Customer Reviews

Right Foot in the Pacific, Left Foot in the Atlantic

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David Stoess is my uncle and reading his book was a complete joy for me. He was married to my aunt Nancy and this book brought back some wonderful memories of my childhood. I always knew David had a great sense of humor and it shows in the pages of this book. 'Tis an awesome adventure and one I think most people will enjoy!

David Stoess sprinkles this "journal" of his walk from Los Angeles to New York City with his sense of humor, unique and humanistic viewpoint, and his ability to accept the kindness of strangers. "It's been my experience that there's something about everyone that'll surprise you. ... If you don't reach out to other people you're going to miss a lot of motorcycle riding pharmacists." While the sun beats down on him and he is plagued with blisters from time to time, David cultivates a desire for the reader to experience life off the interstates. "If you feel moved to venture out, to go forth and experience the myriad of possibilities out there, don't be deterred by the doomsdayers and naysayers. ... Be overly cautious and you might live to be 90 and die in your sleep but what did you miss on your way to 90? So, go and enjoy."

This is the story of Stoess's walk across America from Los Angeles to New York City. He describes the physical difficulties of the trek but this book is primarily composed of sketches of the little towns, big cities (which he tried to avoid) and the people he encountered. He writes with a very conversational, folksy style that works well. This is probably not a book you would read from cover to cover, but it's a great book to pick up as the spirit moves you and read a couple of chapters. I enjoyed it very much.