Opportunities to be transported around the world through the pages of a good read have been a balm for adventure seekers. We asked eight authors to recommend their favorite travel books. These titles will satisfy your wanderlust until you can travel again.
Key Takeaways
- Embark on a literary adventure with these travel books to satisfy your wanderlust.
- Discover stories that transport you to different global destinations through vivid descriptions and engaging narratives.
- Experience the thrill of exploring new cultures, landscapes, and perspectives through the pages of these recommended travel books.
- Find solace and inspiration in travel stories as you wait for your next real-life adventure.
- Escape into the pages of these books and let them fuel your imagination with their tales of global exploration.
‘Rockaway’ by Diane Cardwell
Bonnie Tsui recommends ‘Rockaway’ by Diane Cardwell, a book about starting over and finding hope through surfing. It is a guidepost to survival and exploration in our own backyards, offering joy and altered perspective in difficult times.
Book Summary:
In ‘Rockaway’, Diane Cardwell takes readers on a captivating journey of self-discovery through the power of surfing. As Cardwell reflects on her own personal struggles, she finds solace and inspiration in the waves of Rockaway, a beachfront neighborhood in Queens, New York.
“Surfing became my meditation, my respite, my teacher.”
Through immersive storytelling and vivid descriptions, Cardwell transports readers to the world of Rockaway, where the ocean becomes a sanctuary and a source of renewal. She explores the deep connection between nature and the human spirit, highlighting the healing power of the sea.
With each wave she conquers and every wipeout she endures, Cardwell reveals the transformative nature of the surfing experience. ‘Rockaway’ is not just a book about riding waves, but a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the limitless potential for growth and change.
Key Insights from ‘Rockaway’ by Diane Cardwell
| Insight | Description |
|---|---|
| The healing power of surfing | Discover how surfing can provide solace and mental rejuvenation. |
| Exploring the connection between nature and self | Gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact the ocean can have on personal growth and reflection. |
| Overcoming challenges and finding hope | Follow Cardwell’s journey of resilience and learn how the pursuit of a passion can bring about positive change. |
| Finding joy and altered perspective in difficult times | Discover how immersing oneself in nature can provide a fresh outlook and renewed sense of purpose. |
‘Leave Only Footprints’ by Conor Knighton
Escape the relentless news cycle and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of national parks with Conor Knighton’s captivating book, ‘Leave Only Footprints’. Mark Adams praises this charming survey that serves as a respite for weary souls. It explores the breathtaking wonders of nature and inspires readers to embrace the great outdoors, unplug from everyday stress, and embark on their own unforgettable adventures.
In ‘Leave Only Footprints’, Conor Knighton takes you on a journey through some of the most awe-inspiring national parks, sharing his personal experiences and insights. With his engaging storytelling style, Knighton invites you to discover the hidden treasures and remarkable landscapes that make these protected areas so special.
This delightful book is not just a travel guide; it’s a testament to the resilience of nature and the importance of preserving our natural heritage. Through vivid descriptions and heartfelt anecdotes, Knighton reminds us of the wonders that await us beyond our screens and encourages us to become more conscious of our footprint on the Earth.
“The national parks are our own corner of true wilderness, where we can escape the noise and chaos of modern life. ‘Leave Only Footprints’ reminds us of the importance of connecting with nature and the healing power of outdoor exploration.” – Mark Adams
National Parks Featured in ‘Leave Only Footprints’
| National Park | Location |
|---|---|
| Yellowstone National Park | Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, USA |
| Yosemite National Park | California, USA |
| Grand Canyon National Park | Arizona, USA |
| Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Tennessee, North Carolina, USA |
‘Leave Only Footprints’ encourages you to disconnect from the virtual world and reconnect with the beauty and tranquility of nature. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or a novice explorer, Conor Knighton’s book is the perfect companion for anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper appreciation for our planet’s natural wonders.
‘I Hold a Wolf by the Ears: Stories’ by Laura Van Den Berg
Morgan Jerkins recommends the captivating collection of horror stories, I Hold a Wolf by the Ears: Stories, written by Laura Van Den Berg. This gripping anthology skillfully depicts various locations, including the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of Florida.
