[Charlespg]

I think I'll withhold judgment on this episode. If the young girl returns safely and refuses interviews, stories, book deals and movie offers then she can say she did it for the challenge. If she and her parents hustle the story for money then they can foot the bill for the rescue.

very good point.theres no doubt she's a very unusual girl.

but I am skeptical when thousands of dollars and sponsorships are involved
And the original posters screed ignored how much parental ego might be involved here

[Paved Paradise]

You are inside of my head, brother. I think it has way more to do with the parents...just like that little environmental wacko kid I read about about a year ago... her thoughts, likes, and interests are her “parent’s.”

Let the kid enjoy her life. They grow up fast enough. All these people talk about her independence but what’s the big deal for her to have waited two years? Oh, that’s right, all of the money would not be there b/c then she wouldn’t be the youngest girl or whatever other goal she was trying to set.

[gunsequalfreedom]

And the original posters screed ignored how much parental ego might be involved here...

I hope there is a ton of parental ego involved. Do you hear what you are saying?! Have you seen the problems in our society from parents that are uninvolved, pay no attention to their children.

The kids I have seen grow up to be bright, productive adults have had parents with huge egos and put this kind of energy and attention into their kids lives.

I can't believe these are comments on FR that I am reading. Your post is shocking. Have we become totally twisted into liberal group think.

There is a book you might enjoy.

[Old North State]

Good point about the ‘sponsorships’ too. Again, no problem with taking risks, but if the risk taking is part of a commercial enterprise then those who expect the benefit should pay the costs of the enterprise, for better or for worse. If you sponsor for the advertising advantage, then you pay the costs of the voyage, you don't expect somebody else to pay to clean up the mess if something goes wrong.

[Boxsford]

Who cares if she gets book deals, stories and interviews. Heck, I’d love to see an interview of this adventure. What is wrong with you people on this site? This young woman very clearly has been raised outside the box. Kudos to her and her parents! I could care less if they make millions. That is clearly not what this is about.