How to Shit in the Woods: An Environmentally Sound Approach to a Lost Art : Book Review

"How to Shit in the Woods" written by Kathleen Meyer is a must-read guide for outdoor enthusiasts, offering comprehensive advice on the delicate matter of going to the bathroom in nature. With a delightful blend of humor and information, Meyer covers all aspects of this often-overlooked topic, including selecting the perfect "toilet" spot, minimizing environmental impact, and addressing hygiene concerns.

The book begins by emphasizing the importance of practicing Leave No Trace principles while in the wilderness and highlights the need for proper disposal of human waste. Meyer provides practical tips on how to dig a cathole, construct makeshift toilets, and use biodegradable toilet paper. Furthermore, she explores various methods of hygiene, including using natural materials such as leaves and rocks for cleansing.

Privacy and etiquette are given significant attention throughout the book. Meyer acknowledges the potential embarrassment and discomfort associated with bathroom needs in the wild and offers invaluable advice on maintaining privacy and adhering to proper etiquette when nature calls. She also bravely discusses the often-taboo subject of menstruation, providing helpful tips for women on managing their periods outdoors.

What sets "How to Shit in the Woods" apart is Meyer's engaging storytelling style. Through anecdotes and personal experiences, she not only imparts practical information but also entertains readers. Her witty writing style and the inclusion of helpful illustrations and diagrams make the instructions easy to follow and the reading experience enjoyable.

Whether you are a hiker, camper, or simply a nature lover, "How to Shit in the Woods" is an indispensable resource for anyone who enjoys spending time in the great outdoors. It covers a wide range of topics related to human waste disposal in nature, making it an essential handbook. So, if you want to navigate the tricky business of going to the bathroom in the wild with confidence and a touch of humor, this book is the perfect guide for you.

What are readers saying?

Kathleen Meyer's book, "How to Shit in the Woods," has garnered a range of reviews, with readers sharing different opinions on its content. Some praised the author's practical advice and humorous writing style, while others found the book to be repetitive and lacking in fresh insights.

Many readers appreciated the practicality of the book, considering it a must-read for frequent outdoor enthusiasts. They commended Meyer for providing clear and helpful instructions on how to properly dispose of waste in a natural setting. Her suggestions on constructing effective outdoor toilets and utilizing natural materials were seen as valuable and insightful.

Furthermore, Meyer's engaging and humorous writing style resonated with many readers. They found her anecdotes and clever remarks to be entertaining, fostering a more approachable and less awkward tone when discussing the otherwise taboo topic of defecation. Some even mentioned that they burst into laughter while reading the book.

However, negative reviews were present as well. Several readers expressed their disappointment with the repetitive nature of the book, claiming that it presented the same information in different chapters. They believed that the content could have been condensed into a shorter book without losing any crucial advice. Additionally, some readers felt that the book lacked new or unique insights, especially for experienced campers or hikers who were already familiar with the topic.

In conclusion, "How to Shit in the Woods" by Kathleen Meyer elicited mixed responses from readers. While a majority appreciated the practical advice and humorous tone of the book, others felt it was overly repetitive or lacking in new information. Ultimately, readers with limited knowledge of outdoor waste disposal techniques may find the book more useful than those already well-versed in the subject.

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