Ecuador, Enchantment of the World  •  Marion Morrison CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  2000 •  HARD COVER  • 127 PAGES • MIDDLE READERS (Age 9-12) A comprehensive overview of the geography and people of Ecuador for children ages 9-12. A volume in the Enchantment of the World series intended for the library market, this book is a thoroughly illustrated and carefully compiled description of the nature, history, people, religion, culture and economy of Ecuador. (GPS33, $37.00)
Ever Since Darwin, Reflections in Natural History  •  Stephen Jay Gould NATURAL HISTORY •  2007 •  PAPER  • 288 PAGES In these delightful essays, enormously well infomed, thoughtful and a joy to read, Gould effortlessly explicates the wonders of evolution. His essay on Darwin's theory of evolution is utterly dead-on. (NAT15, $15.95)
Evolution, The First Four Billion Years  •  Michael Ruse  •  Travis, Joseph SCIENCE •  2009 •  HARD COVER  • 608 PAGES • COMING IN FEBRUARY A tribute, published in celebration of the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin and the 150th anniversary of the Origin of Species. (NAT150, $39.95)
Evolution, The Remarkable History of a Scientific Theory  •  Edward Larson NATURAL HISTORY •  2006 •  PAPER  • 368 PAGES Pulitzer Prize-winning writer and historian Edward Larson examines the multifaceted history of the scientific theory which has had such an impact on twentieth century thought. Larson begins his study before Darwin, with the scientific breakthroughs of the French Revolution, and then examines Darwin's work and its effects, from the age of Social Darwinism up to present day genetics and evolutionary studies. He focuses on the social and political controversies that have surrounded evolutionary theory, particularly in the United States. (NAT64, $14.95)
Explore the Inca Trail  •  Jacquetta Megarry  •  Roy Davies GUIDEBOOK •  2006 •  FLEXI-BOUND  • 64 PAGES A brief, ingeniously designed guide to trekking in the Sacred Valley from Cusco to Machu Picchu with color photographs, a fold-out map of the route, site diagram of Machu Pichu and a camp-to-camp overview of the Inca trail. The authors, both experienced trekkers, include detailed avice on preparing for the trip, and a good overview of the site itself. The step-by-step sections cover the Classic trail from Chilca/Km 82/Km 88, the shortest option from Km 104, and the 5-6 day, more strenuous Mollepata trek. (AND33, $15.95)
Explorer of Machu Picchu, Portrait of Hiram Bingham  •  Alfred M. Bingham BIOGRAPHY/MEMOIR •  2000 •  PAPER  • 381 PAGES A biography of the Andes explorer, Yale professor, senator and diplomat by his son, originally published in 1989. Much of the book is devoted to Bingham's original (and subsequent) Peruvian expeditions, much enhanced by hundreds of archival photographs, drawings and maps. (AND32, $15.95)
The Far Side of the World  •  Patrick O'Brian LITERATURE •  1992 •  PAPER  • 366 PAGES This tale, set in 1812, features a trip around Cape Horn, as Stephen Maturin, Patrick O'Brian's wonderful opium-addicted naturalist, explores the New World with his pal Jack Aubrey. If you haven't yet been introduced to O'Brian's vivid portraits of Nelson's British Navy, here's your chance to dip into this fine series, with a book featuring evocative descriptions of Patagonian wildlife and features of the natural environment. A great read (and a great reread for O'Brian fans). (SAM01, $13.95)
A Field Guide to Sea Stars and Other Echinoderms of the Galapagos  •  Cleveland P. Hickman FIELD GUIDE •  1998 •  PAPER  • 83 PAGES • HARD TO FIND ELSEWHERE A spiral-bound field guide illustrating 62 species of sea stars, urchins and sea cucumbers, including endemic species. With 100 color photographs and information on distribution and natural history. (GPS31, $18.95)
A Field Guide to the Birds of Peru  •  James Clements  •  Noam Shany  •  Dana Gardner  •  Eustace Barnes FIELD GUIDE •  2001 •  PAPER  • 283 PAGES A comprehensive field guide to the birds of Peru with color plates by Eustace Barnes and Dana Gardner illustrating almost 1,800 species. It covers the diversity of birds and habitats from the Amazon to Andes and Pacific coast. Admirably compact, short descriptions of each species focus on identification, habitat and distribution. With a gazetteer of localities and both English and Spanish names. You can preview (and buy) examples of the color plates at the artist's website: gardnerbirds.com. (PRU21, $60.00)
