Books Like...
'Grandma Gatewood's Walk' by Ben Montgomery is a biography that tells the inspiring story of Emma Gatewood, a sixty-seven-year-old great-grandmother who, in 1955, became the first woman to hike the entire 2,050-mile Appalachian Trail alone. Despite facing hardships such as raising eleven children during the Great Depression and surviving an abusive husband, Emma Gatewood's determination and resilience shine through as she embarks on this unprecedented journey. The book highlights her adventurous spirit, her love for nature, and her journey towards finding redemption and happiness through hiking.
The narrative style of the book captures the essence of Emma Gatewood's extraordinary life and her trailblazing accomplishments. Through vivid descriptions of her trek, the author paints a picture of a woman who defied societal norms and paved the way for future generations of hikers. The book not only explores Emma Gatewood's physical journey but also delves into the emotional and historical context of her life, making it a compelling read for those interested in tales of courage, perseverance, and the great outdoors.
If you liked Grandma Gatewood's Walk: The Inspiring Story of the Woman Who Saved the Appalachian Trail, here are the top 100 books to read next:
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Save:'Thirst: 2600 Miles to Home' by Heather Anish Anderson is a gripping narrative of her journey to complete the Pacific Crest Trail Fastest Known Time, covering over 2600 miles in a record-breaking time. Through her honest and relatable writing style, Anderson shares her struggles with thirst, heat exhaustion, altitude sickness, and overall physical and mental exhaustion during her incredible feat. The book not only focuses on the challenges she faced on the trail but also delves into her introspection, motivations, and the sheer willpower that kept her going.
Heather Anish Anderson's writing is engaging, inspiring, and filled with vivid descriptions that transport the reader to the wilderness along the PCT. Her ability to blend humor, vulnerability, and truth in her storytelling creates a narrative that is not only captivating but also thought-provoking. Anderson's journey is not just about breaking records but also about self-discovery, perseverance, and the deep connection one can find with nature through challenging experiences.
I stood in disbelief for several moments. The creek was bone dry. After I turned on my phone and waited for it to check my location, I could feel my stomach churning and sinking. I already knew that I... 'Tracks: A Woman's Solo Trek Across 1700 Miles of Australian Outback' by Robyn Davidson is a memoir recounting the author's incredible journey of trekking across the Australian desert with her three camels. The narrative captures both the physical challenges and emotional growth experienced by Davidson during the expedition. Readers are taken through a vivid description of the Australian Outback, indigenous customs, and the author's personal reflections on self-reliance, determination, and resilience. Davidson's writing style blends humor, sadness, and introspection, creating a compelling account of her exploration and encounters during the challenging trek.
I ARRIVED IN THE ALICE at five a.m. with a dog, six dollars and a small suitcase full of inappropriate clothes. ‘Bring a cardigan for the evenings,’ the brochure said. A freezing wind whipped grit dow...- #3
Save:The Salt Path by Raynor Winn is a memoir that follows a middle-aged couple, Ray and Moth, who lose their home and livelihood and receive the devastating news of Moth's terminal illness. Despite their dire circumstances, they decide to embark on a 630-mile backpacking adventure along the South West Coast Path, facing physical hardship, homelessness, and encounters with nature and people along the way. Raynor Winn's writing style is described as deeply personal, emotional, and vivid, providing a realistic depiction of their journey and the healing power of nature.
I was under the stairs when I decided to walk. In that moment, I hadn’t carefully considered walking 630 miles with a rucksack on my back, I hadn’t thought about how I could afford to do it, or that I... 'Thru-Hiking Will Break Your Heart: An Adventure on the Pacific Crest Trail' by Carrot Quinn is a raw and honest account of the author's transformative journey on the Pacific Crest Trail. The book follows Carrot as she navigates the challenges of the trail, from physical hardships to emotional revelations, all while vividly describing the landscapes and people she encounters. The writing style is engaging, with readers feeling like they are walking alongside Carrot as she shares her experiences in an open and candid manner.
