The Aleutian Islands: Alaska Geographic (22)

The Aleutian Islands: Alaska Geographic (22) by Rennick, Penny. paperback edition. ISBN: 9781566610261.

Composed of eight named island groups, the Krenitzen, Fox, Islands of Four Mountains, Andreanof, Delarof, Rat, Semichi, and Near Islands, and stretching more than 1,100 miles, the Aleutian Islands are one of the most remote segments of the United States. This 112-page book tells the complete story of the chain, from prehistoric times through the present, with a look at what is in store for the future. The Aleutian Islands are home to a flourishing 250 species of birds, including the once near-extinct Aleutian Canada goose; caribou, cattle, sheep and foxes; and an abundance of marine life. The Aleutians boast 57 volcanoes, 27 of them active; black sand beaches; and an almost endless variety of wildflowers, including rhododendrons and orchids. About 5,000 people live in the Aleutians year-round, with another few hundred occupying military bases in the western islands. Unalaska/Dutch Harbor is the largest town with 4,300 residents. The remaining year-round population is spread among the communities of False Pass, Akutan, Nikolski and Atka. Included in the book are stories of two local legends, Robert "Sea Otter" Jones, and Borge Larson, plus articles on traditional Aleut life; the 1741 arrival of Russian explorers; wildlife, present and extinct; the early American years in the chain; economic conditions; commercial fishing and the regions push towards tourism. Another absorbing section is dedicated to the famous World War II Aleutian campaign, the bombing of Dutch Harbor and the story of the Aleut evacuation to Southeast Alaska. The Aleutian Islands, from past to present, is a vibrant, powerful book about the region that takes in both the western- and easternmost points in the United States. Included with The Aleutian Islands is a colorful, 20 x 32-inch fold-out map.