James McCommons, professor emeritus, taught journalism and nature writing at Northern Michigan University in the Upper Peninsula for 20 years. Previously, he was a newspaper reporter, magazine editor, and business writer. He continues to work as a book author and freelance magazine writer with specialties in travel and environmental issues. He has published in Audubon, the L.A. Times, the New York Times, Discover, the History Channel Magazine, and Better Homes and Gardens. His latest book "The Feather Wars and the Great Crusade to Save America's Birds" will be released March 17, 2026 by St. Martin's Press.