The Long Hike
The True Story of the First Appalachian Thru-Hike
$34.25
- Hardcover
48 pages
- Release Date
13 October 2026
Summary
Award-winning nonfiction creator Meghan McCarthy tells the “original, inspired account” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review) of Earl Shaffer, the first person to thru-hike all 2,000-plus miles of the Appalachian Trail in one hiking season in this empowering picture book.
While serving in World War II, Earl Shaffer lost his best friend in combat. After the war ended, he returned home and set off on a hiking adventure to walk off his troubles and find solace in the beauty and “power …
Book Details
| ISBN-13: | 9781665949941 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-10: | 1665949945 |
| Author: | Meghan McCarthy |
| Publisher: | Simon & Schuster |
| Imprint: | Beach Lane Books |
| Format: | Hardcover |
| Number of Pages: | 48 |
| Release Date: | 13 October 2026 |
| Weight: | 519g |
| Dimensions: | 13mm x 216mm x 292mm |
| Audience Age: | 4-8 |
You Can Find This Book In
Critics Review
- “Lace up those boots! An original, inspired account of a stalwart backpacker’s story sure to spur readers to take a hike.” – Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW
“This is a terrific book for talking about the Appalachian Trail and hiking, and about dealing with post-traumatic stress, setting goals, and persevering. An excellent addition to collections needing picture book biographies.” – School Library Journal
“This biography documents an impressive feat, though, particularly to modern thru-hiking minimalists, and should make a pleasant addition where stories about backcountry adventures and the healing power of nature circulate well. Pair this with Jennifer Thermes’ Grandma Gatewood Hikes the Appalachian Trail.” – Booklist
“McCarthy has spun another engaging nonfiction story with her signature acrylic art; cartoonish people and animals are juxtaposed with more realistic depictions of the natural setting. She incorporates brief entries from Earl’s journal as well as snippets of his poetry.” – The Horn Book
Meghan McCarthy
Meghan McCarthy is the award-winning author and illustrator of many books for children, including
- Earmuffs for Everyone!: How Chester Greenwood Became Known as the Inventor of Earmuffs
- Daredevil: The Daring Life of Betty Skelton
- Pop!: The Invention of Bubble Gum
- City Hawk: The Story of Pale Male
- Seabiscuit the Wonder Horse
- All That Trash
- Action!
A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, she lives in New York City.
Returns
This item is eligible for free returns within 30 days of delivery. See our returns policy for further details.