Sarah Holt Post 2

Providing the reader with the background information helps set the stage for the whole book. In the beginning chapters Bryson explains, in depth, the length and history of the trail. Throughout the whole novel, little tidbits of history are thrown in. As we read the novel, we are getting a history lesson of some National Parks.

The history of the National Parks Bryson describes in chapter 8 shows how much the trails have changed over the years. National Parks, such as The Great Smokey Mountains National Park in Gatlinburg, have changed significantly. Bryson discusses the way the parks now have gift shops and food supplies right out side the mountains. The area outside of the mountains has grown to become more popular than the mountains themselves. The way Bryson and Katz are hiking (checking into motels, eating burgers, etc.) is completely different than the way “true hiking” used to be. Without all the restaurants and shops outside, Bryson and Katz would have to feed themselves for another night.

These facts show how the world and the people living in it have grown up over the years. The way America has built to fit the wants and needs of Americans has changed significantly. Its fun to read the histories and wonder what life would be like if the world hadn’t grown so drastically.