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The Things You Find on the Appalachian Trail: A Memoir of Discovery, Endurance and a Lazy Dog
This upbeat nitty-gritty memoir, based on the author's 2001 trail journal, chronicles one man's hike the whole length of the Appalachian Trail, beginning just north of Atlanta and finishing six months later in Maine. The journey included adventures with a faithful and eccentric dog, a new romance, and the challenges and triumphs of walking 2167 miles in all kinds of weather.
228 pages, Paperback
First published January 27, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
April 30, 2022
Best Book on Appalachian Trail
A storm is coming in this evening, so I thought I should review this book before that happens since we can lose electricity. I am almost finished with this marvelous book. What a find this was, and I know not who on GR to thank for it. I would give it ten stars if I could.
Kevin, an ex-Marine who is newly divorced decides to hike the trail with his dog Rufus. He is in for the long hawl, but Rufus is not. Rufus is afraid of everything: cows, lightning, water, stiles, rain, thunder which always accompanies lightning, and you name it. We had a dog like this, and I would not have thought to take her on the Trail. We almost feared taking her anywhere, but she learned on her own that the car was a safe haven. She once saw a buffalo behind a fence and headed for the car. I used to take her to a nearby park, and she heard some kid slapping his skateboard on the sidewalk and took off running for home. I yelled, “Mocha, want to go home?” and she turned around and came to the car. My husband said that she was untrustworthy. That she was, and so was Rufus. I could have warned Kevin to not tie Rufus to his backpack and walk away to get water from a river. Now, what happened was comical.
In fact, Kevin was natural at comedy. He was a very witty guy and lovable. And speaking of love, he met a woman on the Trail, and they fell in love. He also met a lot of other lovable people and was very social. They even spent time in the towns near the Trail and spent the night, ate in restaurants, and met many wonderful people. I felt like I was there with them all and wish I had been, except:
It rained a lot. And I mean a lot. It was cold. Then it was hot and humid. He had been through the seasons. He had been through the wringer. Drudgery. Hunger. Thirst. Poisonous snakes. Mad cow, or was it a bull or a steer? I used to want to hike the Trail, but even if I were young, I am not sure.
I wish to thank Kevin for this wonderful book. It may not be a Bill Bryson book, but you know what? That is because it is better. And now, after I have finished this book, I will feel let down. I will wonder where I am going to find my next great adventure.
A storm is coming in this evening, so I thought I should review this book before that happens since we can lose electricity. I am almost finished with this marvelous book. What a find this was, and I know not who on GR to thank for it. I would give it ten stars if I could.
Kevin, an ex-Marine who is newly divorced decides to hike the trail with his dog Rufus. He is in for the long hawl, but Rufus is not. Rufus is afraid of everything: cows, lightning, water, stiles, rain, thunder which always accompanies lightning, and you name it. We had a dog like this, and I would not have thought to take her on the Trail. We almost feared taking her anywhere, but she learned on her own that the car was a safe haven. She once saw a buffalo behind a fence and headed for the car. I used to take her to a nearby park, and she heard some kid slapping his skateboard on the sidewalk and took off running for home. I yelled, “Mocha, want to go home?” and she turned around and came to the car. My husband said that she was untrustworthy. That she was, and so was Rufus. I could have warned Kevin to not tie Rufus to his backpack and walk away to get water from a river. Now, what happened was comical.
In fact, Kevin was natural at comedy. He was a very witty guy and lovable. And speaking of love, he met a woman on the Trail, and they fell in love. He also met a lot of other lovable people and was very social. They even spent time in the towns near the Trail and spent the night, ate in restaurants, and met many wonderful people. I felt like I was there with them all and wish I had been, except:
It rained a lot. And I mean a lot. It was cold. Then it was hot and humid. He had been through the seasons. He had been through the wringer. Drudgery. Hunger. Thirst. Poisonous snakes. Mad cow, or was it a bull or a steer? I used to want to hike the Trail, but even if I were young, I am not sure.
I wish to thank Kevin for this wonderful book. It may not be a Bill Bryson book, but you know what? That is because it is better. And now, after I have finished this book, I will feel let down. I will wonder where I am going to find my next great adventure.