Fire from the Andes, Short Fiction by Women from Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru  •  Susan E. Benner ANTHOLOGY •  1998 •  PAPER  • 208 PAGES An anthology of contemporary stories from the Andes, this book includes contributions by 24 women from Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia. Mostly personal, many of the stories revolve around peasants, the urban poor and other marginalized members of society. With a biography of each contributor. (AND17, $24.95)
The Fishes of the Galapagos Islands  •  Jack Grove  •  Robert Lavenberg FIELD GUIDE •  1997 •  HARD COVER  • 936 PAGES An essential reference with hundreds of color photographs and detailed information on range, distribution and natural history for 437 species. (GPS32, $140.00)
The Flight of the Iguana: A Sidelong View of Science and Nature  •  David Quammen NATURAL HISTORY •  1998 •  PAPER  • 320 PAGES A marvelous, witty collection of essays. Even keen naturalists will be thrilled that Quammen gets his facts straight. His essay on a visit to the Galapagos is terrific, and the whole book sheds light on how evolution works. (NAT16, $15.00)
Flora of the Galapagos Islands  •  Ira Wiggins  •  Duncan Porter FIELD GUIDE •  1971 •  HARD COVER  • 988 PAGES The standard reference for the flora of the Galapagos, compiled in the 1960s by Ira Wiggins and Duncan Porter. (GPS43, $145.00)
Flowering Plants of the Galapagos  •  Conley McMullen  •  Ghillean Prance FIELD GUIDE •  1999 •  PAPER  • 370 PAGES A much welcome field guide to 436 species of flowering plants, featuring McCullen's own color photographs, an overview of ecology and habitats, and an extremely useful botanical checklist by visitor site. While not nearly as celebrated as Darwin's finches or the sea-going iguana, the divergence of plants such as the endemic prickly pear cactus or Scalesia (an endemic genus in the daisy family with 15 species) in Galapagos, is just as interesting and important. A full page is devoted to each species, including a detailed description, habitat, distribution, a color photograph and comments on ecology, history and identification. Organized according to growth form, leaf pattern and flower color -- and bristling with botanic terms -- this is a long-awaited essential guide for those of us interested in plants. It's intended not just for botanically minded visitors but also for naturalist guides, residents and researchers. (GPS40, $31.50)
Footprint Cuzco & the Inca Heartland Handbook  •  Ben Box  •  Stephen Frankham GUIDEBOOK •  2008 •  PAPER  • 352 PAGES Comprehensive and up-to-date, this exceptional guide covers Cuzco and surroundings, including the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, Tambopata, Manu Park and Lima in detail. (PRU46, $23.95)
Footprint Ecuador & Galapagos Handbook  •  Robert & Daisy Kunstaetter GUIDEBOOK •  2007 •  PAPER  • 500 PAGES By the venerable British publishers of the "South American Handbook," this guide is built for the road with sturdy covers and a sewn binding. It's nicely divided between a general overview of Ecuador, and exhaustive detail on where to go and what to do. Essential for the independent traveler or anyone interested in getting off the beaten track. (EDR05, $23.95)
Footprint Peru Handbook  •  Alan Murphy GUIDEBOOK •  2005 •  PAPER  • 656 PAGES By the venerable British publishers of the "South American Handbook," this guide is built for the road with sturdy covers and a sewn binding. It's nicely divided between a general overview of Peru and practical travel detail on where to go and what to do. (PRU27, $24.95)
Galapagos at the Crossroads: Pirates, Biologists, Tourists, and Creationists Battle for Darwin's Cradle of Evolution  •  Carol Ann Bassett SCIENCE •  2009 •  HARD COVER  • 304 PAGES • COMING IN APRIL A journalist who lived in Puerto Ayrora, where she directs a summer program, Bassett focuses on not only the threats to the archipelago but also the often colorful biologists, conservationists and others working to protect the archipelago. (GPS86, $26.00)
Geology  •  Frank Rhodes FIELD GUIDE •  2001 •  PAPER A brief, authoritative overview of the geology of Earth, its relation to the universe, and a survey of rocks, minerals and formation. A Golden Guide. (GEO18, $6.95)
