I first read Bill Bryson’s book A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail over 10 years ago, and the truth is, I didn’t like it. However, in the wake of reading Scott Jurek’s book about setting the speed record on the AT, North, I thought Bryson’s book would be a nice complementary read.

If you’re interested in the Appalachian Trail or trail running, North is a must-read book. Of course, North is also the story of dreaming and living big, so whether you’re looking for inspiration to do your own AT thru-hike, or simply hike a smaller section of it, pick up North to feel the call of the trail.