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Curl Up with This List of the Best Adventure Nonfiction Books on the Shelves

• October 21, 2020
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on November 4, 2021 by foxintheforest

There’s something magical about the best adventure nonfiction books. Seriously, when I can’t get out, you can find me eating my way out of a calorie hole, or curled up with a great non-fiction adventure book.

As an outdoor writer, I eat, sleep, and breathe all things adventure (shocking, I know). I’ve spent years book worming about to bring you a list of the most heart-pumping, adrenaline-inducing, eye-opening adventure reads out there.

My complete list of the best nonfiction adventure books in the outdoors and beyond has something for nearly every interest.

Note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I get a small kickback for any purchases made through these links, at no added cost to you. This helps me pay for expenses regarding my blog, so I can keep bringing you rad suggestions for free.

About this Guide to the Best Adventure Nonfiction Books

When it comes to the best nonfiction adventure books, there’s an array of sub-genres to choose from. In this guide to the best adventure nonfiction books you’ll find:

• Info on how the list is organized
• The best adventure nonfiction books related to amazing accomplishments
• Mountaineering stories
• The best adventure travel books
• Books about indigenous cultures
• Outdoor survival stories
• The best skill-building references
• The words adventure nonfiction books

How I Organized this List of the Best Adventure Nonfiction Books

The hardest part about creating a list of stellar non-fiction adventure books had nothing to do with actually reading the material.

In fact, I’ve read so many adventure books, I just had to break it down into categories. This makes your life easier when building up that kick-ass list of nonfiction adventure books

These books are organized by story type, subject matter, or if they are a reference book. So scroll to find the sub-genre that tickles your adventurous side!

Amazing Feats: The Best Outdoor Adventure Books

These books are written by folks who have accomplished some unthinkable milestones in the outdoors. All of these reads rank high as some of the best outdoor adventure books.

Unbound: A Story of Snow and Self-Discovery by Steph Jagger

Steph Jagger woke up one day and realized she needed to change. She decided to take a year off of her regular life and attempt seven million vertical feet of skiing.

Her journey takes her beyond the slopes, where she learned to connect with her true self. Sometimes it takes a wake-up call to realize that you’re living the life everyone else thinks is best.

No Shortcuts to the Top: Climbing the World’s 14 Highest Peaks by Ed Viesturs and David Roberts

Ed Viesturs is hands down, a world-class mountaineer. He was the first man from the United States to submit all of the 8,000m peaks without supplemental oxygen .

His perseverance and wisdom in the mountains hold so much truth. He taught me that the summit is only the halfway point.

Walking the Himalaya by Levison Wood

Levinson Wood completes these fantastic walks across some of the world’s most contested landscapes. I always joke that if I was born a man, I would have his job.

His book about his journey across the Himalaya left me aw-struck, mostly because I want to walk across the length of Nepal someday. This book left me wanting more, but it’s a great read if you love mountains making it one of the best outdoor adventure books.

For more books about the tallest mountain range in the world, check out these amazing Himalayan adventure reads .

Animal Dialogues: Uncommon Encounters in the Wild by Craig Childs

So confession time: I’m a bit obsessed with Craig Childs. He’s on this list quite a bit, and that’s because his imagery is top-notch.

This book doesn’t focus on human feats, but rather that of an animal kind. Animal Dialogues is a collection of short stories about various animal species and the characteristics that make them so inspiring.

Kon Tiki by Thor Heyerdahl

Bordering on a classic, this incredible book tells the story of Thor Heyerdahl, a Norwegian ethnographer that sets out on a hand-made raft from Peru to French Polynesia.

First, the concept of this undertaking is just wild! He aims to prove that an ancient civilization could have traveled the same distances. Of course, there was plenty of adventure to be had along the way which makes this read one of the best adventure nonfiction books on the shelves.

Climbing Free: My Life in the Vertical World by Lynn Hill

Okay, so I’ll let you in on a little secret. At first, I hated this book. There was no sense of struggle or strife. No ah-ha moment or any sense of relatability in Lynn Hill’s story.

I know, I’m really selling it. But hear me out.

Climbing Free is about one thing and that’s freaking crushing. Lynn Hill literally smashed sends and defied gravity throughout her career. Sure, her life was somewhat handed to her on a silver platter, but if you want to read a novel that focuses on how a woman can crush, then read Climbing Free.

The Best Adventure Nonfiction Books: Mountaineering Marvels

I’ve read countless books about life in the high alpine. These mountain marvels will fix your need to get that thin air and climb high.

Higher Love: Skiing the Seven Summits by Kit DesLauriers

DesLauriers decided she was going to be the first female to ski the Seven Summits .

