Here is the synopsis from Goodreads:
At twenty-two, Cheryl Strayed thought she had lost everything. In the wake of her mother’s death, her family scattered and her own marriage was soon destroyed. Four years later, with nothing more to lose, she made the most impulsive decision of her life. With no experience or training, driven only by blind will, she would hike more than a thousand miles of the Pacific Crest Trail from the Mojave Desert through California and Oregon to Washington State — and she would do it alone. Told with suspense and style, sparkling with warmth and humor, Wild powerfully captures the terrors and pleasures of one young woman forging ahead against all odds on a journey that maddened, strengthened, and ultimately healed her.
I won't lie, I had to really push through the first few chapters of this book. However, once I made it about 75 pages or so in, it really took hold and began to resonate with me. Initially, I didn't care for the flashback writing style that Cheryl used, but over the course of the book it actually grew on me. It was nice to be able to escape the trail for a look back on her life before this epic adventure began from time to time even though I did prefer the stories and people of the trail.
I have no interest whatsoever in packing up and going on a several month long hiking adventure, but I certain could relate to Cheryl's need for escape from her current world. It is truly refreshing (no matter how scary it might seem) to get out of your comfort zone especially when life has you stuck in a predictable or unhealthy rut. I admire her for striking out on this journey. And I absolutely loved the way her book ending with a look ahead to the life that awaited her, but in a unique and fitting manner. I highly suggest reading this book!
On the other hand, I recommend skipping the movie. I didn't really like it at all. Not only did it not really match up with the book in several ways, but it also just simply wasn't interesting. The book FAR outshines the movie.
Have you read this one? Seen the movie? What did you think?
Andrea :)
I loved this book, so that's really disappointing to hear that the movie didn't live up to it. Guess I won't waste my money! I agree with you, it was hard to get into, but once she was on the trail it was like a car wreck that I couldn't look away from. She was just so unprepared, and I was continually amazed that she kept going. I don't know that I could do the same!
ReplyDeleteLove your review, Andrea! Totally agree about the book - it took me awhile to get into it and for Cheryl's story to resonate. But I really liked how the story progressed and reading about her adventures on the trail. :)
ReplyDeleteThat's such a bummer that you didn't like the movie. I haven't seen it and I really wanted to see Reese Witherspoon in that role, since it's different from what she normally plays. But I feel like we have the same tastes, so I'll skip it. :)