Looking through this book is a magnificent journey through the beauty of California's magnificent Central Coast. Photographer Douglas Steakley has captured this beauty in an amazing way. I would strongly encourage locals, visitors, and those unable to visit this area to buy this book. This is not an ordinary photo book that you flip through in a few minutes! Although I am fortunate enough to live in this wonderful area I spent quite a bit of time looking at each page absorbing the fantastic photography Mr. Steakley has to offer. The poetry by Ric Masten and foreword by Jane Smiley were also delightful to read and are an important part of this beautiful book.

Over 20 years ago, I visited the Monterey Peninsula: I recall the splendor of land meeting sea, the power of the ocean and the majesty of the hillside. The images of the region remained dormant in my mind until revived by "Pacific Light." "Pacific Light" is a photography book that does not allow closure; it whispers and radiates to our senses to be viewed again and again. Essentially, it is not another table book: It demands one's focus and attention like an exceptional masterpiece. One is inspired by the pictures and poetry of the Monterey Peninsula, an area that explodes with natural beauty and color on every page. Laser sharp, technically and artistically captivating images charm the eye then the brain. Every photo tells a story about the land, its people, the light, the poet and the photographer. I delighted in the lush green landscapes with shades of emerald rivaling Ireland, rolling hills with a dusting of snow reminiscent of Eastern Washington and the ethereal splendor of Pfeiffer Beach that fittingly covers the dust jacket. Mr. Steakley shows us the unparalleled beauty of China Cove beach, brilliant in a warm Caribbean like light, the majesty of Garrapata Beach at sunset, and the breathtaking vista of a waterfall at McWay Creek. The photographs validate a dedicated and talented photographer who comprehends the area and is aware of its moods, artistry and verse. I applaud the photography of Doug Steakley and the poetry of Ric Masten whose synergy is palpable in this well designed book. I recommend this book to anyone who has visited the area or who savors a magnificent hardback of landscape photography and poetry.

Over 20 years ago, I visited the Monterey Peninsula: I recall the splendor of land meeting sea, the power of the ocean and the majesty of the hillside. The images of the region remained dormant in my mind until revived by "Pacific Light." "Pacific Light" is a photography book that does not allow closure; it whispers and radiates to our senses to be viewed again and again. Essentially, it is not another table book: It demands one's focus and attention like an exceptional masterpiece. One is inspired by the pictures and poetry of the Monterey Peninsula, an area that explodes with natural beauty and color on every page. Laser sharp, technically and artistically captivating images charm the eye then the brain. Every photo tells a story about the land, its people, the light, the poet and the photographer. I delighted in the lush green landscapes with shades of emerald rivaling Ireland, rolling hills with a dusting of snow reminiscent of Eastern Washington and the ethereal splendor of Pfeiffer Beach that fittingly covers the dust jacket. Mr. Steakley shows us the unparalleled beauty of China Cove beach, brilliant in a warm Caribbean like light, the majesty of Garrapata Beach at sunset, and the breathtaking vista of a waterfall at McWay Creek. The photographs validate a dedicated and talented photographer who comprehends the area and is aware of its moods, artistry and verse. I applaud the photography of Doug Steakley and the poetry of Ric Masten whose synergy is palpable in this well designed book. I recommend this book to anyone who has visited the area or who savors a magnificent hardback of landscape photography and poetry.