Although I don’t agree with her choice of the high point of the Australian Plate (Carstenz Pyramid or Puncak Jaya would have been my choice), I still admire her courage with this book. She speaks about societal pressures, personal pressure, and the need to perform. I don’t care what critics said, she still skied Everest and damn does she have a story to tell.

Annapurna: A Woman’s Place by Arlene Blum

After I returned from Nepal, I picked up Arlene Blum’s masterpiece about the trials and tribulations of being the first team of women to summit an 8,000m peak. What an eye-opener. I love the visuals accompanied with the book and she’s got it right: A woman’s place is on top!

Touching the Void: The True Story of One Man’s Miraculous Survival by Joe Simpson

So Touching the Void could also technical fall into survival, this epic true tale of surviving a climbing accident in the Himalaya will leave your jaw on the floor. Just as you think things can’t get any worse, they do.

When all hope is lost, it’s found. This true tale of grit and struggle will have you on the edge of your seat!

The White Death by McKay Jenkins

Although tragic, The White Death tells the incredible story of three friends heading out to make history in Glacier National Park is a mysterious tale of five climbers who go missing in a mysterious mountaineering accident.

This book not only dives into the depths of avalanche history in the USA, but it also uncovers the mystery of what may have happened on this tragic winter day.

Dead Mountain: The Untold True Story of the Dyatlov Pass Incident by Donnie Eichar

Like eerie stories with no clear ending? Interested in freaky events tied to conspiracies? Then pick up Dead Mountain . Donnie Eichar tells a deadly journey of a Russian climbing club on a mission to make records.

The weird thing is, no one can quite piece together what happened. Donnie Eichar gives varying scenarios and does a deep dive into just what happened at Dyatlov Pass in one of the best adventure nonfiction books of all time

Awesome Nonfiction Adventure Travel Books

If you want to combine the best adventure nonfiction books with some overseas travel, then escape with these titles.

Tracks: A Woman’s Solo Trek across 1,700 Miles of Australian Outback by Robyn Davidson

This could also be filed under “Amazing feats” but Davidson took a pack of camels (that she trained) and her pup across some of the harshest landscapes on earth.

Her insight into the conflict between the aboriginal people and the white Australian settlers was beautifully done. Sure, it takes a while for the story to get rolling, I almost put the book down, but I’m sure glad that I didn’t.

The Lunatic Express by Carl Hoffman

If you’ve ever traveled like a backpacker you’ll have an appreciation for the Lunatic Express . Hoffman decided to take the most dangerous modes of public transportation around the world , just to see what it’s like.

Having also spent far too much time on a rusty bucket Indonesian ferry, I can certainly relate. His personal issues cloud the story a bit, but I suppose when your ass spends that much time going numb on a hard seat life will eventually bubble up.

Terra Incognita by Sara Wheeler

I’ve honestly never been too interested in Antarctica, it largely seemed like a desolate place and I hate the cold. Then I read Terra Incognita .

Antarctica is a weird place, not ruled by man, but also frequently visited. She had some incredible opportunities to jump around to different stations, spend time with various nations and really embed herself in this icy desert.

Stories from the Dirt by John Long

If you haven’t read anything by John Long, you really should pick up Stories from the Dirt . I got this as a Christmas gift from my brother and it was wholly entertaining.

Mr. Long wrote one of the best non-fiction adventure books centered around short stories. Mr. Long is a well-traveled adventure junkie with a dirtbag climber upbringing.

His stories about his career are hilarious, hair-raising and utterly crazy. This book hits some of the highlights and I’m definitely interested in reading more of his work.

Indigenous Cultures

If you spend any time outside, you better educate yourself on the cultures of the native people. I’ve spent the better part of a year reading anything I can get my hands on related to Native American culture here in the US. Believe me, it’s hard to come by, but well-worth the investigation.

The House of Rain by Craig Childs

Curious about the Ancient Puebloans (commonly known as the Anasazi, but that’s actually an offensive term). Childs follows ancient routes across this highly nomadic civilization. Here he uncovers a story of a vast civilization that I can guarantee is left out of every state-issued history book.

Dispossessing the Wilderness by Mark David Spence

Love our national parks? Read Dispossessing the Wilderness . You may change your opinion about our park system. This academic read goes into intense detail about the formation of our national parks.

Spoiler alert, there was a lot of forced relocation of native people. Is this an easy read? No. But is it an important part of our history that should be understood, taught, and learned from? Absolutely.

Diné Bahane’ The Navajo Creation Story by Paul G Zolbrod

I’m really not a fan of religious texts, I find them to be too preachy. Too much right vs wrong and black and white. However, when a contact recommended I read Diné Bahane’ I figured I would put my preconceived notions aside and give it a read.

