A Walk In The Woods
In the past month I’ve managed to read three books; one sci-fi book, another about the Iraq war, and the third book entitled A Walk In The Woods by a one Mr. Bill Bryson. Much to my surprise, A Walk In The Woods happened to be the most entertaining book I’ve read in quite a long time. I was honestly a bit sad to have finished it.
To say that AWitW was an “enjoyable read” would do this novel a great injustice.
To put it bluntly, A Walk In The Words is about the author’s bid to hike the Appalachian Trail. Part journal, part historical record, and part fiction/non-fiction novel, AWitW covers everything from the pains encountered while hiking the AT, the shenanigans that go on in the National Parks Service, the history of the trail (from initial concept and construction to deaths (both natural and unnatural) on the AT), characters both famous and infamous, strange backwoods towns, day hikers and thru-hikers, how best to pack for such a trip (and how quickly your hiking partner can throw it all away on the trail), wildlife encounters, defending yourself against bear attacks with nail clippers, plant collecting, deforestation, land (mis)management, crazy cab drivers, sketchy motels, abandoned towns on fire, aggressive security guards, and the sense of longing for the trail months after having come home.
Oh, and for the record, I’d invite Katz to hike with me any time.
It’s evident that Bill Bryson did his homework on the AT. With a thorough knowledge of the history of the AT he’s able to weave into the story great insights about the past and possible future of this 2,100+ mile trail. His personal encounters with the people he met and the places he visited brings to life an isolated trail in the woods that is very much a world unto its own. Even through the hardships and dangers, Bill makes hiking a trail that snakes its way through 14 different states seem like a calling. I can’t help but find myself enamored with the thought of packing up a bag (don’t forget your waterproof outer cover), dropping out for a few months, hitching a ride to the trailhead and heading out into the unknown.
Peppered with humor and a scattershot of keen insight, A Walk In The Woods is a book that athletes and daydreamers of all levels should read.
This is an EXCELLENT review on a book!
You are so talented with words, my friend!
And this seems like a book I would thoroughly enjoy, so I’ll look for it at Barnes and Noble.
“defending yourself against bear attacks with nail clippers.”
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA…that KILLED me!
Hope you’re having a great Monday!
You really should track down a copy. It really is a fantastic read!