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There has always been a complicated relationship between wilderness in the national parks and the National Park Service. To better understand it, try reading John C. Miles' Wilderness.

Miles, a professor of environmental studies at Western Washington University, examines the overlapping and sometimes contradictory responsibilities of the park service and the national wilderness preservation system. And he explores how changing conceptions of wilderness  has affected park management over the years, with a focus on the tension created while trying to provide recreational areas while still preserving the lands.

This is a great read and makes for the perfect gift for your park enthusiast this holiday season. And be sure to check out the best national park and travel books of 2009.