It’s a surprisingly easy read with plenty of incredible lessons. Being from Colorado, I liked all of the references for places that I’m familiar with. It felt real, tangible, and raw.

I’ve come to see the wilderness in a new light, and the parallels between the Navajo tradition on why animals look and act the way they do, and the scientific thought behind it is pretty freakin’ sweet.

Best Non-Fiction Survival Books

Sometimes, life goes haywire and that’s where this list of the best non-fiction survival books was inspired from. There is a lot to be learned from the will to survive.

Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing

Alright, so Shackleton may have been pretty sexist, likely racist, and a little “conquering.” However, that doesn’t make this INSANE survival tale any less impressive.

His team got stuck in the ice and survived for nearly a year in Antarctica. The story of their rescue and survival is one that needs to be read to be believed.

The Secret Knowledge of Water by Craig Childs

Although this book doesn’t focus so much on a specific survival story, it could help you in a pinch. Childs dives deep into the world of water in North America’s deserts. Where it’s found, how it’s been used over the years and surprising stories about good old H-two-O. Well worth a read for any desert enthusiast.

Lost in the Jungle: A Harrowing True Story of Adventure and Survival by Yossi Ghinsberg

So nonfiction adventure stories set in the Amazon are a little bit of an obsession of mine. There’s something endearing, yet haunting about a jungle and Lost in the Jungle brings out the best in both.

This harrowing story focuses on a backpacking expedition gone wrong in the Amazon and the tale that unfolds is nearly unbelievable.

Classic Adventure Nonfiction Books

New to the genre? Check out these non-fiction adventure classics. From travel to outdoor books, these reads are a staple in any adventure book library.

Unbroken by Laura Hillendbrand

Although this story focuses on World War II, there is still a strong element of outdoor survival. For me, this outdoor book recognizes adventure in a different way.

In fact, I started reading more from the non-fiction adventure genre from this captivating read. It’s the newest addition to the classic adventure reads, but it’s here to stay.

A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson

Bill Bryson is one of my favorite all-time authors and his books about adventure are just charming to read. His ability to tell even the most complex story in a relatable, human way is unmatched.

A Walk in the Woods takes an honest look at thru-hiking through the lens of a less-seasoned explorer. Be prepared to laugh, cringe, and maybe even cry a little. If you love the comical nature of this book, you’ve got to check out this list of funny travel books too!

Into Thin Air by John Krakauer

Into Thin Air had a profound impact on my life. It put mountains on my radar at age ten. I wanted to be a doctor in the Himalaya and help climbers and the Sherpa people. Little did I know that was an insane amount of work (I later switched career objectives at age 19) but my love of the mountains never faltered.

This book, describing the harrowing Everest tragedy of 1996, is an incredible story. Krakauer paints an honest picture of survival and outdoor adventure with this non-fiction adventure classic.

Outdoor Nonfiction Skill Building Refences

Want to level up outside? Here are a few of my favorite reference books.

Freedom of the Hills

Now in its eighth edition , this is the standard for all things mountain. I reference this book constantly, picking it up when I need a refresher and learning all I can before diving into something new. A must-have for anyone looking to mountaineer.

Deep Survival by Laurence Gonzales

Gonzales describes ways in which we can learn about survival from the accidents , skills, and accounts of others. I haven’t quite finished this one yet, but so far I’ve enjoyed learning from different perspectives.

Climbing Anchors by John Long

No trad climber should head out into the wonderful world of multi-pitch without reading Climbing Anchors by John Long. This must-have anchor bible goes in-depth behind the science and art of anchors, protection, and falls. It’s a must-read for any avid trad climber who wants to stay safe.

Total Let Downs: Not Even Good Adventure Nonfiction Books

All that glitters: a climber’s journey through addiction and depression: margot talbot.

I really wanted to like this book. It seemed to be directly up my ally with a mix of emotion, life experience and the outdoors. Unfortunately, I was insanely disappointed.

There is very little focus on the outdoors, maybe the last fifth of the book. I suppose if you want to read someone’s tale of overcoming a bad upbringing and addiction, then you would like this read. But if you’re looking for outdoor adventure and thrills? Don’t look here.

Walking the Amazon by Ed Stafford

Another book I truly wanted to love. It took Stafford three years to complete this journey, but all I found was a lot of complaining. And I mean A LOT.

I suppose if I had to live in the Amazonian bush I may complain too, but the lack of character development, coupled with his obsession of making sure that you knew he didn’t “cheat” for whatever rules he set forth on himself really ruined the read.

Wild by Nature: From Siberia to Australia by Sarah Marquis

This book came highly recommended by a few people. However, I hated it. Out of three up here, this was my least favorite. Marquis constantly complained about how she was chased, scolded, robbed and so on all until she reached Australia.

