Donna Morang

I was born in Montana, and lived eighteen years on a ranch outside Two Dot in Central Montana. Later we moving to Alaska where we mined gold, spending free time fishing or hunting. Looking for a warmer life we moved to Ellensburg, Washington where once again I was a rancher/farmer.

I became a potter and glass artist later in life, and owned a couple of art galleries. I still miss getting my hands in the mud, or cutting a piece of glass to see what the kiln will return.

In 2000 I made a decision to travel and teach English as a second language, and it was the best choice I've ever made. I have a love for foreign countries, and the people I've met have made my life beautiful.

Teaching and traveling for twelve years brought about a desire to share these experiences with friends and family. I became more interested in writing and Big Backpack--Little World was one of the outcomes.

My memoir of Alaska is filled with fishing, hunting, camping, and mining for gold stories. We began our journey to Alaska in 1967, and for several years we spent all our free time hunting, and fishing. Even after the birth of our daughter we ventured in to the Brooks Range to live in a cabin and mine for gold.

These are stories of how Alaskans lived in the 60's and 70's while it was still the Last Great Frontier.

I hope you enjoy your Alaskan adventure.