Among the numerous works authored by the prolific John McPhee, Coming into the Country stands out as one of the most compelling. Much like his earlier books, such as The Pine Barrens (1968) and Encounters with the Archdruid (1971), as well as the geological series comprising Basin and Range (1981), In Suspect Terrain (1983), and Rising from the Plains (1986), this book explores a region or set of experiences that are likely to be foreign to his readers. McPhee deftly examines the interaction between humans and nature in these extraordinary settings and conditions. His skill lies in presenting fascinating individuals while vividly conveying their interests and emotions, often through the use of dialogue and succinct action descriptions.

In Coming into the Country, McPhee delves into the dynamics of relationships in the rugged environment of Eagle, Alaska. This exploration is achieved without the presence of preachiness. McPhee occasionally hints at his disdain for certain behaviors or attitudes, yet he refrains from adopting a condescending tone, either toward his subjects or his readers. The narrative illustrates that people hold vastly different survival strategies in the unforgiving Alaskan landscape, with none being definitively right, wrong, superior, or inferior. What might appear as irrational to one individual is entirely logical to another. McPhee portrays the unique qualities necessary for survival in rural or small-town Alaska, without implying that one set of traits holds greater value or utility over others.

Of all McPhee's works, Coming into the Country perhaps most vividly reflects his passion for the wilderness—an unspoiled, formidable, yet stunning natural world. His descriptive prowess shines as he depicts the remarkable setting of Eagle nestled in the Yukon basin, the silhouette of the Brooks Range against the Alaskan sky, and the chilling encounter with an indifferent yet fearsome grizzly bear during a seemingly routine hike. The extraordinary achievement of this book, however, lies in illustrating the myriad ways humans engage with this extraordinary landscape, highlighting both the subtle and significant interactions that define life in this remote part of the world.