Seasonal Disorder: Ranger Tales from Glacier National Park

by Pat Hagan

Claiming there's too much to explore and discover in Glacier National Park than can be done in one season, Park Ranger Pat Hagan returns every summer, year after year. While some people suffer from Season Affective Disorder (SAD), Hagan says he suffers from "Seasonal Disorder" (SD), a type of depression that results during the remaining seasons--which are: Almost Winter, Winter, Still Winter, and Construction. From the hilarious to the tragically ludicrous, Hagan's tales of his many years of service in Glacier National Park will have you holding your sides with laughter--and fearing for his sanity at the same time.

Because he can't hold down a regular job, Pat Hagan has worked for the last 19 summers as a Seasonal Naturalist in Glacier National Park. He's slowly letting go of the idea of growing up, and behaving like normal people his age. He's quite happy to live in the "Never-Never Land" of Glacier National Park, among the wild creatures and wild lands that constantly surprise and always inspire. In the dark, he looks just like Brad Pitt.

Genres: Memoir, Outdoors, Nonfiction, Travel

148 pages, Paperback

First published March 15, 2006

Reviews

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

We picked up this book at a Glacier National Park (GNP) visitor center after enjoying a few evening campfire programs led by Ranger Pat Hagan. Each night I would read one chapter aloud while we were snuggled into our sleeping bags in our cozy tent. Some nights I could hardly get the words out because I was laughing so hard. The book is comprised of visits as a child to GNP, trying to impress his future wife, and his current Ranger-ing in the Park. Hagan's love for the "Crown of the Continent" shines throughout the book and leaves one aching for the crisp mountain air of northwestern Montana.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having been on one of Ranger Pat's hikes in Two Medicine, I knew this book was going to be hilarious. It did not disappoint. But I would have to say that my favorite chapter was the last one. He captured my feelings about Glacier perfectly. We will always be thankful to Ranger Pat for entertaining our 7 year old daughter down the mountain by telling her Blackfeet Folklore.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

A seasonal ranger from Glacier National Park gives his take on several topics, from growing up in Montana to being tracked by a cougar. Some parts are literally laugh-out-loud funny, while others are just ... cute.

[Joanna Rader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book aloud to my family when we visited Glacier NP this summer. His stories had us all laughing out loud. They also gave us a unique look at seasonal ranger life and a deeper appreciation for the uniqueness of this magical place.

[Colleen O'Brien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous! Funny and heartwarming and an all around great read. Hagan possesses a voice and sensibility like no other, a true Glacier Park authority. His insights are honestly earned and worth your time and attention.

[anonymousreader]

to-read

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent and hilarious book, telling the story of a young park ranger in Glacier National Park in Montana

[Maren · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Funny light read.

[Barbara Lifland · Rating 4 out of 5]

I bought the book after attending one of Pat's Ranger Talks, intending it for my younger grandchildren (ages 8-9 at the time). I think he suggested that I read it first, so I did. I will keep it for them to read, but there are parts that aren't appropriate for all younger children. I like the idea of the poster who read a chapter aloud to her children while in the park. And he makes me want to return to Glacier, which isn't easy for us.

Pat- If you ever read your reviews, many more happy trails to you, and I'll watch for your next book. I also want to read what you'll write when you're a grandpa, should you be so blessed.

[Kathy Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Picked up this hilarious book written by Glacier National Park ranger and naturalist Pat Hagan, on the recommendation of a woman we met who had spent many summers working in the park. As we were visiting Glacier National Park at the time, it made for perfect evening entertainment after a nice long day of hiking. Glacier is truly a national treasure, and Pat Hagan's book of stories is a gem. If you love the outdoors and can appreciate the wry humor and witty observations of a repeat seasonal park ranger, you will love this book. It's laugh out loud funny.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to read this after going to Glacier National Park this summer. Pat's just as funny and informative giving ranger talks in person.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pat Hagan is a funny man.

[Annebet Van weerelt-grefe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bought the book after our trip to Glacier - meeting Pat was a wonderful experience for the whole family and we wish him well!

[Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Beauty is a secret best shared." - Pg. 146

[Heather Sobek · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had high hopes but this book unfortunately didn't meet expectations. Parts are VERY funny but others miss the mark.

[Bonnie Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hilarious! Every outdoor lover with a sense of humor needs to read this.