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The Long, Steep Path
"Ryan Hyde’s latest offering is true to her style — honest, insightful, and shared from a place that is earthy and sometimes gritty, but quite beautiful in its simplicity and scope." –Blogcritics Books
By the bestselling author of DON'T LET ME GO and PAY IT FORWARD, this entertaining and life-affirming collection of autobiographical stories explores the rewards and challenges of building a happy life of self-knowledge and creative inspiration, from a writer who has been through it all.
"What inspired you to write the novel Pay It Forward?"
Years after the publication of Pay It Forward, this is still the most common question asked of Catherine Ryan Hyde, bestselling and critically acclaimed author of 20 published and forthcoming books, including Don't Let Me Go, When You Were Older, and Pay It Forward, the incredible bestselling novel that led to a movie, a foundation, and an entire social movement.
Everything Pay It Forward became is rooted in a small, but extraordinary act of kindness, which Catherine received as a young adult. It was one moment that caused her to look at life in a different way. It was a moment of pure, human inspiration.
In THE LONG STEEP PATH: EVERYDAY INSPIRATION FROM THE AUTHOR OF PAY IT FORWARD, Catherine shares her story, as well as what inspires her, in a series of funny and totally engaging autobiographical stories that are at once personal and universal.
By the bestselling author of DON'T LET ME GO and PAY IT FORWARD, this entertaining and life-affirming collection of autobiographical stories explores the rewards and challenges of building a happy life of self-knowledge and creative inspiration, from a writer who has been through it all.
"What inspired you to write the novel Pay It Forward?"
Years after the publication of Pay It Forward, this is still the most common question asked of Catherine Ryan Hyde, bestselling and critically acclaimed author of 20 published and forthcoming books, including Don't Let Me Go, When You Were Older, and Pay It Forward, the incredible bestselling novel that led to a movie, a foundation, and an entire social movement.
Everything Pay It Forward became is rooted in a small, but extraordinary act of kindness, which Catherine received as a young adult. It was one moment that caused her to look at life in a different way. It was a moment of pure, human inspiration.
In THE LONG STEEP PATH: EVERYDAY INSPIRATION FROM THE AUTHOR OF PAY IT FORWARD, Catherine shares her story, as well as what inspires her, in a series of funny and totally engaging autobiographical stories that are at once personal and universal.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 13, 2013
950 people are currently reading
553 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Ryan Hyde
72 books6,182 followersCatherine Ryan Hyde is the author of more than 50 published and forthcoming books.
She is co-author, with publishing industry blogger Anne R. Allen, of How to be a Writer in the E-Age: a Self-Help Guide.
Her bestselling 1999 novel Pay It Forward was made into a major Warner Brothers motion picture. It was chosen by the American Library Association for its Best Books for Young Adults list, and translated into more than two dozen languages for distribution in over 30 countries. Simon & Schuster released a special 15th anniversary edition in December of ’14.
Pay It Forward: Young Readers Edition, an age-appropriate edited edition of the original novel, was released by Simon & Schuster in August of ‘14. It is suitable for children as young as eight.
You can learn much more about Catherine at www.catherineryanhyde.com
She is co-author, with publishing industry blogger Anne R. Allen, of How to be a Writer in the E-Age: a Self-Help Guide.
Her bestselling 1999 novel Pay It Forward was made into a major Warner Brothers motion picture. It was chosen by the American Library Association for its Best Books for Young Adults list, and translated into more than two dozen languages for distribution in over 30 countries. Simon & Schuster released a special 15th anniversary edition in December of ’14.
Pay It Forward: Young Readers Edition, an age-appropriate edited edition of the original novel, was released by Simon & Schuster in August of ‘14. It is suitable for children as young as eight.
You can learn much more about Catherine at www.catherineryanhyde.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 19, 2017
I am flummoxed by some of the low-star reviews that I read on Amazon. "Seedy life"??? Seriously? That's what you got out of this?