A Guide to the Birds of Colombia  •  Steven Hilty  •  William Brown FIELD GUIDE •  1986 •  PAPER  • 836 PAGES A classic South American bird guide with good coverage of the Amazon basin. It features 56 color plates by Guy Tudor, illustrating 1,700 species -- nearly half of all the species of South America. With a short description on the facings edge along with extensive notes and range maps. It may weigh in at almost three pounds but serious birders won't leave home without it -- and you can always have the color plates bound separately for use in the field. (FG14, $67.50)
A Guide to the Birds of Venezuela  •  Steven Hilty  •  Guy Tudor  •  J.A. Gwynne FIELD GUIDE •  2002 •  PAPER  • 929 PAGES A thoroughly overhauled, revised edition of the classic South American bird guide, with an entirely new and expanded text by Steve Hilty (who also wrote Birds of Colombia). This hefty book (more than a field guide) features many of the same excellent color plates by Guy Tudor as the 1978 classic with new detailed information on habitats and distribution. Too bad it weighs four pounds, two ounces because it is terrific. John Gwynne provided most of the additional plates, 67 in all. 1,400 species have been recorded in the diverse habitats of Venezuela, almost half of the birds found throughout the mountains, forests and plains of all South America. (FG13, $59.50)
The Incas and their Ancestors, The Archaeology of Peru  •  Michael Moseley ARCHAEOLOGY •  2001 •  PAPER  • 288 PAGES An outstanding survey of the archaeology of the Inca, Moche and Nasca civilizations. With hundreds of color illustrations and line drawings, it's an in-depth look at the ancient cultures and history of Peru. The best general introduction to the subject. (AND06, $33.95)
Latin American Art  •  John F. Scott ART & ARCHITECTURE •  2000 •  PAPER  • 240 PAGES A popular survey for undergraduate art students, this general history of the arts in Latin America ranges from prehisory to the present. With illustrations, maps and a chronology. (SAM33, $29.95)
Liberators, Latin America's Struggle for Independence 1810-1830  •  Robert Harvey HISTORY •  2002 •  PAPER  • 561 PAGES An epic history of colonial Latin America, focused on the heroism and derring-do of seven legendary men in the fight for independence from Spain, including the larger-than-life figures of Venezuela's Simon Bolivar, Argentine hero General Jose de San Martin, and Chile's Bernardo O'Higgins. Harvey, a contributor to the Economist, draws on an impressive range of original sources in constructing this engaging tale. (SAM35, $18.95)
Life in the Treetops, Adventures of a Woman in Field Biology  •  Margaret Lowman BIOGRAPHY/MEMOIR •  2000 •  PAPER  • 219 PAGES The sprightly memoir of a biologist who, with her feet planted firmly on the ground, took to the trees in 1979. A pioneer in the ecology of forest tree canopies, Meg Lowman climbs, studies and sleeps in trees for a living. She's also a popular lecturer on trips to the Amazon and Director of Research and Conservation at Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota. She's remarkably frank in this engaging memoir about balancing her multiple roles as as scientist, woman, wife and mom. (AMZ57, $13.95)
Lima Map  •  Lima 2000 2006 •  MAP A full color map of Lima with index at a scale 1:37,500 (PRU29, $14.95)
Lonely Planet Ecuador & Galapagos Islands  •  Rob Rachowiecki GUIDEBOOK •  2006 •  PAPER  • 416 PAGES If you're an independent traveler, there's no better guidebook for Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. It's packed with maps, short essays on diverse topics and basic information for the traveler. A separate section at the end provides an overview of the natural history of Galapagos. Rachowiecki, who has lived and worked in Ecuador, is an excellent guide. (GPS04, $23.99)
Lonely Planet Peru  •  Sara Benson GUIDEBOOK •  2007 •  PAPER  • 564 PAGES In its hallmark style, this comprehensive guide to Peru features a good overview of culture, history and nature, and much nuts-and-bolts information on excursions, accomodations and sightseeing. (PRU13, $22.99)
