John Doolittle, a retired senior executive and former colonel in the United States Air Force Reserve, has released his second book, Responding to Save Others: A Story of Duty, Sacrifice, and Courage. The novel, published by Prime Publishing Labs, is a work of fiction set in the Lake Tahoe basin during a massive winter storm. It follows a team of volunteer ski patrollers as they respond to a series of escalating emergencies, including a chairlift evacuation, a search for two missing children, and the extended multi-day rescue effort that follows. The book is a celebration of service, resilience, and the human spirit, and it offers readers a detailed look at the training, procedures, and teamwork involved in mountain search-and-rescue operations.
Doolittle's narrative draws on his 30 years as a volunteer member of the National Ski Patrol, during which he patrolled at a resort in the Lake Tahoe basin from 1979 to 2008. While the storm and characters are fictional, the author has stated that the events reflect the range of incidents, personalities, and working conditions he encountered over his patrol career. The book's title is drawn from a motto Doolittle developed during his years patrolling. His firsthand experience lends authenticity to the story, providing readers with an accurate portrayal of the challenges and rewards of volunteer rescue work.
The National Ski Patrol was founded in 1938 by Charles Minot "Minnie" Dole and today comprises more than 30,000 members across over 640 patrols worldwide. Doolittle's novel highlights the critical role these volunteers play in ensuring safety in mountainous regions. By bringing this world to a broader audience, the book may inspire greater appreciation for the dedication of ski patrollers and potentially encourage new volunteers to join their ranks. For readers in Long Beach and surrounding areas, the novel offers a compelling look at a form of community service that often goes unrecognized but is vital to public safety in winter sports destinations.
"Responding to Save Others" is Doolittle's second book. His first, "Khoda Hafez…Goodbye Iran," now in its second edition, is a nonfiction account of his family's move to Tehran in 1978, where he witnessed the onset of the Iranian Revolution and the final months of the Shah's rule. This latest work showcases Doolittle's versatility as an author, transitioning from memoir to fiction while maintaining a focus on duty and sacrifice. More information about the author and his books can be found at https://johndoolittlebook.com/.
The release of this novel comes at a time when the importance of first responders and volunteer services is increasingly recognized. By sharing his experiences through fiction, Doolittle not only entertains but also educates readers about the complexities of mountain rescue. The book serves as a tribute to the men and women of the National Ski Patrol and may help raise awareness of their contributions. As readers in Long Beach and beyond delve into this story, they may gain a deeper understanding of the risks and rewards faced by those who respond to save others in challenging environments.