It came off as ultra-racist. As if she took on this expedition with zero regards for local customs and cultures. No wonder she was chased out of villages, she didn’t even know how to say hello.

It made me roll my eyes more than once. My advice? Instead of creating a pity party, why don’t you educate yourself on socio-economics, cultures, customs and current issues before decided to travel somewhere?

Phew! That was quite the list of outdoor books. Got a fav that isn’t listed here? Go ahead and drop it in the comments below. I’m always looking for new and exciting outdoor adventure reads.

Like to listen to adventure? Check out my list of amazing outdoor podcasts .

Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure.

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My List of Non-Fiction Books to Inspire Adventure Travel

This post may contain affiliate links. This just means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you for helping them promote their product or service. I don’t endorse any services I don’t personally use or recommend.

Those of us with a passion for travel are brimming with curiosity about the world we live in. It’s what drives us to visit the far-flung corners of the earth. And when finances or global pandemics don’t allow it— we can always adventure through the pages of a new book. This list of non-fiction books to inspire adventure travel will take you around the globe, into the lives of some of the greatest adventurers and scientists, & satiate your wanderlust…at least for the time being.

“Blessed are the curious for they will have adventures” Lovelle Drachman

I’m almost strictly a non-fiction reader. Why get lost in a fantasy world when the reality we live in is so vastly interesting & varied as it is? We can climb Everest, live with orangutans in Borneo, or island-hop the uninhabited regions of the South Pacific without ever leaving the comfort of our homes.

Without further ado, here is my list of non-fiction books to inspire adventure travel and satisfy our craving for knowledge & adventure… until we can get back on the road ourselves .

My Favorite Travel Memoirs

10 Years a Nomad

By: Matt Kepnes

Nomadic Matt is my single biggest inspiration in the world of travel & travel blogging. He’s the king of budget travel & yes, he spent 10 years living as a nomad. He’s pretty much been everywhere and he knows how to do it on a for cheap. This book is a compilation of all his favorite travel stories and a look at what fills us with wanderlust & drives us to travel.

The Journey Home

By: Radhanath Swami

The memoir of a typical hippy in Chicago turned monk after an extraordinary trip through Europe into India. A million near-death experiences, several apprenticeships with various swamis, & an incredible travel journey —both physically and emotionally.

What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding

By: Kristin Newman

Hilariously funny story-telling that takes you around the world with Kristen while she masters the art of vacationing. A great travel memoir that takes on the sexier side of solo female travel. As her friends all settled down, she traveled the world & made acquaintance with Israeli bartenders, Finnish poker players, and Argentinian priests.

Endurance 

By: Alfred Lansing

In 1914, Ernest Shackleton set sail to traverse the last uncharted territory on the globe. Antarctica. All did not go as planned. Just a day away from setting foot on land his ship became encased in ice & then crushed. Shackleton & his crew managed the unthinkable. They set out on an 850-mile journey across the South Atlantic in search of civilization. This is a travel memoir technically, yes, but more so it’s a story of resilience and survival in one of the harshest climates on our planet.

Lands of Lost Borders: A Journey on the Silk Road

By: Kate Harris

True exploration is hard to come by. Most of the world has already been mapped & well-traveled. But Kate Harris is a modern-day explorer. In this travelogue, she bicycles the famous route of the silk road & ponders the existential need some of us feel to explore. The feeling of freedom—living without a plan. It’s a story of adventure, but also a look at the importance of breaking boundaries you set for yourself. This book is actually next on my reading list. But it’s so wildly acclaimed within the travel community, I had to include it now.

Hold the Enlightenment

By: Tim Cahill

One of America’s favorite travel writers. Tim Cahill takes you through the Saharan salt mines, the Congolese jungle & much more in a series of essays. Cahill describes stalking the legendary Caspian tiger in the mountains bordering Iraq, slogging through a pitch-black Australian eucalyptus forest to find the nocturnal platypus, diving with great white sharks in South Africa, & staving off enlightenment at a yoga retreat in Jamaica. Wanderlust inspiring, captivating, and oh so entertaining.

Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel

By: Rolf Potts

The true backpackers’ handbook. If you have even the slightest interest in long-term travel give it a read. Rolf dives into the how & why of low-budget traveling. He teaches you how to save, adjust to life on the road, & adjust to “real” life upon returning home.

In A Sunburned Country

By: Bill Bryson

Bryson is one of the most acclaimed travel writers of today. This is his rip-roaring fact-filled account of his time in the land down under. Australia, land of the friendliest locals and the world’s deadliest wildlife. Impossible to put down.

Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail

By: Cheryl Strayed

Sometimes tragedy shakes people to the core. Cheryl was broken. Completely lost–when she set out on a solo 1,100-mile walk along the Pacific Crest Trail. She hiked from the Mojave desert in California to Oregon. Unsuprisingly, this was a healing journey. Walk with her through the terrors, excitement, and adventure on the trail.

