David B. Williams writes about science and history. His many books include Homewaters: A Human and Natural History of Puget Sound; Too High and Too Steep: Reshaping Seattle's Topography; Stories in Stone: Travels through Urban Geology; and, with Elizabeth A. Nesbitt, Spirit Whales and Sloth Tales: Fossils of Washington State. Williams writes a free weekly newsletter, The Street Smart Naturalist.

"It's easy for Seattleites to forget, in our landscape of looming cranes and instant skyscrapers, that our town has a history . . . David B. Williams' mission is to help you find that history. It's still there, in the nooks and crannies and corners of the city (though you might have to look up to find it)."

-- "Seattle Times"

"Williams's passion for the city is readily apparent throughout his excellent Seattle Walks."

-- "Pacific Northwest Quarterly"

"What's wrong with feeling like a tourist in your own city every now and then? Seattle Walks is all about that feeling, of seeing familiar streets through new eyes. All it takes is a good guide, a slowing-down of your pace, and a willingness to stop and look up every once in a while."

-- "Seattle Weekly"

"When people take just a few steps into David B. Williams' Seattle, they're amazed at the history hiding in plain sight . . . This naturalist and former national park ranger, with a background in geology, delights in showing people cool stuff they might otherwise miss in his hometown."

-- "Journey"

"Geology nerds, history buffs and odd-fact lovers alike will find a walk (or many) that speaks to their area of interest. Williams references original maps and historical documents frequently to detail his many discoveries across the city. Whether you've lived in Seattle your entire life or are just an occasional visitor, you'll learn something new from these walks . . . [A] must-read."

-- "Washington Trails Association Magazine"

Publisher: University of Washington Press

Pub date: 2025-02-11

Length: 304 pages