A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail: 4 Stars

 

 A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson

Bill Bryson decided to hike the Appalachian Trail; a feat that requires walking over 2,000 miles. The book chronicles his adventures with his friend, Stephen Katz. It starts with him buying his equipment and he immediately had me hooked. His reaction to the prices and "necessities" of a sporting goods store is similar to my own. His sarcasm and wit knew no end. 

Eventually he starts out on the trail and the journey begins. Starting off slow and inexperienced, Bill and Stephan eventually find themselves keeping up a decent pace and giving advice to less experienced hikers. They interact with several different kinds of people from the entertaining to the annoying. 

Bryson also gives us a wonderful history lesson on the Appalachian Trail; something I know very little about. There are also towns along the trail with fascinating histories, such as Centrailia, PA, which has been burning underground since 1962, making it a ghost town. 

Bryson talks about the ups and downs of life on the trail. He has the ability to break away from time, schedules, electronics, and really free his mind. He also accounts of the number of people who have died on the trail, whether because of accidents, bear attacks, or murders (two girls were murdered during his time on the trail). 

Bryson is an excellent writer with an excellent ability to keep you hooked. I was thoroughly impressed with his adventures and would love to try other books by him.

Rating: PG-13

Recommended for those who enjoy: sarcasm, nature, and journeys.