I first read this book in 1974. Couldn't put it down till the last page, around 2:00 o'clock in the morning. Not only me, but my father too, stayed up till all hours. Once you start, you can't stop. Read it again for the third time March 21, 2008, and it still gave me goosebumps at certain parts. If you've ever taken long hikes, or back-packed into the wild, this is for you. And share it with your friends.