Review: "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson

What a notable, fun true story about a walk in the woods! This isn’t just any woods or walk; this is the Appalachian Trail, the footpath that stretches from Georgia thru Maine. Bill Bryson decides to go because the trail is in trouble, between acid rain and the slowly rising temperatures caused by global warming, a lot of the trees and surrounding fauna and animals will disappear and some already have over the history of the trail. What follows is his account of his hike with his buddy, Stephen Katz, covering their misadventures and mishaps and everything in between.

This was a very enjoyable, informational read! Mr. Bryson’s writing style is engaging and funny. There are quite a few “laugh out loud” moments that keep you captivated and page turning. Also interspersed throughout the book are fascinating facts and information concerning the history of the trail, the trees and animals currently residing there and the ones lost for all time. He also includes his encounters with other hikers and the wide range of people he meets on the trail and their sometimes comical attempts to conquer it.

If you love to hike or even take leisurely walks in the woods, definitely pick this book up. It is engaging and will keep you interested, from his conservation insights to his observations of his surroundings and people.