Fascinating. This book-on-tape takes you through Matthiessen's quest for detail, while researching the life of Crazy Horse, the elusive snow leopard, and the subject matter for "At Play in the Fields of Our Lord". Yet, he still manages to speak on a spiritual plane about how his practice of Zen meditation serves his work as a writer and researcher.

It's a live presentation, too, so you get the benefit of a lively and engaged audience laughing at all the one-offs and self-deprecating comments.

Not sure if it is available as a CD, and I know it's not in print. But well worth seeking out for those who want to tap into a writer's mind. ( )