Through her prose, Van Den Berg delves into complex female emotions, exploring the depths of fear, desire, and vulnerability. Each story offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective that resonates deeply with readers. In these unprecedented times, I Hold a Wolf by the Ears provides solace and understanding, allowing us to confront our own fears and embrace the power of storytelling.
“Van Den Berg’s mastery of the horror genre takes readers on a journey that both chills and comforts. Her ability to capture the essence of different locations immerses readers in vivid and unsettling worlds. A must-read for fans of atmospheric storytelling.” – Morgan Jerkins, acclaimed author
Themes Explored in ‘I Hold a Wolf by the Ears: Stories’
| Themes | Description |
|---|---|
| Fear and Desperation | Each story examines the darker aspects of the human experience, evoking emotions of fear and desperation. |
| Female Identity | Van Den Berg’s stories dive into the intricacies of female emotions, offering a nuanced exploration of identity. |
| Unsettling Locations | From the depths of forests to the haunting beauty of Florida, the stories transport readers to unsettling and atmospheric settings. |
Step into the haunting world of Laura Van Den Berg’s I Hold a Wolf by the Ears: Stories. Prepare to be captivated by its atmospheric storytelling and deeply relatable exploration of the human condition.
‘Wanderland: A Search for Magic in the Landscape’ by Jini Reddy
Immerse yourself in the enchanting memoir Wanderland: A Search for Magic in the Landscape by Jini Reddy. This captivating book takes you on a mystical journey through Britain’s natural wonders, allowing you to discover the hidden gems that lie within.
Reddy’s memoir celebrates the joys of roaming and reconnecting with nature. With her vivid storytelling and insightful observations, she invites you to explore the landscapes that have been revered for centuries, revealing the secrets they hold.
“There is magic in the landscape, waiting to be discovered by those with an open heart and curious mind.”
Through her own experiences and encounters, Reddy unravels the threads that connect people to the natural world. Her words will transport you to lush forests, serene lakes, and breathtaking mountains, encouraging you to embark on your own journey of exploration.
Wanderer’s Guide: Nature’s Treasures
| Location | Magical Element |
|---|---|
| The Enchanted Forest | Ancient trees whispering tales of old |
| The Mystical Moorlands | Mysterious mists revealing hidden wonders |
| The Sacred River | Flowing melody that soothes the soul |
| The Enigmatic Meadow | Dancing wildflowers painting nature’s canvas |
Uncover the magic that lies just beyond your doorstep. Wanderland will awaken your senses, spark your curiosity, and ignite a newfound appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us. Let Jini Reddy be your guide as you embark on a search for enchantment in the landscape.
‘Underland: A Deep Time Journey’ by Robert Macfarlane
Tom Zoellner praises ‘Underland: A Deep Time Journey’ by Robert Macfarlane, which invites readers to explore underground spaces and appreciate the pedestrian landscapes. It encourages a deeper understanding of our surroundings and the language we use to describe them.
| Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Explores underground spaces | Unveils hidden landscapes and uncovers the mysteries beneath our feet. |
| Appreciates pedestrian landscapes | Encourages a shift in perspective to appreciate the beauty and significance of everyday surroundings. |
| Deeper understanding | Promotes a greater understanding of our connection to the Earth and the language we use to describe it. |
With mesmerizing prose, Macfarlane takes readers on a captivating journey into the depths of the Earth. From underground rivers to hidden caves, ‘Underland’ reveals the hidden wonders that lie beneath the surface. Through his exploration, Macfarlane delves into the interconnectedness of nature and culture, providing thought-provoking insights on the human relationship with the subterranean world.
“…for the sounds of most landscapes, ‘Underland’ suggests, never quite vanish: they merely go into hiding, waiting for people to come along with the right ears.”
Macfarlane’s rich descriptions and lyrical storytelling transport readers to extraordinary depths, igniting a sense of wonder and curiosity. By grounding the narrative in personal experiences and encounters with diverse individuals, he highlights the profound impact that the hidden world has on our lives.
Complemented by captivating illustrations and striking photographs, ‘Underland: A Deep Time Journey’ immerses readers in an exploration of the intricate layers that shape the landscape we inhabit.
