Monday, June 3, 2019

Book Review: When You Find My Body by Dee Dauphinee

The narrative of a lone hiker, Geraldine Largay, who somehow lost her way on the Appalachian Trail was throughly researched and gave voice to the right people. It is a harrowing experience to lose someone in the woods or to be lost oneself. The author gave tips to help people who may wish to experience nature in this way to stay safe. This well-written narrative includes the history of hiking the AT as well as experiences of others who have hiked it. It seems impossible that a series of events that, on their own, would not seem to be at all alarming had complicated the hike of an obviously intelligent and caring person. It is a cautionary tale, certainly. It is also the story of volunteers and rescuers who did not want to give up the search for Gerry, and how the ultimate failure to find her affected so many people in her life, not only her friends and family, but also those who were involved in trying to locate her. This title would be a great addition to a high school library.