Machu Picchu  •  Barry Brukoff  •  Pablo Neruda  •  Stephen Kessler CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  2001 •  HARD COVER  • 128 PAGES A handsomely produced celebration of the famed Inca site featuring photography by Barry Brukoff accompanied by a new English translation of Neruda's epic poem, with facing Spanish. With 12 color, 4 bronzetone and 46 duotone photographs which communicate the mystery and intrigue of the site nestled in the cloud forest. (PRU43, $40.00)
The Madness of Things Peruvian, Democracy Under Seige  •  Alvaro Vargas Llosa HISTORY •  1994 •  HARD COVER  • 173 PAGES An analysis of Peruvian democracy and its failure by a journalist working on behalf of Margio Vargas Llosa's presidential campaign. (PRU26, $39.95)
Mammals of the Neotropics, The Central Neotropics: Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Vol. 3  •  John F. Eisenberg  •  Kent H. Redford REFERENCE •  1999 •  PAPER  • 610 PAGES A comprehensive survey of mammals of Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil -- covering, in detail 650 species occurring in the region from Pacific coast to the Amazon. With introductory chapters on biogeography and habitat and authoritative information on each species, including natural history, description, range and habitat. The text is much enhanced by large scale range maps and superb color plates by Fiona Reid. Aimed at the professional, this sourcebook will also appeal to anyone with a serious interest in the mammals of the region. This completes a three-volume survey of the mammals of Central and South America. (SAM30, $55.00)
Marine Life of the Galapagos  •  Pierre Constant FIELD GUIDE •  2006 •  PAPER  • 307 PAGES Subtitled "A Diver's Guide to the Fishes, Whales, Dolphins and Other Marine Animals," this compact Odyssey Guide features 288 color photographs of fish and invertebrates, maps, plans and dive information. Most of the book is devoted to color plates (grouped in sections) and one-paragraph, shorthand descriptions with identification information, behavior and range. (GPS56, $24.95)
Master and Commander, The Far Side of the World  •  Peter Weir LITERATURE •  2003 •  DVD Peter Weir's exciting adaptation of two of Patrick O'Brian's popular novels, "Master and Commander" and "The Far Side of the World," starring Russell Crowe and Paul Bettany. Crowe is Captain Jack Aubrey, whose British ship, the HMS Surprise, is battling a mysterious French ship off the coast of Cape Horn during the Napoleonic Wars of 1805. An extended sequenced filmed on the Galapagos marks one of the first times the islands have been depicted in a feature film. (GPS66, $39.98)
Minutes to Burn  •  Gregg Andrew Hurwitz LITERATURE •  2002 •  PAPER  • 414 PAGES A science fiction thriller, creditably set in some place like the Galapagos Islands in the year 2007. The team is stranded on Sangre de Dios (a new island west of Fernandina) in the midst of environmental disaster. Peppered with real geography and other details of Galapagos nature and history, Jack Nelson, who owns the Hotel Galapagos, gets a credit (along with several former Navy SEALS). Lonesome George even makes an appearance. (GPS55, $7.50)
The Monkey's Paw, New Chronicles from Peru  •  Robin Kirk CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  1997 •  PAPER  • 215 PAGES A fascinating, multi-faceted portrait of the nation as shown through the travels and interviews of journalist Robin Kirk in Peru of the 1980s and 1990s. She focuses on the impact of the Shining Path guerilla movement on the country, and how the aftershocks are still felt. Kirk is also co-editor of the excellent "Peru Reader." (PRU24, $22.95)
Mountain of the Condor, Metaphor and Ritual in an Andean Ayllu  •  Joseph W. Bastien CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  1985 •  PAPER  • 227 PAGES An account of the rituals practiced by a small community inhabiting Kaata, a sacred mountain in midwestern Bolivia. Bastien describes the significance of the mountain to the culture, and interprets the symbolism behind their thousand-year tradition. (AND28, $16.50)
A Naturalist's Guide to the Tropics  •  Marco Lambertini  •  John Venerella NATURAL HISTORY •  2000 •  PAPER  • 338 PAGES A compact guide to the world's tropical zone, organized by biome. It's a good overview of the ecology of forests, mangroves, coral reefs, deserts, and grasslands found between the Tropic of Capricorn and the Tropic of Cancer. A useful companion for travelers to tropical latitudes. With color photographs and color plates illustrating a sampling of the most conspicuous birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, and fish. (CON17, $25.00)
