Idaho Commission for Libraries

"Western Experience" examines life in the West from various viewpoints, looks at myths and stereotypes of the West, and explores how various groups have adapted to unique physical and cultural environments in the West.

Books for this series include:

Food is one of human beings’ favorite obsessions. Most people spend a great deal of time physically and mentally preoccupied with food: we organize and prepare meals, we daydream about what’s for lunch or dinner; we eat. Beyond simply an enjoyable, necessary human pastime, though, eating has important implications for how we think of ourselves, and how we relate to the larger culture.

The contemporary western writers featured in this theme have a variety of perspectives on rural life in the modern West. Ranging in location across the northern rural West from Washington, to various regions of Idaho (the largest cluster), to Montana, their books present a realistic portrait of the West, admitting to difficulties and divisions and misery, both personal and familial.

Barely a generation ago, it was not uncommon for a grandparent to pass away in her 60s, but now life expectancy puts that age in the mid-80s. It is perhaps a mixed blessing, for though medical science and diet and technology can provide the resources for a longer life, not all aspects of being older are pleasant.