Bliss(ters) by Gail M. Francis

This is the story of how one woman hiked from Mexico to Canada, on the Pacific Crest Trail. I enjoyed this self-published book because it is well-written and has little pull-out sections that teach you practical things you need to know if you choose to do this thru-hike. Some examples of the pull outs:

• HYOH - Hike Your Own Hike
• Typical Contents of Traditional vs. Ultralight Packs
• Trailnames
• Typical Food
• Gear Changes at Idyllwild
• Using Toilet Paper When There's No Toilet
• Foot Care

Francis does a beautiful job describing the scenery she hikes and the interesting people she meets. It was enjoyable to travel with her during her resupply stops, during a rainstorm, or climbing a summit. It's much more upbeat and less introspective than Wild. It was interesting to learn about the culture that exists among thru-hikers and the way they enjoy Trail Magic and Trail Angels. And hitchhiking and food foraging...many common themes here from the other hiking books I've read. A good, solid read, especially when she hooks up with her Norwegian friend Knut...