Here’s an interesting list from a website called Bookride, which has compiled their selection of Backpacker Classics, or the best books to have in your pack when you’re out on the trail.
There are indeed some classic books of both fiction and non-fiction on their list. Things like On the Road by Jack Kerouac and Snow Leopard by Peter Mathiessen, both of which are well known adventure classics. Other popular works, such as One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest and Milton’s Paradise Lost earn a spot too, and the rest of the books are equally diverse and eclectic.
When defining what makes a good “backpacker classic” Bookride says they “should have an element of profundity, preferably mystical -if not it should have cult status or be a statement about who you really are.” Personally, I look for something entertaining, and in paperback form. Hardbacks taking up space and adding weight aren’t a lot of fun for your pack. But all in all, this is a good list that is difficult to argue with. Lots of classic books. But I have to argue with the inclusion of Catcher in the Rye, J.D. Salinger’s seminal novel. No one outside of a high school classroom should subject themselves to that one. 😉
Fun list. What did they miss? The one that stands out most to me is Into Thin Air. Thanks to Gregory Goes There, the official blog of Gregory Packs, for the link!
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Don't Panic?
Where is the Hitchhikers Guide To The Galaxy?
Sorry to brag about this book, but it has all elements you are looking for in a book when you backpack. Not to mention the friendly big letters on the cover.
Oh yeah! Great addition for the list, and I agree.
So long and thanks for all the fish! 🙂
Agree with "Into The Wild'. But I'd also take "The Climb" by Anatoli Boukreev along with it for comparison. 😉
I'd add "Walden" by Thoreau, and some Emerson too.
All great suggestions Flatlander. I like the way you think!
Is the link down, or is it just me?
Still working for me
Just finished reading Snow Leopard
fantastic…funny that you mention that one.
http://pinacoladakisses.blogspot.com/
It's a classic WT! 🙂 Glad you enjoyed it!
Oops! Meant "agree with Into Thin Air", but Into The Wild is also good. (My brain was Into The Dead Tired Zone when I first posted. 😉
(enjoyed Left For Dead by Beck Weathers too.)
What a cool list! Thanks for sharing.
Here is a list of the Top 100 Greatest Adventure Books of all time (according to National Geographic):
http://www.alastairhumphreys.com/2009/02/the-100-greatest-adventure-books-of-all-time/
Should keep us busy for a while!
Al
Nat Geo's list is another great one. My goal it so get all of the books on their list and this one on a Kindle. Than I can have all of them in my backpack at any time! 🙂