The Unlikely Thru-Hiker by Derick Lugo

 I was sold on the hype on this one, on Amazon, and I was between book club books, so I went for it. The purchase supports the AT, so it also felt like a good cause.

I love hiking books! Obviously. This one was lighter than most, and enjoyable. The perspective of being the only black hiker on the trail was a novel one. He was also a true novice, non-hiker, who succeeded in finishing the hike. These are commendable. He focuses more on his fellow hikers than on any of his own injuries or struggles. Maybe he didn't have too many? He described some challenges, but he doesn't dwell on them like many other author-hikers do.

One thing that struck me was how well he described the through-hiker culture. He was willing to step off the trail to attend some hiker celebrations that were held along the way, and it reminded me of exactly what Eli has described to me as Burning Man culture. You barter, you trade, you give away, you accept, you love, you don't judge, you help others along their way.

He does have some moments of appreciating the profound beauty around him, but that isn't his focus. As a New Yorker, his appreciation of the outdoors is child-like and charming. Lugo is a part-time comedian, and always takes a light and comedic tone in his interactions with others. He's also relentlessly positive, and earned his trail name of "Mr. Fabulous." It's not great writing or great humor, but it is a fresh and enjoyable read.