A
Walk in the Woods is an account of the walk Bryson did with his
friend Stephen along the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine
(three and a half thousand kilometres). Their experiences range from
the dramatic to the humorous, and in between there is space for
contemplation and even sympathy. Beautifully and humorously
written, I would definitely recommend this book, especially for
anyone who has any kind of overnight hiking experience.
Bryson
scatters much factual information through the book, both geographical
and historical, and by the time I had finished the book I almost felt
that I had experienced the trail at first hand. The difficulties
associated with bears, snakes, unbelievably useless maps, curious
tourists, inconsiderate fellow hikers, mountains, mountains,
mountains, heavy packs, drenching rain and even more mountains paled
against the inexpressible joy of 'owning' those kilometres of trail,
of waking to unspoiled mornings and knowing that there was no one
around for kilometres in all directions.
That they did not actually
walk the entire three and a half thousand kilometres was slightly
disappointing, but I am quite sure that they were more than content
with kilometres they did walk.
