The Elephant and I is a refreshing journey on Colorado’s most celebrated hiking trail. It is a captivating story that will be appreciated by both the seasoned outdoor enthusiast and beginning novice alike. The author’s character flaws and failures along with the glorious triumphs are presented in an honest retelling of the harsh realities of trail life. Through the course of seven weeks the friendship of two hikers survives the brutal test of the elements. The Elephant and I gives anyone even remotely interested in The Colorado Trail a close-up look into hiking, faith and friendship. This is not a philosophical ranting or an enlightening search to find his inner child—nothing of the sort. It is a practical, honest, sometimes funny account of a journey of a lifetime, with the friend of a lifetime, under the care of the God of eternity. (288pp. color illus. Masthof Press, 2023.)