A Neotropical Companion  •  J.C. Kricher  •  Mark Plotkin NATURAL HISTORY •  1999 •  PAPER  • 536 PAGES A tropical primer aimed at the motivated general reader. It's a systematic overview of the ecology, habitats, animals, plants and ecosystems of Central and South America. For those not put off by Latin names and concepts like Batesian mimicry, this handbook is a great introduction to the region. (GPS11, $29.95)
Neotropical Rainforest Mammals, A Field Guide  •  L.H. Emmons FIELD GUIDE •  1997 •  PAPER  • 298 PAGES An illustrated guide to the mammals of the New World tropics, compact enough to slip into your daypack, with 29 color plates illustrating more than 200 species. It covers most Central and South American mammals. Even the author concedes that it's difficult to see many of the more elusive rain forest mammals but keep a close watch for the sloths -- they're marvelous, and not likely to escape in a hurry. (GPS12, $32.50)
Nova, Secrets of Lost Empires: Inca  •  Nova CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  1997 •  NTSC VIDEO A 60-minute documentary on the Incas, which features footage of modern Andean villagers building a traditional suspension bridge out of grass. (PRU32, $19.95)
Odyssey Guide Galapagos Islands  •  Pierre Constant GUIDEBOOK •  2006 •  PAPER  • 315 PAGES Subtitled "A Natural History Guide," this compact book is an illustrated overview of the islands -- and especially the wildlife -- with 70 sketch maps, 180 color photographs and island-by-island descriptions. (GPS20, $24.95)
On the Origin of Species  •  Charles Darwin  •  Mayr Ernst NATURAL HISTORY •  1975 •  PAPER  • 528 PAGES Here it is: a facsimile of the original, best-selling 1859 edition of "On the Origin of Species"-- the book that Darwin sweated over for decades and that changed our view of the world. Even to the modern mind it is an outstanding introduction to the subject. It's one of the great works of science -- and surprisingly readable. Darwin tinkered with later editions, mostly in response to his critics, but you may as well read the original. With an introduction by Ernst Mayr. (NAT19, $19.50)
Open Veins of Latin America: Five Centuries of the Pillage of a Continent  •  Eduardo Galeano  •  Cedric Belfrage HISTORY •  1998 •  PAPER  • 317 PAGES The 25th anniversary edition of the landmark history of plunder and exploitation in Latin America. This wrenchingly beautiful book takes for one of its central metaphors the booms and busts of the Potosí mines in the Bolivian highlands. Using local slave labor, the 16th century Spaniards took billions of dollars worth of silver from a single hillside there. The British and Americans returned to the site centuries later to mine tin for their war machine. The book also takes on the banana republics of Central America, the Amazonian rubber plantations and the numerous American invasions throughout the region. (AND26, $18.00)
The Panama Hat Trail  •  Tom Miller TRAVEL NARRATIVE •  2001 •  PAPER  • 288 PAGES • FAVORITE Miller's entertaining and insightful social history of Ecuador -- as told through its hat-making history. It's a classic example of travel writing, and one of the best things written on Ecuador. Originally published in 1986, much of the book is set in Cuenca and along the Pacific coast of Ecuador. (EDR15, $14.00)
Pass the Butterworms, Remote Journeys Oddly Rendered  •  Tim Cahill TRAVEL NARRATIVE •  1998 •  PAPER A collection of entertaining travel essays, many originally appearing in Outside Magazine. It includes Cahill's acerbic commentary on his adventures from the North Pole to Irian Jaya, Mongolia and Peru. (WLD01, $13.00)
People of the Andes  •  James B. Richardson III CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  1994 •  HARD COVER  • 176 PAGES • COMING IN A comprehensive, up-to-date and illustrated introduction to the culture and archaeology of the Andes by a widely recognized expert. Richardson brings clarity to a complex subject, focusing on the role played by geography and climate in shaping cultural development. This excellent book places the extraordinary empire of the Incas (greater than that of Rome) in its historical and cultural context. (AND01, $24.95)
