Island Visions, by Jacob Seigel Brielle and Isaac Seigel-Boettner

Few experiences promise as much nature, culture, wonder, and adventure as a trip to California’s Channel Islands, and almost nothing captures that eye-opening combination of hands-on learning and outdoor enjoyment besides a return visit. But thanks to a visually vibrant collection of essays, interviews, photography, and illustrations, a new book called Island Visions translates the islands’ magic into a beautifully portable format, conveying the spirit and excitement of an excursion there while serving full educational helpings of the archipelago’s science, history, and personalities.

The 386-page hardcover was spearheaded by Santa Barbara–raised brothers Jacob Seigel Brielle and Isaac Seigel-Boettner, who’ve been visiting the islands since their first trip there as Santa Barbara Middle School (SBMS) students. The project, which was also supported by SBMS and Maps.com, started more than seven years ago following the tragic death of nature/underwater filmmaker Mike deGruy, whose kids also attended SBMS. 

Isaac Seigel-Boettner and Jacob Seigel Brielle | Credit: Courtesy