June 13, 2012
I enjoy reading adventure journals, because I can experience them vicariously if they are written well enough. I've read other AT journals, and this one is excellent. It's the first journal I'd read that included a dog as a companion, and you quickly realize that the AT experience for the author (Kevin) is different from what others record. He had a lot more patience with the dog than I would have! And then of course there are the colorful people he meets and the interesting plots that are intertwined during his journey north... including one of a potential love interest he meets on the trail. Overall, this is a well-written journal with some unique events that make it different from other AT journals. If you like reading about the AT, you should read this book.
January 16, 2021
I mean, I love all books about the Appalachian Trail, and I would read just about anything...which this book made plain. But it was horribly written, simplistic, and without any sense of depth or thought. In the last pages of the book, I was scanning to finish, and it even felt like Kevin himself was tired of writing about his own experience. Got through it, and still want to hike the Trail. That was worth an extra star.
August 2, 2017
The 2,167 miles of the Appalachian Trail from Springer Mountain, GA to Mt. Katahdin, ME are not easy. One endures high rocky peaks, strong winds, lots of rain, mosquitoes, black flies, and lack of water. The AT is not one trail but individual trails running through 14 states, each state or park with its idiosyncratic rules and unique natural elements. Despite the hardships of the trail, the one commonality for thru hikers has been the kindness of strangers, called Trail Angels, who appear when most needed offering food, water, or shelter.
What sets this book apart from other books about thru hiking the AT is the author’s endearing dog, Rufus. Part Shar Pei, part Chocolate Lab, Rufus is the antithesis of the perfect hiking companion. He’s described as a “lazy bundle of fear wrapped in fur” and is disinclined to hike. He hates the cold and the heat, the rain and the thunder. He has to be carried over stiles, and bridges, and fallen trees. During storms, Rufus cowers under the smallest plant and won’t budge, thinking he’s protected because a tiny fern is over his head. Rufus is a delight despite his flaws!
What sets this book apart from other books about thru hiking the AT is the author’s endearing dog, Rufus. Part Shar Pei, part Chocolate Lab, Rufus is the antithesis of the perfect hiking companion. He’s described as a “lazy bundle of fear wrapped in fur” and is disinclined to hike. He hates the cold and the heat, the rain and the thunder. He has to be carried over stiles, and bridges, and fallen trees. During storms, Rufus cowers under the smallest plant and won’t budge, thinking he’s protected because a tiny fern is over his head. Rufus is a delight despite his flaws!
October 20, 2019
A New Favorite Appalachian Trail book
I loved this book! It felt like I was hiking right there with the author! He's funny and a bit sarcastic. I didn't want it to end! I normally would not spend $8.00 on a kindle book but it was so worth it!
I loved this book! It felt like I was hiking right there with the author! He's funny and a bit sarcastic. I didn't want it to end! I normally would not spend $8.00 on a kindle book but it was so worth it!
December 9, 2012
I enjoy stories of people doing larger than life things, like hiking the AT, but I found the author to be a bit too childish and selfish to really warm up to his story. I felt sorry for his dog. :-(
June 25, 2018
I've become a bit obsessed with watching through-hike video bloggers on YouTube, and I read Bill Bryson's A WALK IN THE WOODS way back when it first came out, so I thought I'd give this book a try.
Using GOODREADS's own rating system, this book was "OK."
It gave me a lot of what I wanted: a first hand, diary-ish account of what it's like to hike the Appalachian Trail. I enjoyed the tidbits of hiking wisdom and anecdotes about trail experiences. What I didn't enjoy quite so much was the painful dialogue: nearly every time someone speaks, they use the other person's name... as if we might get confused as to which of (usually) two characters was saying what. The romance that blossoms on the trail between the author and "Phoenix," while surely real, doesn't come across as such in the writing.
To be fair, I don't believe the author is a professional wordsmith, so maybe some slack should be given. He did an interesting thing. He wanted to let others read about the interesting thing he did. He met those goals. I just wish it would have been a bit deeper and more reflective.
If you're looking for one man's narrative of hiking the AT, then you'll enjoy it. If you're looking for Bill Bryson-level wordplay, you'll be disappointed.
Using GOODREADS's own rating system, this book was "OK."
It gave me a lot of what I wanted: a first hand, diary-ish account of what it's like to hike the Appalachian Trail. I enjoyed the tidbits of hiking wisdom and anecdotes about trail experiences. What I didn't enjoy quite so much was the painful dialogue: nearly every time someone speaks, they use the other person's name... as if we might get confused as to which of (usually) two characters was saying what. The romance that blossoms on the trail between the author and "Phoenix," while surely real, doesn't come across as such in the writing.
