In Beauty May She Walk: Hiking the Appalachian Trail At 60 by Leslie Mass
Many women have chronicled their thru-hikes on the 2000+-mile Appalachian Trail, but this is one of the most intriguing memoirs. Mass is nearly 60 when she sets out, following a dream she and her father shared. Through conditioning, perseverance, and daunting obstacles, she completes her trek, although it’s interrupted by the chaos of 9/11 (expected packages were held up in postal centers). Physical and mental demands tax anyone setting out on a long-distance hike, and she faces these issues head on. She interestingly notes the differences between hiking with men versus women; how the group dynamics and goals change. By “hiking her own hike”, Mass encourages others, especially women, to be strong, and face challenges. This book is inspirational to those thinking about a long-distance trek and for the armchair “thru-hiker”. Some readers have criticized it for having no photographs, yet Mass’ descriptions provide vivid imagery. I found myself hiking beside her, over New England’s craggy White Mountains, and along Virginia’s endless ridges…a rich, and wonderful tale.