10 Must-Read Books for Your Next Road Trip Adventure
Are you planning a road trip and looking for the perfect books to accompany you on your journey? Look no further! In this article, we’ve curated a list of 10 must-read books that are sure to make your road trip unforgettable.
1. On the Road by Jack Kerouac
This classic novel chronicles a series of cross-country road trips taken by the author and his friends in the 1950s. Filled with descriptions of the American landscape and the characters they meet along the way, it’s a must-read for any road trip aficionado.
2. Travels with Charley by John Steinbeck
In this memoir, Steinbeck sets out on a road trip across America with his beloved poodle, Charley. Along the way, he meets a variety of people and experiences the country in a way that only a cross-country road trip can offer.
3. America’s Great Loop by Kim Russo
If you’re planning a road trip by boat, then this book is a must-read. Russo documents her journey as she and her husband set out to complete a 5,000-mile loop around the eastern United States. Filled with adventure and insights into the boating lifestyle, this book is perfect for anyone looking for a unique road trip experience.
4. Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert Pirsig
In this philosophical novel, Pirsig takes readers on a cross-country motorcycle trip while exploring the concepts of quality and the pursuit of excellence. It’s a thought-provoking read that’s sure to inspire introspection while on the road.
5. Blue Highways by William Least Heat-Moon
Heat-Moon’s travelogue follows his journey along the back roads and small towns of America, exploring the people and places that are often overlooked by travelers on major highways. It’s a great read for anyone looking to get off the beaten path during their road trip.
6. The Lost Continent by Bill Bryson
In this humorous memoir, Bryson sets out to rediscover America after spending many years living in England. With equal parts comedy and insight, he takes readers on a journey through the heartland of the United States and offers some hilarious observations along the way.
7. Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner
This book offers a unique twist on the road trip genre, as the author travels the world in search of the happiest places on Earth. From the streets of Bhutan to the beaches of Iceland, Weiner explores the connections between geography and happiness in a way that’s both thought-provoking and entertaining.
8. Ultramarathon Man by Dean Karnazes
If you’re looking for a book that will inspire you to push your physical limits, then look no further than this memoir by ultra-runner Dean Karnazes. Through his stories of running extreme distances across different continents, Karnazes offers insights into endurance, determination, and the beauty of the natural world.
9. Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
Krakauer’s book tells the true story of Chris McCandless, a young man who ventured into the Alaskan wilderness in search of adventure and self-discovery. McCandless’s journey highlights the power of nature and the importance of self-reflection, making it a great read for anyone embarking on a road trip to clear their mind.
10. Wild by Cheryl Strayed
This memoir follows Strayed as she hikes the Pacific Crest Trail, a 2,600-mile trek that stretches from Mexico to Canada. Along the way, she grapples with loss, addiction, and the challenges of navigating the wilderness alone. It’s a powerful story of perseverance and finding oneself through the journey.
Conclusion
No matter where you plan to go on your road trip, these 10 books are sure to elevate your experience and offer insights into the beauty of the world around us. From memoirs to philosophical tomes, each book is a unique journey in and of itself that’s sure to make your road trip unforgettable. Happy reading!
