Susan Joy Paul

I think for a woman interested in but brand new to backpacking, mountaineering, or rock climbing camping, this is a very good introduction. Paul discusses almost everything you'd need to consider for those trips into the wild, and includes profiles and photos of women who are already living the wild life—empowering for any woman who might doubt her own capabilities.

For someone like me, who's done some reading and research already, Woman in the Wild wasn't really what I was looking for. Because Paul covers so much, she's forced to stay fairly general, and so my hopes for information on how to travel alone as a woman or strategies for staying ultra-light weren't really realized. Instead, Paul focuses on traveling in groups and recommends seeking ultra-light resources if her readers decide to go that route.

I had that experience several times whilst reading, actually: here's some basic information, if you need to know more, look for resources that address those specific interests. Which is essentially what I've been doing since deciding to get into backpacking in the first place...and why I picked up this book, hoping for yet more information to add to my patchwork quilt of knowledge.

If you're looking to feel empowered—if a little overwhelmed—Woman in the Wild is a good choice. But if you know you need specific training or information, you're probably better off seeking out those resources directly.… (mais)