Land of the Dawn-Lit Mountains

By: Antonia Bolingbroke-Kent

In the isolated regions of Northeastern India, Antonia set out to chronicle this forgotten corner of Asia. During her endeavor, she meets shamans, opium farmers, attends tribal festivals, & discovers a way of living on the cusp of changing forever.

Into Thin Air

By: Jon Krakauer

Ever dreamed of climbing Everest? You won’t after reading about this heart-breaking tragedy on the world’s highest peak. In 1996, 15 people perished during one wild storm. Some of which were the world’s top climbers at the time. Jon Krakauer, a mountaineer & journalist, was hired to climb the 29,000ft peak and report on the difficulties & give an exclusive look at this monumental feat. Unfortunately, his story of triumph became tragedy as the fateful climb unraveled. His story became a look at how climbing Everest has changed, the dangers of inexperienced climbers & showboating professionals & of course an insane story of human-survival on the inhospitable mountain.

The Sex Lives of Cannibals

By: J Maarten Troost

26 years old & still no idea what to do with his life post-college ( relatable ), Troost decided to pack up & move to a remote island in the equatorial pacific. Reckless and looking for adventure he moved to Tarawa (never heard of it). Which didn’t turn out to the paradise he thought it would be. For the next 2 years, he & his girlfriend have one misadventure after another–toxic fish, deadly bacteria, incompetent government officials the list goes on & on. It’s a hilarious, light, true travel story & will leave you thankful for the modern comforts you have at home.

Into the Wild

A classic. Christopher McCandless was a true free spirit determined to see the world like the great explorers of Jack London & John Muir before him. In 1992, the well-off college grad ditched his car, donated his $25,000 savings to charity, & invented a new life for himself. He hitchhiked to Alaska & then headed off into the wild. This book is a look at his {short} life, what draws us into the American wilderness, & what compels us as human beings to peer over the edge.

Magic Bus : On the Hippie Trail from Istanbul to India

By: Rory MacLean

In the 1960’s, a travel company emerged that packed huge buses of travelers & took them on a route overland from Europe to Istanbul to Kathmandu. These infamous hippie trips took you into the world of enlightenment & yoga so popular in the groovy 60’s all for a near nothing price. Today that route is completely changed by political turmoil and globalization. As Rory Maclean traverses the old trail from Turkey to Iran to India he re-lives old adventures & marvels at the transformation.

Sun After Dark: Flights into the Foreign

By: Pico Iyer

Pico Iyer is renowned as one of the world’s best travel writers. His ability to transport you from your couch to a moment in time half-way across the world is uncanny. In this book, he takes you on an adventure to a Bolivian prison, a horrific taxi-ride through Yemen, and much more. It’s a philosophical musing on the mind during travel mixed in with wild adventure.

To Shake the Sleeping Self

By: Jedidiah Jenkins

Come along for the ride as Jenkins bicycles across two continents, from Oregon to Patagonia, showing that true explorers still exist. He quits his dream job on the eve of turning 30 and embarks on a wild adventure where he contemplates what exactly makes a life worth living. If you need further inspiration to check out his book, he chronicled much of the trip on Instagram here .

For Animal Lovers

Reflections of Eden: My Years with the Orangutans of Borneo

By: Birute Galdikas

Birute is the Jane Goodall of orangutans. She’s a primatologist who spent 40 YEARS living in the inhospitable jungles of Indonesian Borneo & taught us pretty much everything we know today about the fuzzy orange people in the forest. Not only will you learn loads about orangutans, field studies, and the harsh realities of conservation in developing countries–but she is a natural story-teller. She manages to capture the personalities of the orangutans, so you feel the love and the loss she did while working to save the last of the species.

This book inspired our journey into the Sumatran jungles in search of Orangutans ourselves.

Beyond Words: What Animals Think and Feel

By: Carl Safina

Are animals conscious? Do they think, feel, & develop emotional attachments? Carl Safina set out to answer that question. Decades of field-research & brain science on elephants, wolves, and orcas is neatly laid out & show the intricacies of animal behavior. After reading powerful accounts of anger, jealousy, love, and mourning in the animal kingdom–you’ll be left understanding their humanity.

Gorillas in the Mist

By: Dian Fossey

Another first-hand account of primate research, this time the mountain gorillas in Virunga National Park . Sitting within the volcanic regions of Uganda, Rwanda, & at that time Zaire this was hostile territory. She experienced political coops, aggressive poachers, & difficult terrain. Dian doesn’t have the natural story-telling ability that Birute Galdakis does BUT her understanding of gorillas and her fearlessness in the face of danger is evident in its pages. Sadly just 2 years after this book was written, Dian was murdered by poachers in this very mountain range.