‘Spirit Run: A 6,000-Mile Marathon Through North America’s Stolen Land’ by Noé Alvarez
Maggie Shipstead recommends ‘Spirit Run: A 6,000-Mile Marathon Through North America’s Stolen Land’ by Noé Alvarez, a memoir that combines a running journey with a quest for connection to land and ancestors. It provides a deeply personal and moving perspective on the American system and mass suffering.
The sequel follows Noé Alvarez, a Mexican-American college student, as he embarks on a life-altering journey, partaking in an Indigenous spiritual run that spans over 6,000 miles through North America. The Spirit Run serves as a conduit for Alvarez to reflect on his own heritage and the history of his ancestors—the struggle, loss, resilience, and the stolen land.
“Spirit Run is a powerful testament to the importance of reclaiming one’s identity, acknowledging the painful history that has shaped us, and striving for justice and reconciliation,” says Shipstead.
The book delves into themes of cultural identity, migration, displacement, and the complex relationship between humans and the environment. Alvarez’s introspective exploration provides readers with a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of people and place, bridging gaps between cultures and highlighting the significance of reclaiming one’s heritage.
Key Takeaways from ‘Spirit Run: A 6,000-Mile Marathon Through North America’s Stolen Land’
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| Exploration of cultural identity and the migrant experience |
| A personal journey intertwined with Indigenous spirituality |
| An examination of the impact of colonization and stolen land |
| Reflections on the resilience and struggles of Indigenous communities |
| A call for justice, reconciliation, and environmental stewardship |
Alvarez’s storytelling grips readers from start to finish, drawing them into a world of physical and emotional endurance, while shedding light on the ongoing legacy of colonialism and systemic injustices. Through ‘Spirit Run: A 6,000-Mile Marathon Through North America’s Stolen Land’, Alvarez ignites conversations about land rights, cultural preservation, and the power of resilience.
‘The New Wilderness’ by Diane Cook
Rahawa Haile recommends ‘The New Wilderness’ by Diane Cook, a speculative novel that explores the last remaining wilderness and the struggle for survival. It focuses on the necessity of working with others to preserve the planet and offers a timely reflection on the climate crisis.
“Cook’s prose is undulating, capable of moving like the landscape of her subjects”
In ‘The New Wilderness’, Diane Cook takes readers on a thought-provoking and gripping journey through a world devastated by environmental collapse. Set in a future where nature has been reduced to a single wilderness reserve, the book explores themes of human resilience, the complexity of relationships, and the delicate balance between civilization and the natural world.
The story follows Bea and her daughter Agnes as they embark on a desperate escape to the wilderness, leaving behind the restrictions and chaos of the city. In this harsh and unforgiving landscape, they join a group of other individuals seeking a new way of life. Together, they navigate the challenges of survival, encountering both the wonders and dangers of the wild.
The Struggle for Survival
‘The New Wilderness’ delves into the fundamental human instinct for survival and the lengths people are willing to go to protect themselves and their loved ones. Cook’s vivid descriptions and evocative language transport readers to a world where every decision is a matter of life and death.
The Importance of Preserving the Planet
This novel serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect our environment. Through the characters’ experiences and the precarious state of the last remaining wilderness, Cook highlights the destructive consequences of human actions and the value of collective effort in preserving the natural world.
‘The New Wilderness’ is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that will resonate with readers who are drawn to dystopian fiction, environmental issues, and the exploration of human nature. Diane Cook’s storytelling prowess and her ability to create a vivid and unsettling world make this a must-read for fans of speculative fiction.
Conclusion
Travel books have the power to transport adventure seekers around the world, offering inspiration and escape. These captivating narratives allow you to embark on journeys without leaving the comfort of your own home. Whether you long to explore natural wonders, seek tales of resilience and self-discovery, or yearn for deep emotional connections, travel books have you covered.
With stories that range from starting over to marathons through stolen lands, these books provide solace and hope for global exploration. They ignite the sense of wanderlust within you, reminding you of the limitless possibilities that await, even in troubled times. As you flip through the pages, you’ll find yourself immersed in different cultures, landscapes, and experiences.
So, let these travel books be your compass on a literary adventure. Allow their words to transport you to far-flung destinations and invite you to see the world through the eyes of others. Whether you’re dreaming of an epic hike, a deserted island, or a bustling city, these books offer a gateway to satisfy your wanderlust and quench your thirst for global exploration.
