Best Geography Books April 2025

The Last Train to Zona Verde

Renowned travel writer Paul Theroux takes readers on a final African odyssey in “The Last Train to Zona Verde.” With his trademark wit and keen observations, Theroux journeys through the continent’s southwestern corner, from Cape Town to Angola. As he encounters both beauty and despair, he grapples with the complexities of modern Africa and his own mortality. This poignant travelogue is a bittersweet farewell to a land that has captivated him for decades, offering a raw and unflinching look at a rapidly changing continent.

Ghost Train to the Eastern Star

Theroux’s captivating travelogue retraces his epic journey from thirty years ago, weaving through Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia. With his keen eye for detail and wry humor, he reflects on the changes—both subtle and stark—that have transformed these lands. From bustling bazaars to remote villages, Theroux’s encounters with locals and fellow travelers paint a vivid portrait of cultures in flux. His introspective musings on aging and the passage of time add a poignant layer to this already rich narrative.

The Old Patagonian Express

Embarking on an epic rail journey from Boston to Patagonia, Theroux’s vivid travelogue captures the essence of Latin America. His keen observations and wry humor bring to life the characters he encounters along the way, from fellow passengers to locals in remote villages. As someone who’s always dreamed of such an adventure, I found myself transported by Theroux’s evocative prose. The book’s richly detailed descriptions of landscapes and cultures left me with a deep longing to experience this incredible journey firsthand.

The Great Railway Bazaar

Embarking on an epic four-month journey by train, Paul Theroux’s “The Great Railway Bazaar” is a captivating travelogue that whisks readers across Europe and Asia. With his keen eye for detail and wry humor, Theroux paints vivid portraits of the characters he encounters and the landscapes he traverses. From the Orient Express to the Trans-Siberian, each railway line becomes a story unto itself, revealing the heart of the places he visits. It’s a book that’ll make you yearn for adventure and the romance of rail travel.

In a Sunburned Country

G’day, mate! Join Bill Bryson on a hilarious romp through the Land Down Under. From deadly creatures to quirky locals, Bryson’s wit shines as he explores Australia’s vast outback and bustling cities. His keen observations and self-deprecating humor will have you chuckling while learning fascinating tidbits about this sunburned country. Warning: May cause uncontrollable wanderlust and a sudden craving for Vegemite sandwiches. Pack your sunnies and let’s go walkabout!

A Walk in the Woods

Bryson’s hilarious account of hiking the Appalachian Trail is a journey of self-discovery and natural wonder. With his trademark wit, he recounts the challenges and joys of trekking through the wilderness, from encounters with bears to quirky trail companions. As someone who’s dreamed of tackling the AT myself, I found his honest portrayal both inspiring and cautionary. Bryson’s keen observations and dry humor make this more than just a travelogue—it’s a meditation on America’s relationship with nature and the enduring allure of the great outdoors.