As stone and ice shape the Sierra, forces at work in our own lives shape and transition the way we act and think. These forces--influential persons, spiritual or career junctures, or life-altering events--affect our present moments and futures. "Stone and Ice," a collection of poems, describes and examines junctures and events through the eyes and mind of a genuine explorer.

Poet Joseph Whitson's perspective of his surroundings, of people in his life and of specific events derives from a mix of his educational background in the sciences and his interests in backpacking, climbing,...