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Powder Burn by Daniel Glick recounts the story of an arson at the Vail Ski Resort of Colorado and its impact, fallout, and effects on the community. The arson occurred in 1998 on the eve of a disputed expansion into terrain possibly containing a nearly endangered species of lynx. Glick writes in a “whodunit” style but the title takes off as the story sidetracks into unexpected directions. Vail Associates pissed off the entire community of residents dependent on the mountain for their livelihoods. Meanwhile, the culture of multi-millionaire second and third home jet setters sparks interesting research into the causes, effects, and ramifications of an über rich upper class culture taking over a working class ski bum town.

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John Fry’s numerous years in the ski industry (specifically publications and magazines) has provided a wealth of knowledge about the sport and recreational activity of skiing. What was to become The Story of Modern Skiing was originally pitched to publishers by Fry as a memoir of his experiences in the ski industry. University Press of New England had a different idea and directed Fry to draw on his vast experiences to write a comprehensive history of modern skiing from the North American perspective.

The book is well arranged and somewhat linear despite the historical range of some topics which suggests editorial genius to keep the narrative linear. A brief introduction on how skiing made its way to North America begins the book; however, most of the history details skiing from the beginning of lift serviced skiing via rope tows onward. All aspects of the sport are detailed from equipment, technique, and teaching through competition, resort development, alternative and so called extreme pursuits, and the industry and business of the sport. The major personalities to effect the sport are sprinkled throughout the book where appropriate with colorful commentary.

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