Chapter 2 Summary

Bryson puts notes in his Christmas cards inviting friends and family to join him on his trek, for all or parts of it. Only one person responds - Stephen Katz, an old school friend he hasn't seen in twenty-five years. Katz tells Bryson that he is in great shape and sounds upbeat about the trip, so Bryson gladly welcomes him. When Katz steps off the plane a week later, he staggers across the tarmac with a large stomach and a duffel bag full of Snickers, claiming that he will have seizures if he does not eat every hour. They visit Dave Mengle again to outfit Katz for the trip and then buy provisions, with Katz attempting to stuff their cart full of Little Debbie's and other junk food. The next morning Katz staggers downstairs with shoes and pots tied to the outside of...