★★★★★ 5
An epic adventure with a rich cast of characters
Format: Paperback
Scout paints the Mojave as bursting with life, a poetic world full of chaparral and chinquapin, of creosote scrub and conifers. These wild vivid landscapes are a backdrop to the real heart of the story, which, like all great stories, is always about People.
The Human Drama, sometimes of People vs the Environment, but more often of People vs Themselves. Overcoming our own fears or injuries or burdens that life inevitably deals to us all. This book captures the pursuit of people stretching themselves, challenging themselves to change and grow.
He does an excellent job of capturing the "esprit de corps" of the trail, of near strangers and fast friends looking out for one another, and the crescendoing intensity as they race against Father Winter. We meet a wide ensemble of characters, which is one of the most magical aspects of any long hike. It is the great equalizer, where people from all walks of life come together and share fellowship.
There are numerous role models within this book. It is impossible to not be inspired by Jan, the quintessential Fixer, or the protagonists who demonstrate exemplary examples of forgiveness and reconciliation, and other humble benefactors and do-gooders who understand that their gifts are more than simply money. They are giving opportunity. The fixers, the reconciliers, the benefactors....we should all aspire to be these types of people.
I hope this is but the first of his trail books. I'm certain there are many of us who would enjoy reading about his adventures from New Mexico to Montana as well. How fortunate was he to meet such wonderful people, and how fortunate are we to share their experiences from the comfort of our homes.
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Reviewed in the United States on August 11, 2020