Kartchner Caverns: How Two Cavers Discovered and Saved One of the Wonders of the Natural World

by Neil Miller and Neil Miller

Book Overview

It was all routine even if hundreds of pounds of earth were pressing down on their heads, even though the ceiling might potentially collapse at any moment, even if they were surrounded by a sea of darkness and had no idea what lay in front of them. Award-winning author Neil Miller soon tells us that what lay in front of amateur spelunkers Randy Tufts and Gary Tenen was anything but routine. These young men had crawled into a virgin cave, a landscape...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0816525161
• ISBN13: 9780816525164
• Release Date: April 2008
• Publisher: University of Arizona Press
• Length: 224 Pages
• Weight: 1.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 7.0" x 9.9"

Customer Reviews

Very helpful; exciting story

This is the personal story of the discovery, exploration, and development of Kartchner Caverns in Arizona. It's worthwhile if you are planning a trip to Kartchner, or if you have a general interest in conservation or caves. The discoverers, Tufts and Tenen, come off as "Alex P. Keaton's parents" type of people -- over-the-top sitcom stereotype. It's hard to believe they're real. But despite their... well, oddness... they come across as dedicated and sincere and determined people. Wonderful photographs emphasize the amazing discoveries.

What a secret!

This is the amazing story of two young cavers who found a pristine cave and, with the help of enlightened landowners, kept it a secret for 14 years until it could be purchased by the state of Arizona. Kartchner Caverns is a wonderful resource, an educational tool and a great example of cooperation by diverse interests who shared a common goal: the protection of the cave. Miller details the process and the personalities. Thanks to his research and writing skill, we can feel the discoverers' excitement, frustration and, finally, satisfaction.