Mitch Powers

Hello and thank you for taking a moment to read my author's biography. You'll find I've written a variety of books: non-fiction, historical fiction and fiction (also see: Mitchpowersbooks).

There are three instructional books on Stand Up paddling and kayaking. My expertise in these areas comes from working for a Stand Up and kayak paddling center for over 28 years. Other non-fiction works are the Sausalito History & Guide and the Alameda History & Guide. These books are for residents and visitors of these respective towns who want to learn the history and stories associated with these unique places. Both books also offer specific tours along with maps. All of the above mentioned books are loaded with photos.

On the other end of the spectrum is The Giants' Last Tear. This book is historical narrative fiction. It focuses on the repercussions of a junk bond backed takeover of a family run logging business in Northern California. This dramatic story centers on the fight to save the ancient redwood forests, and is loaded with historical context, interesting characters and suspense. During the research phase I lived in a town called King Salmon, in Humboldt County where the story takes place. From this base I conducted all my research: going to massive protests, interviewing loggers, lawyers, forestry personnel, Native Americans, activists, and exploring the magnificent California redwood landscape.

Similarly my field research for Big Mountain occurred where the story takes place on the Navajo reservation. Living there gave me a keen insight into the Navajo and Hopi cultures, the historical and contemporary issues, as well as the ability to interview people, many of whom become fictionalized characters in my book.

On the Road to Shambala, an autobiographical novel is based on an intense personal experience I had while spending time at Zipolite Beach, Mexico. And here I learned that sometimes paradise isn't what it appears to be.

I've also written several fables and a fairy tale for adults and children. Adults will relate to the added sophistication in terms of character development, humor and underlying themes. But I've maintained the whimsical nature of many of the classic fairy/fantasy tales so kids will be able to enjoy. 

Other than working on book projects, of course I love the outdoor lifestyle which is so easy to do here in California. This is a far cry from my childhood roots in New York City. From the City I went to secondary school in Connecticut and then made my way out to California for college. After discovering the west coast and its awesome beauty I couldn't leave. I'm fortunate to live in an inspiring environment that feeds my passions.