Click Here To Purchase From Amazon A Walk for Sunshine (a 2,160 mile expedition for charity on the Appalachian Trail)

Author: Jeff Alt

Publisher: Dreams Shared Publications

ISBN: 978-0-9679482-2-5

Jeff’s brother, Aaron, was born with cerebral palsy and mental retardation which means he relies on a wheelchair and the care of communities and volunteers at Sunshine House. Jeff decided he would make a difference and do the Appalachian Trail, a 2,160 mile trek through woodlands and up mountains, for charity. All money would go to the Sunshine House to help others who were disabled and mentally retarded. And so began Jeff’s 2,160 mile journey in honour of his brother.

Each year more than 2,000 hikers attempt the Appalachian Trail to see if they have the fitness, strength and determination to carry it out and complete the trek. Out of these people only 10 percent actually end up completing the journey. This was certainly one thing that went through Jeff’s mind as he set off armed with a heavy back-pack, data book, a map, and a section of the trusty The Thru-Hiker’s Handbook. Would he complete his ambition? Was there shelter along the way? Would he have to camp it out in a tent alone in the gloomy woods?

Throughout his journey, Jeff meets friends, enemies and creatures who all in their own way, give him strength to live his dream. From a skunk, best friend Brian’s dog Enya, and even a psycho who inhabits the trail, Jeff has some encounters he will always remember. 

Sore feet with blisters, aching back and insect bitten body Jeff refused to give in to the many afflictions which occur with living outside. He completed his mission in aid of charity with new friends and the trail name that he was known as, “Wrongfoot”.

I loved this hiking book. Jeff certainly has a writing style that should appeal to everyone. We learn with him as he hikes for honour. There are also many amusing chapters that had me laughing out loud. I loved “Strange Bedfellows” where the skunk-in-question falls asleep nestled between the author’s feet! How wonderful to be at one with nature.

The author has included some photographs of his journey too.

We have one excellent photo of Katahdin in Maine and another of Jeff’s tired feet after walking 2,000 miles. Quite a sight. Also a touching snapshot of Jeff with his brother after completing the hike. This is certainly a collection of snaps that illustrates what a great outdoor spirit and positive attitude Jeff had throughout his trial.

 Read this book and I can guarantee you’ll have lots of laughs, smiles and at the end be inspired to perhaps do your own walk for Sunshine.

The above review was contributed by:  Jessica Roberts: Jessica has been a book reviewer for a newspaper and a national women's magazine and is working on a novel. To read more of Jessica's reviews CLICK HERE 

Click Here To Purchase From Amazon A Walk for Sunshine (a 2,160 mile expedition for charity on the Appalachian Trail)