Wild L.A.

Los Angeles--the ultimate icon of urban sprawl--is the last place on earth you'll find miles of open land and a wide range of wild creatures. Or is it? In reality there are incredible natural treasures to be found in wild preserves, parks, and wilderness areas within a mere 90-minute drive from downtown L.A. Author James Lawrence's intimate knowledge and love of the city where he grew up, together with his profound respect for the natural world, inform his lyrical text. As a perfect complement, a gallery of 133 full-color images by some of the West's leading nature photographers depicts everything from glorious panoramas to intimate close-ups.