This book is a collection of essays written to express the author's life lessons. Some were learned the hard way. Yes, like most of us, she went through some pretty rough times in order to get where she is now. So what? Does this give anyone the right to look down their nose at her? Is a person not allowed to grow and develop and change? Is a person not allowed to share what they've learned with others?
As a person who has had to learn some pretty hard lessons (like everybody else), I appreciate Hyde for putting into words some of the thoughts and feelings that I've had as I've traveled my own steep path. I'm thankful for finding out that she has a Facebook page (which I intend to bookmark), and a #DailyGratitude that I can subscribe to. I need all the help I can get in learning to master the art of positivity and gratitude. Thank you for listing this book for free on Kindle and allowing me to become aware. It came along at just the right time.
If you are on a journey of learning to love and accept and be at peace with yourself, this book might give you some inspiration on how to get there.
This book is a collection of essays written to express the author's life lessons. Some were learned the hard way. Yes, like most of us, she went through some pretty rough times in order to get where she is now. So what? Does this give anyone the right to look down their nose at her? Is a person not allowed to grow and develop and change? Is a person not allowed to share what they've learned with others?
As a person who has had to learn some pretty hard lessons (like everybody else), I appreciate Hyde for putting into words some of the thoughts and feelings that I've had as I've traveled my own steep path. I'm thankful for finding out that she has a Facebook page (which I intend to bookmark), and a #DailyGratitude that I can subscribe to. I need all the help I can get in learning to master the art of positivity and gratitude. Thank you for listing this book for free on Kindle and allowing me to become aware. It came along at just the right time.
If you are on a journey of learning to love and accept and be at peace with yourself, this book might give you some inspiration on how to get there.
January 28, 2016
$4.99
Even though this book is by one of my favorite authors, it is one I normally wouldn't have chosen because essays are not usually what I like to read. However Better World Books came out with a unique reading challenge that listed a number of different ideas for books to read during 2016, and one of them was a book on essays. Always up for a challenge, I thought I would tackle it – the reading challenge that is. I'm so glad I did, at least regarding this book.
Since I follow Catherine Ryan Hyde here, on Twitter, and Facebook, I feel like I "know" her a little bit. She is very open with her readers and never forgets us. In reading these essays, I felt like I was getting to "know" her a little more and after reading about the Pentagon Brain, this was exactly what I needed.
She has a unique writing style that is simplistic, and I don't mean that in a bad way, but easy to understand just as if we were having a conversation and sharing ideas over coffee. I don't have a bucket list per se, but if the latter could ever come true I would be thrilled beyond words.
Even though this book is by one of my favorite authors, it is one I normally wouldn't have chosen because essays are not usually what I like to read. However Better World Books came out with a unique reading challenge that listed a number of different ideas for books to read during 2016, and one of them was a book on essays. Always up for a challenge, I thought I would tackle it – the reading challenge that is. I'm so glad I did, at least regarding this book.
Since I follow Catherine Ryan Hyde here, on Twitter, and Facebook, I feel like I "know" her a little bit. She is very open with her readers and never forgets us. In reading these essays, I felt like I was getting to "know" her a little more and after reading about the Pentagon Brain, this was exactly what I needed.
She has a unique writing style that is simplistic, and I don't mean that in a bad way, but easy to understand just as if we were having a conversation and sharing ideas over coffee. I don't have a bucket list per se, but if the latter could ever come true I would be thrilled beyond words.
December 11, 2017
This is a book of stops and starts. I would read a couple of essays and then think on the nuggets of truth she discovered before picking it back up. Hyde’s honesty and self reflection was inspiring in itself and this is one I will return to for future wisdom and inspiration
November 16, 2013
Absolutely love this book and go back and read it at least once a year. It's an amazing story of following your bliss, overcoming struggle and how one single act can change the world. I can't state enough how inspiring I find this book!
October 18, 2021
This is an autobiographical collection of essays by one of my favorite authors. Having read easily a dozen of her fictional works, I was quite surprised by the person she revealed herself to be in this book. I pictured her as someone who “has it all together.” And she does, but it was not always that way. She had to battle through addictions to drugs and alcohol before becoming the wonderful person she now is, the one capable of writing so many inspirational novels.
