The roots of the eastern white pine run deep, literally and figuratively-the mighty tree has triggered rebellions, generated fortunes, and ignited the battle for national independence. Andrew Vietze has created a unique view of American history, one that''s beautifully written, lucid and detailed and fascinating throughout. -Michael Finkel, author of the New York Times bestseller, The Stranger in the Woods The white pine is one of the great McGuffins of history, a forgotten prime mover in the creation of both New England and the United States. Now Andrew Vietze has placed that noble tree where it belongs, as a focal point of our national story. White Pine is good history written in a refreshing, breezy style, surprising, illuminating and informed.  -James L. Nelson, Author of Benedict Arnold''s Navy Award-winning author Andrew Vietze''s White Pine is a gripping ride through a history of exploitation, power, and oppression rife with monarchies and massacres, diseases and deceits, rebels and the good fight. It''s the story of hardworking, independent people as singular and proud as their chosen totem, the mighty yet modest White Pine. -Matthew P. Mayo, award-winning author of Stranded: A Story of Frontier Survival Andrew Vietze gives the eastern white pine the Kurlansky treatment with this meticulous and affectionate exploration of how the commonplace conifer has shaped (and continues to shape) New England. No silvicultural slog, it''s a sweeping and surprisingly lively tribute to the trees that became the struts - and the symbols - of a rambunctious young nation. And it''ll renew your appreciation for what''s left of our once-great eastern woodlands. -Brian Kevin, Managing Editor, Down East Magazine