To be fair, I don't believe the author is a professional wordsmith, so maybe some slack should be given. He did an interesting thing. He wanted to let others read about the interesting thing he did. He met those goals. I just wish it would have been a bit deeper and more reflective.
If you're looking for one man's narrative of hiking the AT, then you'll enjoy it. If you're looking for Bill Bryson-level wordplay, you'll be disappointed.
July 20, 2011
This is the 7th Appalachian Trail travel journal I've read and one of the best. The best trait is that he paces the book well, with several plot lines and informational items stretched through the book. Most books in this style tend to be chunky, with themes living and dying in a matter of pages and the first 2 chapters being a crash course in everything AT. Instead Kevin has some great themes throughout-- such as "boy and his dog", "man versus nature", "man trust/distrust of man", and, of course, "boy meets girl". He doesn't dwell on his personal demons, but explains them simply. And then he moves on to the positive and happy.
February 6, 2020
Even though the author’s hike was 20 years ago, it is an interesting read. Down to earth, well thought out prep for hike and logical hiking. His dog, Rufus, part chocolate lab/part shar-pei, is lovable and makes a wonderful addition to the story.
November 6, 2012
Very interesting book. Read it in less than two days. Looking forward to, in the future, attempt what the author accomplished.
July 10, 2016
I loved this book! I couldn't put it down. Rufus kept me laughing and I even got a little teary-eyed at the end.
March 8, 2013
I LOVED this book! I didn't want it to end. Highly recommended!
March 24, 2019
The author opened up his adventure to us and gave us some insight into his adventure, his dog, his dog and his relationships. He expressed a youthful vigor and approach, which was quite humorous. At times I laughed out loud at some of the experiences, and also had a deep respect for the assistance he gave to other people and his acts of assertiveness. As it is with any adventure, they inevitably end, and it was a little sad to end reading this wonderful story. Given that the author exposed his inner thoughts so clearly in the book, I was disappointed that he did not fill in the gaps in the epilogue to bring us up to speed with where he was at the time of writing the book. I wanted to know about Rufus, I wanted to know more about him and Teresa. I wanted to know more about how this adventure helped shape the direction of his life and career. I wanted to know why he waited 9 years to publish this book. I would have liked to see a more recent picture. It was just hard after feeling such a connection to have it end with an unsatisfactory resolution.
September 28, 2020
Great adventure and wonderful read.
I loved Bill Bryson's account of the AT and thought this would not have the same feel. It is different but just as delightful. I may have to hike some of the AT trail now but not the whole thing. Maybe being a trail Angel is something I could do. Whether you are hiking the AT or just want to get a feel for it, the book didn't disappoint. And the dog is just icing on the book. Thank you!
I loved Bill Bryson's account of the AT and thought this would not have the same feel. It is different but just as delightful. I may have to hike some of the AT trail now but not the whole thing. Maybe being a trail Angel is something I could do. Whether you are hiking the AT or just want to get a feel for it, the book didn't disappoint. And the dog is just icing on the book. Thank you!
September 30, 2021
One of the best AT books I have ever read!
I loved how Kevin wasn’t shy telling how they “cheated” here and there on the trail, not trying to make himself out to be macho. He was very real about the experiences they encountered, whether good or bad. And, on a side note, I loved following along with how the friendship with Teresa evolved into a love story. I would recommend this book to any young adult right up through “old” adults. I hated to see the book end.
I loved how Kevin wasn’t shy telling how they “cheated” here and there on the trail, not trying to make himself out to be macho. He was very real about the experiences they encountered, whether good or bad. And, on a side note, I loved following along with how the friendship with Teresa evolved into a love story. I would recommend this book to any young adult right up through “old” adults. I hated to see the book end.
July 3, 2023
I have always enjoyed hiking and being outside. I have done some hiking while visiting TN and North Carolina and have done some day hikes on the A.T. No way I could ever hike that far but I enjoy reading about peoples adventures. It’s book is one persons story the way they experienced it. I am glad he shared his adventure.
