Wild (2012) by Cheryl Strayed

The Gist:

Wild by Cheryl Strayed is an inspiring memoir about how she found enlightenment while hiking 1,100 miles on the Pacific Crest Trail on a journey of self-discovery after losing her mother to cancer.

The Review:

Wild is such an inspiring and enlightening book. The few days that I spent reading this book from cover to cover has become one of the few memorable days of my life; because within the 315 pages of this book, I felt like I’ve hiked the Pacific Crest Trail too (with Cheryl Strayed).

Despite the loud depiction of the canvas of this book that would lead most people to think that this might just be one of those ‘cliched stories about finding enlightenment’, this book actually carries a very profound meaning that is infused between the lines in such an elegant manner. The thing about Cheryl’s journey is that it wasn’t about arriving at an epiphany but finding enlightenment along the way. It is not in understanding the meaning of the words that will lead the readers to see the sentiments of the book, but it is in feeling – in putting yourself in Cheryl’s shoes and walking the same 1100 miles in it through her words- that will allow one to penetrate through the multiple layers intensity of the book.

Upon finishing the last few words of the book, I wished there was more, not because the plot is great but because I was overwhelmed with so much emotions that I wish it I could read on to find a closure for myself.

The way the book was written in is also very impressive because any book-lover would know that a good story isn’t enough, it requires good manipulation of the plot and words. In Wild, Cheryl Strayed has definitely proved her worth as a quality author. The flow of the story is brilliant, especially at the very start of it. The first chapter of the book was enough to put me to tears. The vivid description of her past memories are so real and detailed that it was as if we all shared the same memory. Also, along the book, the way scenes of flashbacks are inserted into the journal of the hike is also a very smart way of capturing the attention of the readers, in case the accounts of the hike itself gets too boring.

Although at some point, I think it’s a tad bit overdone as some lines or incidences were repeated one too many times throughout the book. Anyway, those are just small issues that shouldn’t distract you from the greater good of the book.

Besides all that, one should also note that this book has a great sense of humour. Some of Cheryl’s thoughts are so funny that I sometimes burst out laughing while reading.

The Verdict:

Despite the fact that Cheryl struggled with her mother’s optimism while fighting cancer in her last days, Cheryl ironically showed the same optimism while hiking 1100 miles on the Pacific Crest Trail. This ironic, funny, witty, and yet inspiring book is a must read for all groups! …and it is probably one of the best reads that I’ve had in a while.

Wild is also an Oscar nominated movie starring Reese Witherspoon.  Read our review.

Published: March 20, 2012

Publisher: Knopf