Jane Goodall, Dian Fossey, & Birute Galdakis were all funded by the same anthropologist Louis Leakey. He believed the only way to truly understand the primates was for his researchers to immerse themselves in the jungle, living with the primates for decades. He chose women because they were more observant & better notetakers in his opinion.

A Bit of Philosophy

Zen & the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

By: Robert M. Pirsig

Part travel memoir of a father/son motorcycle trip from Minnesota to California, part philosophical look at morals & values, and part deep dive into mental health issues. Zen is heavy reading and fairly complex. But it delves into the importance of travel & ‘quality’ in today’s world.

The Road Home

By: Ethan Nichtern

In today’s world filled with anxiety & uncertainty & general discontent, Nichtern takes a look at Buddhism and how we can apply the early Buddhist teachings to the modern world. For those who feel constantly distracted or the pull of always needing to be on the go ( like myself ), this was an interesting look at how Buddhism can help.

Okay, One Fiction Book

By: Alex Garland

You may have already seen the Leonardo Dicaprio movie, but I promise you the book is worth the read. A backpacker in search of unspoiled paradise stumbles upon the isolated beach of his dreams in Thailand. He joins the small cast of fellow backpackers who have made a home on its idyllic shores & eventually…. paradise isn’t so sweet. It’s a look at the backpacker mentality and the desire to keep hidden gems hidden.

Southeast Asia Memoirs

The Heart Must Break

By: James Mawdsley

During the oppressive rule of Myanmar’s military regime, the Karen people are imprisoned and oppressed. The author, James Mawdsley, works to bring these violations to the world stage. By illegally entering & becoming the newest resident of the torturous Burmese prison system he works to free the people of Myanmar from the corruption of their military dictatorship. Myanmar today has changed little, with the Karen, Shan, & Rohingya people still persecuted daily. It’s a glimpse into the twisted system that still remains.

First They Killed My Father

By: Loung Ung

A harrowing look at the Khmer Regime from a survivor of the killing fields themselves. Her family was removed from their home in Phnom Pehn and forced to walk for days into the rural countryside, where they, like the rest of Cambodia’s working class, were separated and sent off to labor camps. They worked grueling hours for a spoonful of rice per day. Eventually, 1/3 of the entire population of Cambodia was worked &/or starved to death. This book is the personal account of a survivor of these horrific camps.

Kill Anything That Moves: The Real American War in Vietnam

By: Nick Turse

A debilitating look at the atrocities committed during the Vietnam war. Nick Turse, through some serious investigative journalism, unveiled the side of the Vietnam war swept under the rug by the American government. Difficult to read but it leaves you with a whole new perspective of the “American war”.

Not Travel Related

Acid Dreams

By: Martin A. Lee

The complete social history of LSD in America. It turns out MK Ultra wasn’t just a conspiracy theory. This book tells the entertaining story of the psychedelic revolution & all of its influential players. Including the U.S. government. The CIA’s covert experiments are now all recently declassified. The truth is wilder than any imagination could create.

Ready to start Reading?

Ready to start in on my list of non-fiction books to inspire adventure travel? I’ve never been a fan of kindle or any kind of on-screen reading. I like the feel of a paper book in hand. & since typical thrift shops are currently closed due to Coronavirus, I’ve been nabbing books from Thriftbooks.com . Priced like a thrift store, you’ll be able to find used books for around $4 and shipping for orders over $10 is free.

I am in no way sponsored by Thriftbooks. I just genuinely really like them.

If you want 15% off your first order sign up with this link .

You can also check out my Amazon Book List for a complete list of non-fiction books to inspire adventure travel & an up to date list of everything I’m reading.

For When the World is Ready for Real Adventures Again …

• How to Climb Mount Bromo For Free
• Save Money to Travel the World : How to Finance Long-Term Travel
• Trekking With Orangutans in the Sumatran Jungle

Further Reading...

What’s In My Backpack: The Ultimate Long-Term Travel Packing List

Volun-tourism: The Dark Side to Volunteering Abroad

30 Useful Gifts to Give Backpackers & Travel Lovers

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100 Must-Read Nonfiction Adventure Books

Jessi Lewis

Jessi Lewis has her MFA in fiction and an MA in Writing and Rhetoric. She was one of the founding editors of Cheat River Review and now works to bring her own fiction, poetry and essays to eyes each month.     Twitter: @jessiwrit

View All posts by Jessi Lewis

It’s so interesting to decide how to define adventure , and what we believe should be included in this genre. For some, it requires first-hand accounts of the mountaineering-skydiving-waterfall jumping-lifestyle. For others, it’s all about simply breaking expectations and aiming for excitement and change rather than contentment in daily consistency or predictability. So what is it for you? I’ve tried to include a list here of nonfiction adventure books about internal thought, external challenges, and physical daring.