March 11, 2024
My second book on the Appalachian Trail this one had a fantastic ending ,I live in the 🇬🇧 and we have many beautiful places to walk ,but this book was special what a love story and Ruffus what a dog .I know it's been years since you did this and you will be missing him ,well sometimes hope you have had other dogs . Love to you both ❤️
June 18, 2025
I loved reading about Kevin's experiences on the Appalachian Trail. I have no desire to hike the entire trail, but I would love to hike portions of it. I would love to "unhook" from demands on life and just slow down and experience life on a slower. And, to experience what beauty America has to offer.
March 20, 2022
I was already sucked in when I saw this had a dog in the story. This is a great read about how a thru hiker and his beloved companion hike the AT. Also, there is a side story on how he meets his loving wife. I highly recommend this book.
March 4, 2024
Some laugh out loud moments but by the end I felt so bad for Rufus, the dog… also didn’t love the author’s several ‘girl talk’ comments throughout the book, in reference to his partner talking with her friends, may be just me but it just seemed condescending..
May 17, 2017
Down-to-earth, entertaining read.
May 19, 2018
My 17th Appalachian Trail book.
A wonderful read!! Clean and funny, while still feeling as being part of the hike! Much enjoyed the book!! Thank you!!
A wonderful read!! Clean and funny, while still feeling as being part of the hike! Much enjoyed the book!! Thank you!!
June 18, 2018
I’m pretty sure I am well on my way to reading almost every book about the AT. I enjoyed this book mostly because of the author’s dog, Rufus, the most reluctant thru hiker of all time.
April 29, 2019
Great read
Love books on trail hiking and what all it takes to do it from the start to finish. As expected this was also extremely educative. Kudos to those who do the whole trail.
Love books on trail hiking and what all it takes to do it from the start to finish. As expected this was also extremely educative. Kudos to those who do the whole trail.
November 23, 2020
Enlightening
I enjoyed reading this book. Only dream of hiking the AT, gives insight to the ups and downs of hiking.
I enjoyed reading this book. Only dream of hiking the AT, gives insight to the ups and downs of hiking.
February 4, 2021
Great book!!! Keeps you interested.
July 16, 2022
One of the best books that I have read about the trail. And this was my 7th.
September 22, 2022
Fun read
The author keeps it interesting, good story about a man working through a few issues of life and having good times.
The author keeps it interesting, good story about a man working through a few issues of life and having good times.
December 14, 2011
This was a fantastic book. I'm a memoir junkie, and there is nothing I love better than some ordinary joe (or in this case, Kevin) tell me about one of the coolest things in his life.
The story starts in Georgia at the base of the Appalachian trail, where Kevin will start the 2200 mile hike to Maine. He's an ex marine and a recently ex husband. In taking the time to figure out the next chapter of his life, his next chapter actually finds him.
"Fruit Pie" (his trail name) joins up with a whole host of real-life characters as he makes his trek with not-always-so-faithful canine companion, Rufus. It's comical at times, yet heart-warming, inspiring and eye-opening, as we the reader began to understand this enormous undertaking and all that it takes. Not everyone who joins in the trail is even aware of these things. All and all, it is an enjoyable tale.
I am so thankful for a chance to read this wonderful book - something that most probably would not have happened had I not had a Kindle!
The story starts in Georgia at the base of the Appalachian trail, where Kevin will start the 2200 mile hike to Maine. He's an ex marine and a recently ex husband. In taking the time to figure out the next chapter of his life, his next chapter actually finds him.
"Fruit Pie" (his trail name) joins up with a whole host of real-life characters as he makes his trek with not-always-so-faithful canine companion, Rufus. It's comical at times, yet heart-warming, inspiring and eye-opening, as we the reader began to understand this enormous undertaking and all that it takes. Not everyone who joins in the trail is even aware of these things. All and all, it is an enjoyable tale.
I am so thankful for a chance to read this wonderful book - something that most probably would not have happened had I not had a Kindle!
August 3, 2011
This is a fun read. The author shares his experience hiking over 2000 miles in 6 months - sometimes through grueling weather and/or terrain. He meets a number of great characters along the way, but the best character is Rufus the dog. The author does a great job writing everything except dialogue. It kind of gets in the way sometimes, but if you're willing to let that slide, it's a fun adventure to tag along on from the comfort of your easy chair.
I got this from Amazon for my Kindle a week ago for $3.99. Today it's $9.99 on Amazon. If there is a method to their pricing system, I sure don't know what it is.
I got this from Amazon for my Kindle a week ago for $3.99. Today it's $9.99 on Amazon. If there is a method to their pricing system, I sure don't know what it is.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews