Books published by publisher Soundboard Books

The highest mountain in the Cascades, Mount Rainier is surrounded by dense forests that reach to over 7,000 feet in elevation. Home to 15 coniferous and half as many broadleaf tree species, these forests vary in age from nearly a thousand years to less than a hundred. This is a book about the ecology of those trees and their forests.In an engaging style, the book deals with subjects that range from physical processes, such as avalanche and fire, to biological factors. While written in a non-technical style, the text is sufficiently detailed for the layperson and professional alike.Nearly 200 black-and-white photographs demonstrate the concepts and ideas discussed, as well as showing off the trees themselves. One appendix presents descriptions and photos of the individual tree species and a second provides specific road guides to the forests along two major Park highways – Paradise and Sunrise.Although the text is based upon the author’s experience and observations at Mount Rainier, the book is applicable to Northwest forests in general. It will appeal to those with an interest in natural history as well as in that great volcano that is known as “The Mountain.”Born in Seattle, by training a mathematician and programmer, and now retired from a career with Boeing, the author's passion for Mount Rainier took root when she returned to the Northwest in the 1970s. She has summited the Mountain and hiked most of its trails, studying the trees and forest ecology, and publishing this book, The Trees of Mount Rainier.Susan's love of trees, gardens, and photography led to another book, Trees Live Here: the Arboretums of America. With her husband, she researched and wrote the definitive book on the flora of Mount Adams, Washington's second tallest volcano, as well as a Mount Adams wildflower book. In 2014, Susan began a project to photograph every plant species native to Mount Rainier National Park. Her photographs are available on the Wildflowersearch app for iPhone/iPad and Android and on the website, rainierinbloom.com.

Dispelling the notion of Bach as boring and stuffy, this biography brings the dynamic "Father of Music" to life. Young readers will enjoy becoming acquainted with the REAL Bach, born into a big musical family and into musical Europe. Carefully researched and complete with glossary, map and historical perspective, INTRODUCING JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH is like a personal chat with the composer himself.

The composer who changed piano music forever is seen from a personal perspective. Chopin tells his life's story, from his childhood in Poland to his intellectual circle of musicians, authors and artists in Paris. Historical notes tell readers about other events of the world at that time; the glossary explains unfamiliar words; and a simple map shows the cities Chopin lived in and visited.