Summits, Trails and Books, Oh My!

I accidentally recorded what has become my favorite show of the year, and it's started me on an obsession that won't easily be assuaged. The show, Everest: Beyond the Limit, is the best thing to hit TV in a long time. It chronicles the story of a team of strangers who are seeking to climb Mount Everest. Their ascent of the mountain, and the accompanying story lines, is some of the most riveting stuff ever put on film. Incredible!!

Since discovering this gem, I can't get the idea of climbing and hiking out of my mind. I have no plans to climb Everest, but those who have attempted this feat are fascinating to me. I would, however, like to try something closer to sea level, and a little more attainable. Perhaps something like the Appalachian Trail.

In light of this, I've purchase two books that I highly recommend. The first is "Into Thin Air", by Jon Krakauer. It's the story of an Everest expedition gone wrong... very wrong. This book is intense and gripping, and it's also very sad. Even so, it's an enthralling read. The second book is called "A Walk in the Woods", by Bill Bryson, and this book is so funny and fresh that I just about can't put it down. It's Bryson's account of his hike through the Appalachian Trail (more than 2,100 miles). This guy can flat out write, and it's as enjoyable a book as I've ever read. A true joy!

If you have some time this holiday season to rip through a book, these two are guaranteed to satisfy. Enjoy!!