Grandma Gatewood Hikes the Appalachian Trail is a wonderful summer book. It’s about a gutsy grandma who in 1955 decided she’d like to be the first woman to hike the Appalachian Trail. So she did!
The back matter explains that the 1955 hike was actually her second attempt–the first time she tried she got lost and realized she was unprepared. So she went home, trained, and tried again. But the main text of the book focuses on the day-to-day of hiking the trail. We see her battling weather and bugs and, once, a bear. But, with wonderful picture book pacing, we also get glimpses of the gorgeous scenery that inspired her to keep going.
Jennifer Thermes, the author-illustrator, is a map-maker, and the illustrations include six full-spread maps–one of the entire trail (on the front endpapers), and five of smaller sections of the trail. The back endpapers are an illustrated timeline.
This book could be part of a set about everyday women and girls breaking athletic barriers. I’d add in Girl Running (of course), Anybody’s Game, and Long-Armed Ludy.
It’s a book that will you want you to lace on your hiking boots and head it outside.
Grandma Gatewood Hikes the Appalachian Trail by Jennifer Thermes (Abrams: 2018).
Alyson Beecher hosts the Nonfiction Picture Book Challenge at kidlitfrenzy.com. Visit there for more great nonfiction picture books!
This sounds fantastic! I love books that show that it’s never too late to chase a dream or do something amazing – it’s all about being prepared, putting in the effort and believing in yourself!
It really does sound like an amazing accomplishment. I’ve heard of the book, but still have not read it. Thanks for the reminder, Annette.