As the author of An Island in Time, John Hart explores the history of Point Reyes National Seashore, traces the triumph of its creation, the rescue effort that saved it from early abandonment, and its frequent identity crises since. In writing the book, Hart drew on his over 40 years of experience as an environmental journalist and poet in the Bay Area. In that time he has authored 16 books and published hundreds of articles in a variety of publications. This tireless effort towards promoting conservation led him to be the winner of the David R. Brower Award for Service in the Field of Conservation.

Hart earned a BA in Comparative Literature from Princeton. He was also the winner of the James D. Phelan Award and the Commonwealth Club Medal in Californiana.