A Walk in the Woods

   I was not familiar with the Appalachian Trail before I read this book.  I had a vague knowledge that it existed but that was about the extent of it.  Now I feel like I know the trail, have knowledge of the hike, and understand the area it covers so much better.

  This is a great armchair travel book.  I got to travel the trail and enjoy the hike, but didn’t have to purchase the equipment, carry the pack, or go through the physical challenges.  Yet, I feel like I actually traveled the trail with Bryson and Katz.  What I liked about this book besides the travel up the trail, was the historical facts about the trail and the park service as well as Bryson’s critique on the history and the park service.  The critique didn’t pull any punches and laid out exactly how Bryson felt about all things related to the AT (Appalachian Trail).

   This was also a story of unlikely relationships and how they develop.  When Bryson tries to find someone to accompany him, a most unlikely person agrees to go along with him.  How the two men’s relationship develops with each other, with the trail, and with fellow hikers as well as all of the assorted characters they meet along the way who speed them along on their journey: innkeepers, shop keepers, the various restaurants they visit, people traveling along highways who provide free rides.  It’s also about, how they come to crave everyday life and the items that go with it: a comfortable bed, a soft drink, a hot shower, highways, and traffic. 

    This book has it all: history, vicarious travel and adventure, relationships, a story line that grabs your attention and won’t let go, plus it’s easy to read, too.  Pick up a copy of this book and travel the AT with Bryson and Katz.