It seems like the only two things a poor man can afford to do is work and drink. However, Jordan Bearss, a young drunk and crass carpenter, manages to find a third to walk, and walk, like, really, really far. With nothing else to lose and no survival training whatsoever, he heads off into the wild while attempting to cross the entire East Coast on foot using the Appalachian and Florida Trails. Comically and tragically he finds out that for better or for worse there is so much he doesn't know about hiking, people, and life itself, but with the help of a colorful cast of new friends Jordan manages to persist, finding his way along the trail, and along the way, find himself.
Many spelling errors but most annoying was frequent use of "bazaar" in place of "bizarre" . Really? Other than that a fun read about a young man gaining maturity.
I loved this true story of one man's journey to discover himself and along the way, finds compassionate, kind and caring people that help him to look at the world in a positive manner. The author writes with a lively and intelligent voice, and I found myself drawn into his ambitious undertaking, cheering him on in his struggles, rejoicing in his many successes. This is a well-written memoir, but lacks the finishing touches of proofreading. Otherwise, I would have given it 5 stars. Congratulations Jordan Bearss! You have much to be proud of!
This is a wonderfully written story, not just in description, but in depth of spirit. This young man writes with such heart and enthusiasm, you can feel the reverence he has when he reaches a viewpoint. He is honest about his shortcomings and draws you in to rejoice with him as he triumphs over his soul-crushing failures in life. This is a winner, I cannot imagine anyone being disappointed with this book.
This story ended being a very nice surprise. I started reading with no preconceived ideas and was quickly pulled into the writing style. I can see Jordan being the type of person who always finds friends everywhere he goes, whether on the trail or in town, as a non-hiker.
The fact that he starts out on the Florida Trail and then links to the AT is a nice plus to the typical hiker memoir.
Jordan Bearss' book stands out in the galaxy of Appalachian Trail stories because of his habit of gratitude for alle the and experiences he encounters. He has a chronically open heart to what the trail has to offer, from the people he meets along the way to the vistas he stops to appreciate. In addition, he starts his adventure by walking the Florida Trail, a trip I've never encountered in another trail memoir.
I have read many of these hiking stories. Gizmos honest account made me realize anew how that each hikers story teaches and educates us about life even though the same miles are hiked on the AT or CDT or PCT. This would be a good book to pass on to those that don't know what path to take after college or high school or the military.
This is truly one of the very best books of all thru hikers. I had been warned it had many grammar errors but it soon became no issue. This writer is honest, he does not boast, he loves nature and is in awe of it in child-like honesty. No ego. Thank you, Jordan. I love your style.