The reviewer found Bill Bryson's 'A Walk in the Woods' entertaining and humorous, particularly enjoying the dynamic between Bryson and his ill-prepared friend Katz. However, they noted a lack of emotional connection with nature and a focus on physical duress, which made the experience feel more about personal challenge than natural wonder.
Bill Bryson's 'A Walk in the Woods' is a highly entertaining account of his attempt to walk the Appalachian Trail with his friend Katz. The reviewer particularly enjoyed the humorous interactions between Bryson and Katz, who is portrayed as relatable and comically unprepared. The book is filled with Bryson's signature wit and comic writing, making it a enjoyable read. However, the reviewer noted a lack of emotional connection with the natural surroundings, which they felt would have made the wilderness challenge more meaningful. Instead, the focus is on the physical duress and personal challenge of the journey. The reviewer also appreciated the book's critique of consumerism and the false values that some people bring to wilderness experiences. Overall, while the book is funny and engaging, it lacks the deeper spiritual or psychological insights that one might hope for from such an adventure.
Quick quotes
They learned from the wilderness, and this kind of experience would stay with you for life.
The book opens with several pages of preparatory thoughts and research about the Trail, which presents a fireworks display of comic writing and is almost painfully funny to read, as Bill gets the idea, tells his nearest and dearest, starts reading books about it, listening to horror stories, stocking up with equipment, and trying to persuade one of his friends and acquaintances to come with him.
The author’s conversations with Katz are often very funny.