BOOK REVIEW: A Walk in the Woods

A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail, by Bill Bryson, taps into something that probably lurks deep in the hearts of most people. At some level, there is, I believe, something in each of us that wants to walk away from the crazy cacophony of life for awhile and connect with the simplicity of nature. Bryson did just that, and because of the adventures he records we are able to connect as well.

This book combines detailed information on each section of the Appalachian Trail, such as plant and animal life, historical background, and interesting anecdotes, with Bryson's personal experiences while hiking it. His overweight friend and co-hiker, Stephen Katz, offers comic relief as he struggles to keep up. Together the two of them meet some remarkable characters; in fact, one is so remarkable they may or may not have ditched her along the way. The constant threat of a bear attack lends background suspense. And although Bryson does not hike the trail through from one end to the other, he samples enough of it to give readers a thorough overview. 

Bryson's dry humor had me chuckling many times. His quirky perspective on the adventures he encountered on the AT was refreshing, and it made the wilderness come alive. If you've ever wanted to get out in the open and away from it all but can't quite quit your job and leave your living room, you will enjoy A Walk in the Woods. 

For more on the book, go here. I received this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers in exchange for a fair review.