A Walk in the Woods

by Bill Bryson
A Walk in the Woods cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Travel and Adventure
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Paperback • £10.99
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Technical
  • ID: 1974
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9780552997027
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 1998-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

A Walk in the Woods recounts Bill Bryson's attempt to hike the entire Appalachian Trail, a 2,200-mile journey through some of America's most breathtaking and challenging landscapes. Along the way, he encounters a variety of wildlife, from bears to rattlesnakes, and navigates the quirks of fellow hikers and his own unreliable companion, Stephen Katz. The book is not just an adventure story but also a humorous and insightful look at the natural world and the people who explore it. Bryson's wit and keen observations make this a memorable and entertaining read for anyone who loves the outdoors or enjoys a good laugh.

Reviews
SC Skillman · 2023-05-25
informative 3.50

The book offers a mix of historical insights and personal anecdotes, with a particular highlight being the detailed account of the American chestnut tree. The writing is engaging and informative, though some sections feel a bit superficial.

This reviewer appreciates the blend of history and personal storytelling in the book. They particularly enjoyed the detailed section about the American chestnut tree, finding it both educational and engaging. However, they felt that some parts of the book were a bit superficial, lacking the depth they were hoping for. Overall, it's a good read with moments of brilliance, but not without its shortcomings.

Quick quotes

    We find a factual and historical piece about the great American chestnut tree and its ultimate fate, and one lovely passage about a surprise.

    The book offers a mix of history and personal anecdotes.

    It's readable, informative but quite superficial.

The Melodramatic Bookworm · 2018-11-26
hilarious 4.00

The book is praised for its humor and self-deprecating style, making it a hilarious read. The reviewer enjoys Bryson's ability to poke fun at everything, including himself.

This reviewer found the book to be incredibly funny, especially in the way Bryson pokes fun at everything around him, including himself. They appreciated the self-deprecating humor and the overall light-hearted tone of the book. The reviewer enjoyed the book so much that they found themselves laughing out loud at times. The humor and wit make it a delightful read, even if the plot isn't the most substantial.

Quick quotes

    I found this book hilarious in the way he pokes fun at everything in the world, including himself.

    At one point I was asking myself how I could not have read this book sooner.

    Bryson's humor is infectious and makes the book a joy to read.

The New York Times · 1998-05-21
engaging 4.50

The book is both funny and serious, blending dry humor with significant environmental and historical insights. It's a well-rounded piece that balances entertainment with substance.

This reviewer highlights the dual nature of the book, which is both funny and serious. They appreciate the dry humor that runs throughout the narrative, as well as the significant environmental and historical insights Bryson provides. The reviewer finds that the book successfully balances entertainment with substance, making it a well-rounded and enjoyable read. The blend of humor and serious topics makes it a unique and engaging experience.

Quick quotes

    "A Walk in the Woods" is a funny book, full of dry humor in the native-American grain.

    It is also a serious book, dealing with significant environmental and historical issues.

    Nothing really terrible happens, but the book is filled with moments of insight and wit.

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