Finn and I have a nice breakfast at the campground, cooking eggs over my little alcohol stove. I'm not in much of a rush to get started. I barely slept the night before; mostly I lay awake, staring at...- #5
Save:Travels with My Aunt by Graham Greene is a humorous and entertaining novel that follows the story of Henry Pulling, a retired bank manager, who embarks on a series of adventures with his eccentric aunt, Augusta. The book explores themes of self-discovery, unconventional relationships, and the contrast between a mundane life and a more exciting, unpredictable existence. Greene's writing style is described as light-hearted, humorous, and filled with witty dialogue that brings the characters and their escapades to life.
I met my Aunt Augusta for the first time in more than half a century at my mother’s funeral. My mother was approaching eighty-six when she died, and my aunt was some eleven or twelve years younger. I ... - #6
Save:Tony Hawks accepted a bet to travel around the island of Ireland in one month. With a fridge. Fuelled by Guinness and Irish breakfasts, Hawks manages to cram the book with great anecdotes and humor. The story follows his journey from town to town, encountering incredible generosity and humor from the people he meets along the way, all while realizing that Ireland is one of the friendliest and most beautiful countries in the world.
When the moment arrived for me to set foot on the Emerald Isle, it was as a result of a badly written song. An Irish friend from London, Seamus, had urged me to compose a piece for him and his mate Ti... - #7
Save:Lillian Boxfish Takes a Walk is a novel that follows the journey of Lillian Boxfish, an 85-year-old woman who decides to walk across Manhattan on New Year's Eve in 1984. As she strolls through the city, she reflects on her life as a copy editor in the 1930s, her successful career in advertising, her marriage, motherhood, and the changes she witnessed in New York City. Through her reminiscences, readers are taken on a historical and emotional journey, learning about Lillian's past and the evolution of the city she loves.
The book beautifully intertwines Lillian's personal story with the vibrant backdrop of New York City, portraying her as a resilient and inspiring character who navigates through various challenges and triumphs in her life. The writing style captures the essence of different eras, providing a glimpse into Lillian's past experiences and the city's transformation, making it a poignant and nostalgic exploration of love, loss, and resilience.
There once was a girl named Phoebe Snow. She wore only white and held tight to a violet corsage, an emblem of modesty. She was not retiring, though, and her life spun out as a series of journeys throu... - #8
Save:'Woodswoman' by Anne LaBastille is a memoir about a woman who moves to a secluded cabin in the Adirondack Mountains, living a solitary life surrounded by nature. The book details her experiences of building her own cabin, surviving without modern conveniences, and embracing the challenges and beauty of living in the wilderness. Anne's writing style is described as descriptive, conversational, and filled with observations on wildlife, daily life, and the changing seasons.
Wild by Cheryl Strayed is a memoir about the author's decision to hike the Pacific Crest Trail as a way of dealing with grief and trauma. Cheryl embarks on this solo journey to confront her emotions, understand herself, and find healing. The book delves into Cheryl's personal struggles, including the loss of her mother and a self-destructive divorce, intertwined with her physical trek through the wilderness. Through introspection and self-discovery, Cheryl navigates her past and present, ultimately finding peace and renewed strength.
My solo three-month hike on the Pacific Crest Trail had many beginnings. There was the first, flip decision to do it, followed by the second, more serious decision to actually do it, and then the long...- #10
Save:"Wanderlust: A History of Walking" by Rebecca Solnit is a philosophical and literary exploration of the act of walking. The book delves into the historical, cultural, and philosophical significance of walking, touching on topics such as the relationship between walking and thinking, the impact of property rights and gender on walking, and the evolution of walking in urban spaces. Through a mix of personal anecdotes, historical accounts, and literary references, Solnit weaves together a narrative that challenges readers to reconsider the act of walking as more than just a means of transportation.
Where does it start? Muscles tense. One leg a pillar, holding the body upright between the earth and sky. The other a pendulum, swinging from behind. Heel touches down. The whole weight of the body ro...