This is a quick read, one I finished in barely over one day. It is not a comprehensive autobiography. Rather, it is tips on how to live a better, happier life.
Many of the stories revolve around her passion for hiking and her love for her dogs, subjects that don’t resonate personally with me. But CRH is such a great writer, though her humility also comes through in the words of this book.
This is a quick read, one I finished in barely over one day. It is not a comprehensive autobiography. Rather, it is tips on how to live a better, happier life.
Many of the stories revolve around her passion for hiking and her love for her dogs, subjects that don’t resonate personally with me. But CRH is such a great writer, though her humility also comes through in the words of this book.
December 4, 2018
Having thoroughly enjoyed her books it was interesting to hear the author read stories from her life. Most of them related to hiking (which I love but haven't gotten to do hardly at all). The story that most grabbed me was her account of being stalked by two coyotes who wanted her dog.
(Note: I'm stingy with stars. For me 2 stars means a good book or a B. 3 = Very good or a B+; 4 = Outstanding or an A {only about 5% of the books I read merit this}; 5 = All time favorites or an A+ {one of these may come along every 400-500 books})
(Note: I'm stingy with stars. For me 2 stars means a good book or a B. 3 = Very good or a B+; 4 = Outstanding or an A {only about 5% of the books I read merit this}; 5 = All time favorites or an A+ {one of these may come along every 400-500 books})
September 27, 2020
Aim high but know your limits....Be good to others; it’s not always about you...Live simply...Believe in yourself...Be grateful, even for the simplest of things.
These are just a few of the nuggets of timeless life lessons in this inspirational book.
If you think about it, these are life lessons we were taught when we were small children. Yet, don’t we all need a lifetime refresher? Life lessons are best learned from people who’ve had first hand experiences. If you’ve read most of this author’s book, it is not difficult to take her word and inspiration for yourself.
These are just a few of the nuggets of timeless life lessons in this inspirational book.
If you think about it, these are life lessons we were taught when we were small children. Yet, don’t we all need a lifetime refresher? Life lessons are best learned from people who’ve had first hand experiences. If you’ve read most of this author’s book, it is not difficult to take her word and inspiration for yourself.
May 2, 2021
A beautiful collection of thoughts from Catherine Ryan Hyde. Life-affirming, uplifting and encouraging, these true stories of challenge, overcoming adversity, addiction, living in the moment, are a wonderful read. Turning weakness into strength is a talent not always attainable. Catherine reminds us to look inside ourselves to find our real self, to take one step at a time, to stop and smell the roses. Loved the story about driving to the speed limit! One of my favourites in this memorable collection. Brava! Catherine.
July 30, 2019
Having read two novels by the author, I was interested in hearing her thoughts about life and the experiences that she'd had. She shares these with honesty and wit that makes for a entertaining read and a encouraging nudge of good advice if it suits the reader. No pushing or judging, but just offering us the stories of how she came to see things, and these are great stories. She has included some dynamite photos as well.
January 23, 2020
I have loved almost everything by Catherine Ryan Hyde, her warm books unwrap humanity in all its messiness, hope, failure and triumph. This is book is a series f personal essays. They are interesting and even inspiring. But many of the lessons are ones she has revealed in story form to much better effect.
February 20, 2022
Autobiograghical memoirs
It was nice to read memoirs that have shaped this author into the great one she is.Life cant be truly enjoyed by rushing through each day thankful to climb back in bed when we finish it.Its meant to be enjoyed one moment at a time, one day and one memory made to share.
It was nice to read memoirs that have shaped this author into the great one she is.Life cant be truly enjoyed by rushing through each day thankful to climb back in bed when we finish it.Its meant to be enjoyed one moment at a time, one day and one memory made to share.
August 9, 2019
A different kind of book
This book is composed of many short stories or memories of the author's. It is not like a novel, but it is a thought provoking collection of the type of experiences Ms. Hyde uses to create her novels. Worth reading.
