Review Detail

Do you love hiking? Do you want to share the joy of that experience with young children? This is the book to pick up. Following a family of four as they hit the trails, this book gives a good overview of how to prepare for hikes and to stay safe while out in the wilderness. There's a note at the beginning that only one member of the family does the right thing; the other three serve as examples to avoid throughout the book.

Many topics are covered, but they all are shown with explanations of the proper ways to do things along with the pictures of the family members over packing, under dressing, etc. There are helpful pictures to show exactly what should be packed, for example. I love the reminder that it's good to make a list so you don't forget key elements of your pack. There is even a diagram showing the best way to stow things away, and helpful examples of the kinds of clothes to wear "like an onion".

In addition, there are sections on how to act in the wilderness so that nature is protected, water safety tips, guides on what to eat for optimal energy. There's brief information about how to treat injuries, along with what to include in a first aid kit. Guidelines for finding ones way are included, with insets on how to read a compass. There's even a good overview of how to set up a tent, including details such as where to stow hiking poles.