It is not surprising that an enterprise as monumental as a 2,190-mile hiking trail would be fraught with challenges: conceptual, physical, political, and financial. Blend in strong personalities, deeply held beliefs, and competing interests, and you’ve got yourself quite a story. Jeffrey Ryan has written a tightly researched, well-crafted book that will interest both hiking enthusiasts and history buffs, while also satisfying readers who like their sagas spicy and their heroes flawed. Read more…