The wrap
Barry Lopez, author of ‘Arctic Dreams’ and winner of the National Book Award, dies at 75
Acclaimed nature author Barry Lopez, who won the National Book Award in 1986 for “Arctic Dreams”, died on Christmas Day after a years-long battle with prostate cancer, his wife confirmed to NPR. He was 75 years old. For over 40 years, Lopez has been a prolific writer of fiction and non-fiction books. His 1978 book, “Of Wolves and Men”, which examined the long and complicated relationship between wolves and humanity, was an advance in Lopez’s career, becoming a finalist for the National Book Award. He won the nonfiction award eight years later with his signature book, “Arctic Dreams”, which examined the harsh climate in the Far North and its defining characteristics, from frozen seas to northern lights. The award was well deserved, with Lopez investing five years in travel and research in the Arctic. “His books are milestones that define a region, a time, a cause,” Oregon friend and former poet Laureate Kim Stafford told The Oregonian. “It also exemplifies a life of devotion to the craft and learning, to be humble in the face of wisdom of all kinds.” Born in Port Chester, New York in 1945, Lopez grew up in southern California before attending the University of Notre Dame, where he earned an undergraduate and graduate degree in the mid-1960s. Lopez lived for a long time in Oregon at the time of his death . Also read: Kevin Greene, defensive Lineman of the NFL Hall of Fame, dies at 58Lopez specializing in environmental and nature themes, but was also capable of telling deeply personal and moving stories; in his 2013 essay, Sliver of Sky, Lopez revealed that he was sexually abused from seven to 11 years old by a family friend. Lopez later told NPR that the experience made him afraid and ashamed around other people – something that contrasted sharply with the connection he felt with animals in the California desert. “They didn’t say,” Oh, we know what you’ve been through, “Lopez said. “I felt accepted by the animal world.” Lopez, according to the Oregonian, leaves his wife and four daughters; Amanda Woodruff, Stephanie Woodruff, Mary Woodruff and Mollie Harger; three grandchildren; and a brother, John Brennan. A funeral ceremony will be held when it is safe to do so, his family said. Read the original story Barry Lopez, author of ‘Arctic Dreams’ and winner of the National Book Award, dies at 75 on TheWrap