Nisbet, a specialist on Thompson, has written a biography of the explorer and mapmaker that focuses on the five years he spent recording the lands and rivers of the Columbia River Plateau in the late 18th century. Drawing on Thompson"s detailed journals (which are quoted throughout), Nisbet relates the story of his journey, the realities of daily life in the wilderness, his work in establishing fur-trading posts, and the frequent encounters he made with the area"s Native Americans. The text is beautifully illustrated with watercolors and drawings made of the area by later visitors as well as Thompson"s maps. An initial chapter describes Thompson"s education and training with the Hudson Bay Company. Annotation ©2005 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)