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Best Road Trip Books

December 2024

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas

In “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” Hunter S. Thompson takes readers on a wild, surreal journey through the heart of the American Dream. With his trusty attorney, Dr. Gonzo, by his side, Thompson embarks on a drug-fueled road trip to Las Vegas, ostensibly to cover a motorcycle race. What unfolds is a chaotic, darkly comedic exploration of excess and disillusionment. Thompson’s vivid prose and sharp wit make this a compelling, unforgettable ride.

Travels with Charley

In 1960, John Steinbeck embarked on a cross-country journey with his faithful poodle, Charley, seeking to rediscover the America he’d been writing about for decades. This travelogue is a poignant reflection on a changing nation, filled with Steinbeck’s keen observations and wry humor. From dusty back roads to bustling cities, the author’s encounters with everyday Americans paint a vivid portrait of a country in transition. It’s a deeply personal odyssey that still resonates today, reminding us of the enduring spirit of adventure and the complexities of home.

On the Plain of Snakes

Paul Theroux’s “On the Plain of Snakes” is a gripping journey through Mexico’s heart and soul. With his trademark wit and keen eye, Theroux ventures beyond tourist traps, delving into the country’s complex realities. He encounters vibrant communities, confronts dangers, and challenges stereotypes. Through intimate conversations and vivid descriptions, Theroux paints a nuanced portrait of a nation at a crossroads, leaving readers with a deeper understanding of Mexico’s struggles and triumphs.

Deep South

Paul Theroux’s “Deep South” is a captivating journey through America’s heartland. With his keen eye and sharp wit, Theroux delves into the complexities of Southern culture, exploring its rich history and modern-day challenges. From dusty backroads to lively town squares, he paints a vivid portrait of a region often misunderstood. Theroux’s encounters with locals are both touching and eye-opening, revealing the South’s enduring spirit and contradictions. A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the soul of America.

The Someday Birds

Charlie’s world turns upside down when his dad is injured in Afghanistan. Suddenly, he’s on a cross-country road trip with his siblings and a mysterious woman, chasing his father’s recovery. Armed with his late grandfather’s birding journal, Charlie seeks comfort in his obsession with birds. As the miles fly by, he discovers that life, like birding, is full of unexpected detours and beautiful surprises. A touching tale of family, hope, and the healing power of nature.

The One Plus One

Jess Thomas is a single mom struggling to make ends meet. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Ed Nicholls, a tech millionaire facing his own troubles. Together, they embark on a chaotic road trip to Scotland for Jess’s math prodigy daughter’s competition. Along the way, they face hilarious mishaps and heartwarming moments that bring them closer. As they navigate their quirky journey, Jess and Ed discover that sometimes, the most unlikely pairings can lead to the most beautiful connections. It’s a story that’ll make you laugh, cry, and believe in second chances.

The Lincoln Highway

Emmett Watson, freshly released from juvenile detention, returns to his Nebraska farm in June 1954, only to find his world turned upside down. With his father gone and the bank foreclosing, Emmett plans a fresh start in California with his little brother. But fate intervenes when two escaped inmates from his past show up, setting in motion an unexpected journey along the Lincoln Highway. Amor Towles weaves a captivating tale of friendship, redemption, and the unpredictable twists of life, reminding us that sometimes the most extraordinary adventures begin with a simple change of plans.

The Lincoln Highway

Emmett Watson, freshly released from juvenile detention, returns to his Nebraska farm in 1954 to find his world turned upside down. With his father gone and the family land foreclosed, Emmett plans a fresh start in California with his young brother. But fate intervenes when two escaped inmates from his past show up, setting in motion an unexpected journey along the Lincoln Highway. Towles weaves a captivating tale of friendship, redemption, and the unpredictable twists of life, as four young men embark on a cross-country adventure that will change them forever.

An Abundance of Katherines

Colin Singleton, a child prodigy with a knack for anagrams, has dated nineteen girls named Katherine. After being dumped by Katherine XIX, he embarks on a road trip with his best friend Hassan to prove his Theorem of Underlying Katherine Predictability. Along the way, they encounter quirky characters in a small town, where Colin’s mathematical obsession collides with real-life experiences. Green’s witty prose and endearing characters make this a charming exploration of love, friendship, and the unpredictable nature of growing up.

One Plus One

Jess Thomas, a single mom struggling to make ends meet, finds her world turned upside down when she meets Ed Nicholls, a tech millionaire facing fraud charges. Their unlikely paths cross on a road trip to Scotland, where Jess’s math prodigy daughter hopes to win a life-changing competition. As they navigate quirky mishaps and unexpected detours, Jess and Ed discover that sometimes, the most improbable equations yield the most beautiful solutions. A heartwarming tale of second chances and the power of human connection.