About the authors

Mark has worked as a book packer in Brentano's Bookstore mailroom, a laboratory technician in cancer research, a library runner, wheel potter, advertising copywriter, ditch digger, concrete mason and brick layer, firewood supplier, cook, fitness and strength trainer, science writer, undergraduate and graduate level instructor in behavioral sciences, and a supervised psychotherapist, group therapist, and educator for patients with acute mental illness.For 30 years, before pursuing his PhD in clinical psychology at the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology (now Sophia University), Mark wrote about brilliant minds in psychiatry, biomedical research, dermatology, orthopedics, cardiology, oncology, and microbiology for international corporations. He also writes narrative poetry, flash fiction, short stories, and novellas, pursuits that have held his attention for 56 years. His most recent work is The Town, a flash fiction novella about a young woman's shift in life path after being saved during a mass shooting. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Mark moved to central California and lived there for 25 years. He recently returned to New York, and now lives in the Hamptons on Long Island with his wife, Robyn, and Maru the deaf cat. After surviving heart disease and lung cancer, he invests his time in writing, long-distance cycling, swimming, and trying new recipes. To learn more about the availability of his written work you can contact Dr. Mark Yoslow at walking.the.hill@gmail.com.

Gary lost his father at age 3, was raised by an emotionally distant mother, and his early neglect and isolation led him to a spiritual journey in the dense forests of rainy, grey, Coos Bay Oregon. The wilderness and mother nature became his safe place. At the age of 14 Gary and his mother moved to California where his undiagnosed ADHD inhibited his success in school leading to his working in construction. After volunteering for four years in the Air Force, including traumatic service in Vietnam, Gary experienced PTSD and yet he developed a new-found sense of self-discipline and purpose. His military service and family experiences motivated him to get an education and be of service.He returned to construction to support himself and his family while attending college in the evenings. After completing his undergraduate degree, he worked as both a juvenile hall counselor and probation officer. Upon completion of his graduate degree and becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, he practiced psychotherapy for a local hospital and transitioned into his private practice.A deep regard for the personal knowledge gathered from childhood isolation and contemplation in nature, combined with teaching from Native American elders in the traditions of Vision Quest, inspired Gary to lead wilderness quests for over 40 years.The events of 9-11 prompted Gary to volunteer for 13 years as a Behavioral Health Officer with the California State Guard where he was instrumental in supporting the Air National Guard.In practice for over 40 years as a guide, mentor, and leader in men's work, he has led as many as five men's groups a week. He provides therapy for individuals and couples, and is an EMDR Trauma Specialist. He is co-founder of Plep Psychosocial Consultants where he practices with both his wife and daughter.Gary lives in Los Gatos California with his wife Sue of 44 years where he continues to hike, walk Levi, explore, plant trees and spend time with his three children and grandchildren. Contact: camensctr@aol.com.