Sketches in Duneland

In the wind‑blown dunes that fringe the western shore of Lake Michigan, a quiet world unfolds—drift‑wood shanties clinging to the sand, marshes that mirror the sky, and a tapestry of wildflowers that bloom in hidden crevices. The author, a longtime wanderer of this coast, offers a series of vivid sketches that capture both the rugged landscape and the simple lives of its solitary residents. From the weather‑worn faces of fishermen to the whispered legends of vanished tribes, the opening pages set a tone of reverence for a place that feels both timeless and fragile.

The collection moves beyond description to a gentle plea for preservation, noting the dunes’ importance to botanists, birdwatchers, and anyone who seeks respite from urban clamor. Detailed observations of migratory birds, the delicate balance of dune flora, and the quiet rituals of characters like “Old Sipes” and “Happy Cal” illustrate a community intertwined with nature. Readers are invited to stroll through shaded groves, listen to herons at dusk, and appreciate a landscape whose beauty remains at risk yet endures in the author’s careful, affectionate portrayals.