My husband and I listened to the audiobook of "Dear Bob and Sue" on a current road trip we're taking. We both love National Parks, and were interested to hear what Matt and Karen thought about some of our favorites. What this book should actually be called is, "Matt and Karen's Search for Beer." They spent more time complaining about each other than spend time in the parks, and made us roll our eyes more times than we could count. Not a huge fan, and probably wouldn't have finished it if it wasn't in audio form. ( )

When I started this book, I imagined the author must be in his 70s. It could have been the audiobook narrator, but I think it was more about the old-fashioned husband and wife relationship in this marriage. The whole "my wife is so silly, but I tolerate her. My systems and schemes will save her from herself." I think they think they're funny. I didn't find them so. Even more, it wasn't clear WHY this couple wanted to visit every national park. It felt to me less like they were appreciating the beauty and wonders and history of our country, and more like they just wanted to have the "trophy" of completing the list. I didn't learn much about the parks, but I did learn about this couple's need for beer everywhere they went. What a tired trope. This book just rubbed me the wrong way overall. ( )

First of all, the Smoky Mountains are gorgeous and smoke rises from the dense forest that will take your breath away! Aldo, they were there when the fireflies swarm in June. This was not mentioned. Mammoth Cave is awesome and the drop in temperature as you descend was not mentioned either. Nor any of the wonderful stories and history that makes the cave more than a huge cavernous hole in the ground. Key West is the most beautiful place on earth. Eccentric, funky, perfumed and a paradise. I was offended they made fun of the tourists and made no mention of Hemingway who is synonymous with Key West!!

I struggled reading this book and found my mind wandering quite a bit. I can't put my finger on it. I love this genre of writing. But usually there is something worthwhile in the journey. I suppose the premise, e-mails written to friends with the sign off "your friend" does not invite thoughtful analysis and reflection of the narrative. I sign off to my friends, Stay Frosty or Dazed and Confused.

I suppose these are blog posts and meant to entertain in a frivolous and entertaining manner. Any examination of personal growth or better awareness of your life partner were not factored in. Though I am certain that spending a year together 24/7 made for many opportunities to grow as a couple.

Maybe that's the next book.

This is akin to speed dating. ( )

I enjoyed reading this book, it makes me want to get out there and see what I can before I'm too old to do it. While this is definitely no replacement for a good travel guide to the National Parks, it was a good read about this couples goal of seeing all of the Parks while they took a hiatus from their jobs. Their trips were often rushed, but actually well researched to get the the best of each park in their limits of time. Full of good ideas, humor, and appreciation for what there is. ( )

Matt and Karen set off to visit all of the national parks, and this wonderful book is the result. I laughed out loud in many places! I also read the book with my laptop in front of me - I looked up every park and got to "see" what the Smiths saw and experienced, as best I could. I also learned about many parks that I didn't know about, so it was a very educational read also. I thoroughly enjoyed my own virtual journey around America. ( )