Author John Doolittle has released "Responding to Save Others: A Story of Duty, Sacrifice, and Courage," a work of fiction set in the Lake Tahoe basin during a massive winter storm. The novel 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 available for purchase at Responding to Save Others: A Story of Duty, Sacrifice, and Courage.
The narrative draws on Doolittle's 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 depicted in the book 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.
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 offers readers an account of the training, procedures, and teamwork involved in mountain search-and-rescue operations. This insight is particularly valuable as ski patrollers are often the first responders in remote, challenging environments, and their work is critical to public safety in mountainous regions.
"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. More information about the author and his work can be found at https://johndoolittlebook.com/.
John Doolittle lives in Northern California with his wife, Nora. He holds a degree in economics and a master's degree in finance. He retired as a senior executive from Pacific Bell/SBC and as a colonel in the United States Air Force Reserve. John is a member of the National Ski Patrol; though now retired from active patrolling, he served for 30 years and was recognized with the Distinguished Service Award and a National Appointment. John and Nora both graduated from Occidental College in Los Angeles, California. They have traveled to more than 45 countries and enjoy bridge, golf, and skiing. They have two married children with families of their own, one in Florida and the other in California.
The release of "Responding to Save Others" comes at a time when interest in first responder narratives and outdoor recreation safety is high. By sharing the realities of ski patrol work, Doolittle provides a window into the dedication and skill required to keep winter sports enthusiasts safe. The book may also serve as an inspiration for those considering volunteer service with the National Ski Patrol or other rescue organizations.
Published by Prime Publishing Labs, the novel is positioned to appeal to readers who enjoy adventure stories grounded in authentic experience. It celebrates service, resilience, and the human spirit, themes that resonate beyond the ski community. As winter approaches, this book offers a timely reminder of the unsung heroes who patrol our mountains.
