In "A Walk in the Woods," Bill Bryson shares harrowing anecdotes about hikers who venture into the wilderness with optimism, only to encounter life-threatening situations. He describes a pattern where people embark on the Appalachian Trail excitedly, only to return battered and traumatized, often with alarming injuries or unsettling experiences. These stories highlight the unpredictability and dangers of nature, casting a shadow over the allure of adventure.
The vivid imagery of...