A Walk in the Woods

My grandpa recommended this book to me twenty years ago. We had gone on several backpacking trips together in the northwest, so it was a topic we both had an interest in. However, I had certain expectations about this book based on what I knew of my grandpa. He was a man who held tightly to Christian beliefs and principles and frowned upon vulgar language. Thus, when shortly into this book the author used language my grandpa would never use, I was surprised.

What I liked about the book:
- Hearing the tales of normal people (not outdoor junkies) like me who set out on an epic backpack adventure.
- The air of authenticity in the tone of the narrative.
- As a conservationist, I appreciated how the author gives facts and opinions about the state of the forested areas interspersed throughout the story narrative. I would be interested to learn how conservation efforts along the Appalachian Trail have changed in the last twenty years.

What I didn't like:
Most of what I didn't like is minor.
- There is more swearing in the book than I'm accustomed to. This I see as a cultural thing and not so much a moral thing. With exception to when characters use the name of Jesus Christ frivolously.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It gave me a new perspective of the Appalachian Trail, its history, and what its future could be. I also appreciated that the book shows how we can get out and enjoy nature without having to do it a certain way, like hiking that AT all the way through in one go.

I am definitely interested in reading more from Bryson and can see myself reading this book again in the futre.