I've read this book several times now and I still find it hilarious. Mostly, I admit, because I identify with Katz. I do a bit of tramping myself in New Zealand, and inevitably I end up thinking "Why, WHY am I doing this, torturing myself with this repulsively heavy pack, when I could be at home (re)watching The X-Files?" Katz, I feel you mate.

But the book's more than an excuse for self-mockery. It's quite informative, with historical and geographical info sprinkled in - enough to give a sense of the Trail, and possibly make it sound more attractive than it might really be. I suspect hiking the Appalachian Trail is one of those bucket list ideas that's a lot nicer in theory than practice, but still...

I can understand why Bryson's fascinated with it. He's got me fascinated with it too.

(Apart from the bears. I can live without those, thank you very much.)