This book is composed of many short stories or memories of the author's. It is not like a novel, but it is a thought provoking collection of the type of experiences Ms. Hyde uses to create her novels. Worth reading.
August 19, 2020
Good read, as usual.
It was good to see inside the author's being. I can see how how she knows to make her stories so insightful. She has lived it to a large extent, and has been willing to learn from those she has encountered. Love her books.
It was good to see inside the author's being. I can see how how she knows to make her stories so insightful. She has lived it to a large extent, and has been willing to learn from those she has encountered. Love her books.
September 15, 2021
Much needed reminder
This has been a tough year. I’m not sure I realized how I needed a reminder to be grateful, take time and just be. This book was the perfect nudge to get me back on track.
This has been a tough year. I’m not sure I realized how I needed a reminder to be grateful, take time and just be. This book was the perfect nudge to get me back on track.
August 23, 2025
No idea why it took me so long to listen to this book. Catherine narrates it. One of my top five favorite authors.. what a wonderful glimpse into the behind the scenes of her life and passions and writing.
December 23, 2025
this is my 29th CRH book and the first non-fiction . Wonderful and insightful stories that explain her DNA and explained how she evolved into a successful author. I admire her even more after reading these essays . Thank You CRH for sharing your thoughts with us.
January 15, 2026
The Wisdom of Experience
We all encounter the difficulties of life, but learning from them is optional.
The authors perspective on experiences may help readers to see their own differently and gain insights for going forward.
We all encounter the difficulties of life, but learning from them is optional.
The authors perspective on experiences may help readers to see their own differently and gain insights for going forward.
November 23, 2018
Great stuff
This gives you a glimpse into the life and thoughts of author Catherine Ryan Hyde. It is really good stuff. It made me wish I was her neighbor.
This gives you a glimpse into the life and thoughts of author Catherine Ryan Hyde. It is really good stuff. It made me wish I was her neighbor.
April 20, 2020
Must Read
Recommended for anyone with questions about life and how it should be lived. Her books touch your and on a personal note.
Recommended for anyone with questions about life and how it should be lived. Her books touch your and on a personal note.
May 5, 2020
A great book for our altered times. Thank you Catherine Ryan Hyde.
February 23, 2021
Excellent book for anyone who likes traveling in the USA. I enjoyed going back to places I visited years ago.
August 30, 2021
Read more of Catherine's books, particularly this one if you are fond of hiking or not drinking (she is a member of AA).
September 19, 2021
Just keeping it real
The author does a great job of keeping the reader engaged while keeping it real. Very relateable and appreciated. Thanks.
The author does a great job of keeping the reader engaged while keeping it real. Very relateable and appreciated. Thanks.
October 12, 2021
great little book of essays that make you think
May 27, 2022
A very nice read about Catherine Ryan Hydes journeys in life and lessons learned along the way.
January 3, 2024
I like anything by this woman, I agree with much of what she says in these personal essays and I appreciated the small glimpses into her personal and artistic life.
You should read it.
You should read it.
December 17, 2025
Really do not care for her short stories
March 9, 2019
Enjoyed the positivity of this book.
February 19, 2017
Fun to learn more about one of my favorite authors and her experiences and solid wisdom for every day life.
June 13, 2022
I’ve been going back and re-reading books I previously enjoyed. I’ve hit a bump in the road where I have bought some books recently that I really didn’t like and did not finish. So disappointing. I decided to go back to a few books I really liked and that had stayed with me. I read this book in 2020 and just read it again in June 2022. Catherine Ryan Hyde writes about her life, her philosophy of life, hikes, travels, what she’s learned, how she’s grown and much more. She is open and honest about many aspects of her life –drugs, alcohol, being broke, unemployed, family squabbles, rejection, etc. Uplifting topics address accepting what is, spending time in solitude and believing in yourself. The book reads like a string of short stories. I really enjoyed re-reading this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews