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Tim(othy R.) (Buck Wilder) Smith Biography (1945-) - Sidelights

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Tim Smith is the author behind the titles in the "Buck Wilder" series, which focuses on providing young readers with an introduction to a variety of natural resources and outdoor pursuits. Inspired by childhood camping and fishing trips he took with his uncle, Smith created the Buck Wilder character in order to help teach his audience how to enjoy the great outdoors in a safe and respectful way. Buck Wilder's Small Fry Fishing Guide: A Complete Introduction to the World of Fishing for Small Fry of All Ages, the first book in the series, covers the basics of the sport, including descriptions of lake fish and their habitat. In Buck Wilder's Small Twig Hiking and Camping Guide: The Complete Introduction to the World of Hiking and Camping for Small Twigs of All Ages, Smith includes regional overviews of different hiking and camping locations, a list of recommended gear, and information about the more practical aspects of camping, such as first aid and cooking. Kendal Rautzhan of the Daily Item praised Smith's "clear, concise text" and called the book "a sensational beginner's guide to the great outdoors."

Smith spends much of the school year speaking to elementary-aged children, giving presentations on his "Buck Wilder" outdoor guides. In his storytelling style, Smith is known to entertain as he educates his audience. During his presentations, he explains the value of hard work and persistence while also emphasizing to children the importance of imagination and creativity. Smith told SATA, "Creating and publishing books was new for me. I made mistakes, kept on working at it even with major obstacles in my way, and did more than was expected to finish the books." Smith also stresses the importance of believing in yourself and humorously shows kids how they can get creative.

Biographical and Critical Sources

PERIODICALS

Boating, December, 2001, review of Buck Wilder's Little Skipper Boating Guide: A Complete Introduction to the World of Boating for Little Skippers of All Ages.

Daily Item, August 13, 1997, Kendal Rautzhan, review of Buck Wilder's Small Twig Hiking and Camping Guide: The Complete Introduction to the World of Hiking and Camping for Small Twigs of All Ages, p. E3.

Detroit Free Press, June 28, 1995, Ellen Creager, review of Buck Wilder's Small Fry Fishing Guide: A Complete Introduction to the World of Fishing for Small Fry of All Ages, p. 3F; July 24, 2003, Janice Campbell, "Meet the Real Buck Wilder," p. 8F.

Detroit News, September 5, 1995, Fannie Weinstein, "A Prize Catch, Witty 'Buck Wilder' Fishing Guide Reels in Readers."

Family Life, March, 1999, review of Buck Wilder's Small Twig Hiking and Camping Guide: The Complete Introduction to the World of Hiking and Camping for Small Twigs of All Ages, p. 33.

ONLINE

Buck Wilder Adventures and Books, http://www.buckwilder.com/ (February 12, 2004).

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