John Embury was born in Salem, Oregon. In his youth, hiking became John's pathway to the world of nature and discovery--a pathway that has continued throughout his entire life. His high school accomplishments in Track and Field opened the door for John to attend college on an athletic scholarship. Eventually, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from George Fox University and has worked in the health insurance and pharmaceutical industries for almost forty years. He is a father of five children: A son and four beautiful daughters. After thirty-six years of marriage to Sandy, they now have three sons-in-law and six grandchildren. He and Sandy have lived in Boise, Idaho, since 1992. By his own definition, John is just an ordinary guy who values his family and friendships above all else. By The Big Cedar Tree is his first book.
J.W. Embury does a masterful job recounting the adventures of five best friends and the wild idea they create in the Oregon wilderness. Lahn B. Simmons CRPC - 7 Traits Consultant, Registered Investment Advisor From the first page, By The Big Cedar Tree, drew me in and I almost immediately felt the power of deep friendship, camaraderie, and teamwork...I highly recommend reading. Deborah Rodney Book Club Group Leader, Retired Para-Legal By the Big Cedar Tree is J. W. Embury's captivating memoir of his formative years through adulthood...and being in nature allowed him and others to forge platonic bonds on and off mountains. Jon Larsen Esq, World Traveler, Goodreads Champion