The Great Divide

Reflecting on his journey along the nation's spine, Pern remarks that the route showed him more of a continent than a country. He started his walk at Antelope Wells, N.Mex.; five-and-a-half months later, he crossed into Canada from Glacier National Park with more than 2500 miles behind him. Pern (The Beach of Morning) recounts his adventures in low-key fashion. There were few life-threatening episodes, though he did confront a grizzly bear, tumbled off a cliff and shivered through scary electrical storms. He reminds us that the Continental Divide is a geographic feature, not an established trail; hikers must choose their own routes through the rugged terrain. Pern is at his most entertaining when he describes his encounters with the quaint but friendly natives; this Englishman doesn't understand Americans although he likes them. His lighthearted approach to serious walking and his interest in the natural world will attract readers who enjoy the outdoorsactively or vicariously. (June)