Haven't read the book, but thought I would respond to the questions about where Ryback is now. I understand Eric Ryback of Lindner mutual fund fame (he is considered to be one of the great investors -- though not as visible as Buffett or Lynch) used to be an accomplished backpacker when he was younger. Is this the same Ryback? If so, he's been busy the last few decades making people money.

I read this book in 1973 when only a few years older than the author. It was a great story of grit and determination of a youth in early manhood who had not yet found his way in life. In a mere 131 days and 2,500 miles of hiking alone Eric became a man experiencing physical, emotional and mental extremes.

Now 30 years later even with the passage of time, it still makes a good, easy, but inspiring read of an adventure that with current technology (cellular phones especially) could not be repeated. But why did Eric not take gloves!!!!!!

Finally, if Eric is still out there, he should write a biography or let me know in a quick few lines if life has treated him well.

i think it was an awesome book i do not read to many books cause they bor me im only 15 and i love your book how you froze your feet in the snow but you did not let it stop you from pushing forward and the determination you must uf had to climb across those snow fields i think you are a great role moddle for anyone and espesialy all those hickers that want to do it but dont think they can but they try i thank you for your time you are unbelievably the most determined man on this earth.

Like Eric's first book, this book is definitly a journey to read about. Easy to read, excellent flow, a hard book to put down once you pick it up! Again, highly recommended reading for teens on but especially teens who need an inspirational boost.

This book was pivotal in inspiring me to become a backpacker and mountaineer; I hadn't remembered much of the story - it was my summer read at 4-H camp in the 70s! After reacquiring the book, I was sad to discover how much of it is a primer on how NOT to go hiking in the winter! Technological advances have made Mr. Ryback's clothing and gear choices charmingly antiquated, but his dangerous lack of preparation and forethought in many situations overshadow what the book strives to say about his personal experience in nature.

This story was extremely vivid and detailed. It is very well written and was inspired. It told of both the good and the bad of his challenging adventure

This book inspired me to take up a pack in my teen years and hit the trail. Though it is out of print, you can find used copies through Amazon. It is very well written and flows very well from chapter to chapter. There is some who dispute Eric's claim of the first to solo the PCT. I tend to believe he truly earned the right to say he was the first solo hiker. This is a good book for all ages but I highly recommend it to teens who need some inspiration in their life!