Please note: You don’t want to take the word “adventure” lightly here. In U.S. film especially, adventure has come to imply a lightheartedness that is often difficult to find in the realities of nonfiction. So, while some of the following works can be about dark subjects in the lightest of ways (Thanks, Sarah Vowell) other works use adventure as an attempt at escape from relentless reality (Here’s to you, Cheryl Strayed).

Also note: There’s an interesting theme in travel writing of tourism in other cultures. This can open eyes to the world, but it can also give an outsider’s viewpoint on a culture. Go into any book you read with eyes wide open to what perspective does.

Anyway, here’s 100 must-read nonfiction adventure books based on real-life boldness that you can read in your daily life comfort if you choose.

What are your favorite nonfiction adventure books?

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21 Best Non-Fiction Adventure Books to Read

Posted by Mac Misseldine May 10, 2019 Updated February 01, 2024

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Fuel your passion for adventure by reading about some of the greatest adventures in human history.

Adventurous fiction is certainly entertaining, but true accounts of adventure and survival are inspiring on another level. Reading about the perils and excitement of fellow adventurers stirs the soul to push harder, achieve more, and appreciate the journey.

Some stories pique our curiosity in the great unknown, pushing us to expand our limits and travel outside of our comfort zone. Others lead us to marvel at the bounds of human achievement, even when the hero fails in their ultimate quest — though we certainly prefer when they succeed.

Weave in a bit of geographical and historical knowledge to fuel our intelligence, and you’ve got a solid weekend curled up with a timeless classic.

As we’re always seeking to inspire our readers, we’ve compiled a list of the best non-fiction adventure books that highlight a variety of human achievements in the great outdoors.

Tales of survival against all odds from the likes of Steven Callahan and Joe Simpson. Stories about finding yourself in the wild from Bill Bryson and Cheryl Strayed. And yes, stories of tragedy when the powerful forces of nature are too much to overcome.

Best Adventure Books – Our Top Picks

Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure junkie, a mystery reader, or a mindful soul seeking deeper insights into the human experience, you’ll find your next great read right here.

Into Thin Air By Jon Krakauer

If Mount Everest has ever piqued your curiosity, read Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mount Everest Disaster .

Adventurist and investigative journalist Jon Krakauer provides a first-hand account of the gargantuan blizzard that claimed eight lives between May 10-11, 1996 — the deadliest Everest climbing season until the avalanches in 2014 and 2015.

His eyewitness account of the events that unfolded at 29,000 feet is a remarkable achievement, a tale that he almost didn’t live to tell.

Krakauer also examines what it is about Mount Everest that continues to attract so many adventurous souls. Specifically, why do people ignore the warning signs, tune out concerned family members, and willingly embark on a journey that may very well kill them?

It’s a truly fascinating account, and yes — it’s better than the movie.

The Man Who Walked Through Time By Colin Fletcher

The Man Who Walked Through Time tells the amazing story of Colin Fletcher’s journey through Grand Canyon on foot. Only a few dozen people have ever traversed the entire length of Grand Canyon National Park, and even fewer have done it all in one trip. Colin Fletcher was the first to pull off the latter.

A self-described compulsive walker, Fletcher began his epic Grand Canyon hiking adventure in June 1963. What followed was two months of human struggle against heat and cold, lack of water, and dwindling supplies.

Despite almost impassable terrain and intense physical hardship, Fletcher walked away from the experience with a new awareness of how humans fit into the vast scheme of things.

His description of the wildlife, geography, and remnants of ancient cultures remind us that Grand Canyon has been around a hell of a lot longer than us, and it may well outlast us.

Grand Obsession By Elias Butler And Tom Myers

If you read The Man Who Walked Through Time , you owe it to yourself to read the biography of Colin Fletcher’s rival, Harvey Butchart. While Fletcher was the first to thru-hike Grand Canyon National Park, Butchart was the first to hike the length of the park in segments. To Butchart, Grand Canyon wasn’t just a pretty hole in the ground — it was a lifelong obsession.

It took Elias Butler and Tom Myers 15 years to complete the research for Grand Obsession: Harvey Butchart and the Exploration of Grand Canyon , and their exhaustive investigative efforts shine through on each page.

The book explores Butchart’s early years as a fatherless child in the rugged mountains of China, his struggles during the Great Depression, and his all-consuming drive for greatness exploring the deepest, most inhospitable reaches of Grand Canyon.

