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.

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.

"Tales of a Female Nomad: Living at Large in the World" by Rita Golden Gelman follows the author's journey as she travels the world, immerses herself in different cultures, and learns to relax, trust herself, and shed some of her western modesty. Gelman's memoir documents her life-altering decision to leave her old world behind after a devastating divorce, selling everything she owns to embark on a nomadic lifestyle in her late 40s. provides a fascinating insight into the lives of people from various cultures, showcasing common humanity and the transformative power of travel.

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.

'The Sun Is a Compass' by Caroline Van Hemert is a memoir of her incredible journey covering over 4,000 miles from Washington state to northern Alaska through hiking, skiing, and pack rafting. As a field biologist, Van Hemert intertwines her personal experiences with her scientific research, particularly focusing on migration patterns. The narrative captures the challenges and close calls faced by the author during her adventurous expedition, making it an engaging and inspiring read for those interested in wilderness exploration and personal growth.

'What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding' by Kristin Newman is a travel memoir that follows the author's adventures in her 20s and 30s as she explores different countries, has romantic relationships, and embraces a life of freedom and adventure. The book is described as a mix of travelogue and romantic comedy, with a writing style that reads like a fun novel. Newman shares personal stories about her travels, international romances, and career as a comedy writer in Hollywood, providing insights into her experiences and reflections on choosing different life paths.

Gertrude Bell: Queen of the Desert, Shaper of Nations by Georgina Howell is a captivating biography that delves into the extraordinary life of Gertrude Bell, a British woman who played a pivotal role in shaping the Arab world during the early twentieth century. The book explores Bell's fearless travels through the Middle East, her contributions to the founding of Iraq, and her deep involvement in the political landscape of the region post-World War I. Howell's writing style brings Bell to life, portraying her as a larger-than-life figure who defied societal norms and left a lasting impact on history.

Eat Pray Love follows the journey of Elizabeth Gilbert as she embarks on a year-long adventure to Italy, India, and Bali in search of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment. Through her vivid descriptions of the places she visits and the experiences she encounters, Gilbert shares her personal struggles, growth, and reflections on life. The book intertwines elements of humor, introspection, and cultural exploration, offering readers a glimpse into the author's quest for inner peace and fulfillment.

In "A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains," Isabella L. Bird, a fearless and adventurous Englishwoman, embarks on a solo journey through the Rockies in 1873. Through a series of letters to her sister, she vividly describes her encounters with colorful characters, the flora and fauna of the region, and her daring travels on horseback. Bird's writing captures the essence of the American frontier during a time when travel was challenging and not for the fainthearted.

'Annapurna: A Woman's Place' by Arlene Blum narrates the incredible true story of the first all-women expedition to climb Annapurna. The author skillfully recounts the challenges faced during the expedition, including the struggles with Sherpas, cultural differences, and the determination of the team to summit the deadly mountain. Readers praised the detailed and thorough account of the adventure, highlighting the author's openness about the difficulties encountered and the fears experienced during the climb.

Blum's writing style is described as beautiful and engaging, allowing readers to feel immersed in the story and connected to the experiences of the women climbers. not only showcases the physical challenges of mountain climbing but also delves into the emotional and personal aspects of the journey, making it a compelling read for both mountaineers and general readers alike.