Fire, Chaparral, and Survival in Southern California

by Richard Halsey, 2008. Paperback, 232 pages. This is the best book available that describes in detail California’s most extensive plant community (the chaparral) as well as how to live safely in one of the most fire prone ecosystems on the planet. The book not only provides the basics of chaparral natural history, but also how wildfires are fought, how to protect your home and family from wild land fire, and why it is important to reconnect with one’s surroundings. The revised and updated second printing of this book includes a new chapter on the importance of understanding the relationship between fire, people, and nature. Also included is an updated color photo identification section with 64 of the most common southern California chaparral plants and animals. About the Author Richard Halsey is a noted teacher, writer, and photographer who has been researching California chaparral for over two decades, and is the founder and director of the California Chaparral Institute. A popular