Personal Narrative of a Journey to the Equinoctial Regions of the New Continent  •  Alexander von Humboldt EXPLORATION •  1996 •  PAPER  • 310 PAGES This is the book that Darwin took on his voyage around the world -- a classic account of naturalist and explorer Humboldt's 18th-century discoveries in South America. (SAM08, $17.00)
Peru in Focus, A Guide to the People, Politics and Culture  •  Jane Holligan de Diaz-Limaco GUIDEBOOK •  2000 •  PAPER  • 95 PAGES Authoritative and up-to-date, this slim guide focuses on the history of Peru, its cultural heritage and current political, environmental and economic challenges. With maps, photographs and some travel information. It's an excellent synopsis from a left-leaning perspective, strong on facts. (PRU11, $12.95)
Peru Map  •  Borch Maps 2007 •  MAP A detailed laminated relief map of Peru at a scale of 1:1,750,000. This is a very clear, colorful map, which also features detailed insets of Lima and Cusco, and even a site plan of Maccu Picchu. Peru itself is broken into three sections: North, Central, South. (PRU02, $10.95)
Peru Map  •  Lima 2000 MAP A well produced, colorful shaded relief map of Peru at a scale of 1:2,200,000. Imported from Peru. (PRU09, $10.95)
The Peru Reader, History, Culture, Politics  •  Orin Starn HISTORY •  2005 •  PAPER  • 524 PAGES A lively, literate anthology on the history and culture of Peru that ranges from historical accounts to modern analysis. It's a comprehensive introduction to the country. The excellent selections were made by a panel of Peruvian and foreign experts. (PRU04, $25.95)
Piazza Tales  •  Herman Melville LITERATURE •  1996 •  PAPER  • 275 PAGES Melville's experiences as a whaler informed not only his great novel, Moby Dick, but "The Encantadas," one of the outstanding tales found in this collection. These short stories on the Galapagos Islands capture the volcanic nature of this bewitched paradise. (GPS36, $18.00)
Pimsleur Quick & Simple Spanish  •  Pimsleur Language Method LANGUAGE & PHRASEBOOKS •  2005 •  AUDIO CD Four audio CDs with eight 30-minute lessons in basic Spanish, covering elementary vocabulary and phrases used in travel and everyday situations. The Pimsleur method emphasizes the use of listening skills without reading materials (so there isn't a book to follow along). It's advertised as "Totally audio: hear it, learn it, speak it." (SPN257, $19.95)
Quito Map  •  ITMB 2000 •  MAP A full color map of Quito and surroundings for the traveler, at a scale of 1:12,500. (EDR10, $8.95)
Rough Guide Ecuador  •  Harry Ades  •  Melissa Graham GUIDEBOOK •  2007 •  PAPER  • 583 PAGES A compact comprehensive guide to travel in Ecuador, including Quito, the Oriente and Galapagos with extensive listings, dozens of sketch maps, and a brief overview of culture, nature and history. Second edition. (EDR06, $21.99)
Running the Amazon  •  Joe Kane EXPLORATION •  1990 •  PAPER  • 278 PAGES A best-selling account of a 4,000-mile Amazon expedition from high in the Peruvian Andes to the Atlantic by foot, raft and kayak. It's a tale of high adventure, corrupt border guards, itinerant drug smugglers -- and the camaraderie that develops from a difficult job well done. Only four of the original ten participants finished the journey. Much of the story takes place in the little-explored narrow canyons and rapids high above Iquitos in Peru in the headwaters of the Amazon. (AMZ13, $14.00)
Seals and Sea Lions of the World  •  Nigel Bonner FIELD GUIDE •  2004 •  HARD COVER  • 224 PAGES An accessible, comprehensive overview of the pinnipeds. With wit and grace, Bonner outlines the evolutionary history, biology and ecology and behavior of seals, sea lions and walruses. Five chapters are devoted to a species-by-species account, superbly illustrated. The last chapters tackle the complex and sometimes controversial issues of the relationship of seals and humans. (FG05, $35.00)
Seven Myths of the Spanish Conquest  •  Matthew Restall HISTORY •  2004 •  PAPER  • 272 PAGES In this provocative book, Restall tackles Columbus, Cortes, Pizarro and the misconceptions surrounding them. The conquisadores most certainly did not conquer the Americas with a handful of men, nor were they received as gods. (SAM52, $19.99)
