Joe Mills
A Mountain Boyhood
"A Mountain Boyhood" by Joe Mills is a memoir chronicling the author's experiences growing up in the American West, specifically during the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around his journey to the Rocky Mountains, where he seeks adventure and a deep connection with the wilderness, inspired by the stories of his parents and pioneers. The book emphasizes themes of exploration, nature, and the spirit of adventure as it captures the essence of boyhood and the yearning for independence amidst the wild landscape. At the start of the memoir, the author reflects on his parents' pioneering days in Kansas, revealing their migration to the West during the gold rush and how those stories instilled a desire for adventure in him. As a boy, he fantasized about living in the Rocky Mountains, eventually taking a train to pursue that dream. The narrative showcases his initial journey filled with excitement and challenges, including his encounters with wildlife, the beauty of the landscape, and the reality of life in the wilderness, all while fostering an understanding of the wild and the various animals he encounters.