“That’s what Horace Kephart and George Masa did...Two men, they met in the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina, - each had moved there to start a new life.”

- Barack Obama

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Photo by Camilla Calnan

Janet McCue is a writer, researcher, avid hiker, and award-winning author.

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Praise for George Masa: A Life Reimagined

  • "...a remarkable achievement in biographical research..."

    - Ken Burns and Duncan Dayton, The National Parks: America’s Best Idea

  • “…a painstakingly meticulous study of a captivating subject and of the time in American history…”

    - Kirkus Reviews

  • “... a touchstone for understanding the deep complexities of race, culture, society, and landscape in America...”

    - Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle, author of Even as We Breathe

  • “...a timely salute to [Masa's] timeless achievement.”

    - Robert Morgan, author of Boone: A Biography

  • "...this book uncovers the complex life of a Japanese man who…dedicated his life to capturing the beauty of the Great Smokies and the Appalachian Trail."

    - Kazuhiro Oharezeki, associate professor, Seinan Gakuin University

  • "Masa moved easily in the circle of millionaires…but he also knew intimately another world of racism, prejudice..."

    - Mae Miller Claxton, professor of English, Western Carolina University, and co-editor of Horace Kephart: Writings

  • "…a fascinating read and a priceless contribution to the history of the Smokies."

    - Philip D’anieri, author of The Appalachian Trail: A Biography

  • "It reminds us…of the value of immigrants in bringing fresh vision, skills, and experiences to our familiar American landscape."

    - Daniel McKee, professor of Asian Studies at Cornell University

  • "…a story of adventure and misadventure, triumph, and tragedy, on an intensely personal level."

    - Judy Russell, genealogist and photographer

  • "It’s a classic tale of an immigrant to America…but with surprising complexities. … It is a story that will hold you until the end."

    - Rose Houk, author of Pictures for a Park: How Photographers Helped Save the Great Smoky Mountains

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