Ship in the Wilderness, Voyages of the M.S. Explorer through the Last Wild Places on Earth  •  Jim Snyder  •  Keith Shackleton EXPLORATION •  2002 •  HARD COVER  • 216 PAGES • HARD TO FIND ELSEWHERE • COMING IN A tribute to the M.S. Explorer, the first tour vessel purpose-built for expedition travel. The handsome book features Keith Shackleton's watercolor illustrations and 150 color photographs by Jim Snyder. It covers pioneering expeditions throughout the world from the Galapagos to Antarctica, the Arctic, and South Seas. (EXP23, $35.00)
Smithsonian Handbook: Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises  •  Mark Carwardine FIELD GUIDE •  2002 •  PAPER  • 256 PAGES In the trademark, graphic Eyewitness style, this sturdy guidebook colorfully describes the world's cetaceans with numerous illustrations, range maps, fluke drawings and a few paragraphs on each species. (FG02, $20.00)
Snakes, The Evolution of Mystery in Nature  •  Harry W. Greene NATURAL HISTORY •  1997 •  HARD COVER  • 288 PAGES Published to wildly enthusiastic reviews in 1997, this illustrated volume documents the ecology and diversity of snakes worldwide. Anecdotal, informative and entertaining, snakes couldn't have asked for a better advocate than herpetologist Harry Greene -- and the photographs are stunning. (BST33, $60.00)
Spanish, Start Speaking Today! (Cassette Tapes)  •  Educational Services Corporation LANGUAGE & PHRASEBOOKS •  CASETTE TAPE A 90-minute crash course in Spanish featured in two audio tapes and a phrasebook packaged in a vinyl sleeve. Geared for travelers, the course follows the foreign service method -- which focuses on dialogues and useful sentences instead of individual words. In each case, an English phrase is spoken once, and repeated in Spanish twice. Topics include introductions, transportation, business and health. A version with compact discs is also available (SPN219). (SPN140, $21.95)
The Spears of Twilight: Life and Death in the Amazon Jungle  •  Phillipe Descola CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  1996 •  PAPER  • 458 PAGES Three years among the Jivaro (Achaur) of the Upper Amazon. A student of Claude Levi-Strauss, Descola proves himself to be an intelligent observer and born storyteller in this ethnographic account. (AMZ25, $24.95)
Stolen Continents, 500 Years of Conquest and Resistance in the Americas  •  Ronald Wright HISTORY •  2004 •  PAPER  • 464 PAGES A powerful history of imperialism and resistance in the Americas, with a focus on the Aztec, Maya, Inca, Cherokee and Iroquois. Wright's illuminating account, told largely from the point of view of the losers, details the rapid collapse of cultures and societies in the Americas following the arrival of the Europeans in 1492. Wright draws on an impressive range of archival material in reconstructing this classic account, originally published in 1993. Wright is also the author of Time Among the Maya. (NAM20, $17.00)
The Tambopata-Candamo Reserved Zone of Southeastern Peru, A Biological Assessment  •  Robin B. Foster NATURAL HISTORY •  1995 •  PAPER  • 192 PAGES The result of a "Rapid Assessment Program" survey by a multidisciplinary team, this book catalogs the biological resources of the Tambopata River, south of Puerto Maldonado in the upper Amazon of Peru. The well studied Explorer's Inn is just downstream of the study area. With maps, line drawings, and detailed animal checklists by region (scientific names only). (PRU17, $19.95)
A Traveler's Guide to the Galapagos Islands  •  Barry Boyce GUIDEBOOK •  2004 •  PAPER  • 293 PAGES A biologist and experienced tour operator in the archipelago, Barry provides a practical introduction to the islands and their attractions. With a succinct, 80-page overview of evolution, natural history and wildlife, and an island-by-island overview of visitor sites. The guide includes excellent information on choosing a tour and practical travel information. With 60 color photos and 3 maps. Fourth edition. (GPS17, $18.99)
Traveling with Che Guevara, The Making of a Revolutionary  •  Alberto Granado  •  Lucia Alvarez de Toledo TRAVEL NARRATIVE •  2004 •  PAPER  • 240 PAGES This is Alberto Granado's companion book to Che Guevara's well-known Motorcycle Diaries (and one of the sources for the movie). It's Granado's own account of travels with Che via motorbike through Argentina, Chile, Peru, Colombia, and Venezuela. (SAM68, $14.95)
Treasure Island  •  Robert Louis Stevenson LITERATURE •  1995 •  PAPER  • 298 PAGES The famous and fabulous adventure story of a boy who finds himself among pirates while searching for buried treasure. Inspired by the Isla de Coco. (PAC25, $8.95)
Trekking in Ecuador  •  Robert & Daisy Kunstaetter GUIDEBOOK •  2002 •  PAPER  • 304 PAGES A compact guide to 30 hikes and treks in 30 treks in Ecuador's northern & southern Highlands, Amazon and Pacific Coast. The authors, mountaineers both, are based in Quito. (EDR18, $18.95)
Tropical Nature  •  Adrian Forsyth  •  Ken Miyata NATURAL HISTORY •  1984 •  PAPER  • 248 PAGES • BEST SELLER • FAVORITE A lively, lucid portrait of the tropics as seen by two uncommonly observant and thoughtful field biologists. Its 17 marvelous essays introduce the habitats, ecology, plants and animals of the Central and South American rainforest. With a lengthy appendix of practical advice for the tropical traveler. (GPS13, $14.00)
Twentieth-Century Latin American Poetry, A Bilingual Anthology  •  Stephen Tapscott LITERATURE •  1996 •  PAPER  • 418 PAGES A scholarly anthology of 400 poems, presented in the original language (Spanish or Portuguese) and English. Selections include poems from Octavio Paz, Pablo Neruda, Jorge Luis Borges, Gabriela Mistral, Julio Cortazar and Carlos Drummond de Andrade. Eighty-five poets are represented in all. With an introduction to the many traditions of 20th-century poety in Latin America, and biographical notes on each poet. (SAM28, $27.95)
The University of Chicago Dictionary, Spanish-English/English-Spanish  •  Carlos Castillo LANGUAGE & PHRASEBOOKS •  2002 •  PAPER  • 603 PAGES Long a favorite with students and travelers, this new edition -- the first in 15 years -- of the University of Chicago dictionary brings vocabulary and usage up to date. With slang, vulgar and otherwise, a concise dictionary of words, phrases, and basic grammar. (SPN118, $11.00)
Vulcan's Fury, Man against the Volcano  •  Alwyn Scarth NATURAL HISTORY •  1999 •  HARD COVER  • 299 PAGES In the contest of "Man against the Volcano," nature always wins. The author draws together eyewitness accounts, science, sociology and folklore in this page-turning account of 15 dramatic volcanic events from Vesuvius to Krakatau, Mt. St. Helens and Pinatubo. (GEO10, $48.00)
Where to Watch Birds in South America  •  Nigel Wheatley NATURAL HISTORY •  1995 •  PAPER  • 431 PAGES A compact practical guide to 206 recommended birdwatching sites throughout South America. Organized by country, each site guide includes an introduction, noteworthy species, maps, and directions, checklists. An invaluable handbook for birders. (SAM40, $24.95)
Wildlife of the Galapagos  •  Julian Fitter  •  Daniel Fitter  •  David Hosking FIELD GUIDE •  2002 •  PAPER  • 254 PAGES A compact guide to Galapagos nature and wildlife, featuring 400 color photographs, as well as an overview of the history, climate, evolution and geology of the islands, and helpful full color visitor site maps. It includes not only birds and well-known reptiles, but also a sampling of the plants, invertebrates and coastal and marine life. (GPS47, $19.95)
The World as You Dream It, Shamanistic Teachings from the Amazon and Andes  •  John M. Perkins RELIGION •  1994 •  PAPER  • 139 PAGES An activist on behalf of indigenous cultures and founder of the "Earth Dream Alliance", the author provides a personal account of his sometimes hard-to-believe experiences with curanderos (or shamans) in the highlands and Amazon of Ecuador. Whatever your thoughts on the concept a vision quest, the book includes an fascinating account of the author's time with the Shuar people, their rituals and religious ideas. (AMZ46, $12.95)
Yanomami, The Fierce Controversy and What We Might Learn from It  •  Robert Borofsky CULTURAL PORTRAIT •  2005 •  PAPER  • 397 PAGES A scholarly reader and study of the controversy surrounding anthropological studies of the Yanomami of northern Brazil and neighboring Venezuela. It follows in the wake of Patrick Tierney's best-selling book, Darkness in El Dorado. With Bruce Albert, Ray Hames, Kim Hill, Lêda Leitão Martins, John Peters, and Terence Turner. (SAM67, $22.95)