Part biography and part modern-day adventure, Grand Obsession traces Butchart’s footsteps as he climbs, hikes, floats, and bushwhacks his way into Grand Canyon lore, enduring heartbreaking tragedy and personal struggle on the road to eternal fame.

A Walk In The Woods By Bill Bryson

After spending 20 years living in England, Bill Bryson came up with a great way to reacquaint himself with his home country — walking the 2,100-mile Appalachian Trail. After he and his buddy Stephen Katz completed their odyssey, he wrote about their adventures in the instant-classic A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail .

Stretching from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail delivers a stunning landscape of tranquil forests and pristine lakes.

Bryson does an excellent job at describing the beauty of the fragile trail and making a moving plea for its conservation, but it’s his comic genius that takes this adventure book from good to great.

Equal parts adventure, comedy, and celebration, you’ll find yourself longing to visit the Appalachian Trail as you laugh out loud at the bizarre assortment of characters Bryson and Katz encounter on their epic journey.

The Oregon Trail By Francis Parkman

The Oregon Trail: Sketches of Prairie and Rocky-Mountain Life  is one of the few non-fiction adventure books that earns the title of classic American literature.

It’s one of those books that’s proudly displayed on the bookshelf next to decorative copies of Treasure Island and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn , yet often goes unread. A shame, as it’s truly a great story.

The Oregon Trail features the intriguing tale of Francis Parkman’s journey west across the Great Plains in 1846. After reaching Westport, Missouri, by way of stagecoach, boat, and wagon, Parkman embarks on horseback with three companions on a two thousand mile journey.

Since its publication, the book has emerged as a classic narrative of one man’s exploration of the American Wilderness.

Into the Wild By Jon Krakauer

Another excellent book from Jon Krakauer, Into the Wild is a compelling book that evokes the writings of Muir, Thoreau, and Jack London.

The book recounts the tragic mystery of young Chris McCandless, an affluent college graduate who forsook his possessions and personal wealth before hitchhiking to Alaska to live in the wilderness. McCandless’ emaciated body was discovered four months later in September 1992, but the intrigue of his story continues to live on today.

In Into the Wild , Krakauer addresses the questions surrounding Chris McCandless’ story by addressing the seductive and often dangerous pull of the outdoors.

Based on McCandless’ diary, letters, and notes found at his remote campsite, the book pieces together the young man’s story, from what inspired him to adopt a Tolstoyan renunciation of wealth and return to nature, to the costly mistakes that eventually cost him his life.

The movie  is great (Krakauer himself praises Sean Penn’s depiction of the story), but the book is still better.

The Lost City of Z By David Grann

Chances are you’ve seen the award-winning film The Lost City of Z , the story of legendary British explorer Percy Fawcett’s search for an ancient civilization in the Amazon and the mystery surrounding his disappearance in 1925. If you haven’t, it’s definitely worth a Saturday night and a bowl of popcorn.

I’m not always one to read the book after I’ve seen the movie, but in this case it’s absolutely worth reading The Lost City of Z . Yes, you’ll proceed through the narrative with the ultimate spoiler already on your brain, but it’s still a fascinating read.

Countless explorers have perished over the years trying to solve the greatest exploration mystery of the 20th century. The author himself has journeyed into the deadly jungle, so he’s able to speak with a rare sense of authority that only comes from personal experience. You’ll be transfixed from start to finish — even if you already know the ending.

Adrift By Steven Callahan

Adrift tells the true story of Steven Callahan’s harrowing 76 days at sea on an inflatable raft. Callahan is the only man known to have survived more than a month alone at sea, so his account is as unique as it is inspiring.

A seafaring classic, Adrift spent an astounding 36 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list and is definitely a must-have in any adventure library.

It’s worth noting that Adrift by Steven Callahan is not the story behind the film of the same name that debuted in 2018. That story actually comes from the account of Tami Oldham, who spent 41 days at sea when her boat was crippled by Hurricane Raymond in 1983.

If you’re interested in Tami’s story, read Adrift: a True Story of Love and Loss by Tami Oldham Ashcraft.

The Perfect Storm By Sebastian Junger

When three weather systems collided off the coast of Nova Scotia in October 1991, it resulted in an unprecedented tempest with no warning that spawned 100+ foot swells and gale-force winds. It was the storm of the century — the perfect storm.

In his book The Perfect Storm , Sebastian Junger follows the ill-fated journey of six men aboard the Andrea Gail , a swordfishing boat that vanished without a trace during the storm.

Junger details the rescues that took place that night, some of which gave birth to heroes while others added more victims to the unforgiving sea. It’s a tale of courage, terror, and awe, mixed with a fascinating study of the history of the fishing industry and the science of storms.

In The Heart Of The Sea By Nathaniel Philbrick

The story of Captain Ahab and the white whale may have been fiction, but the inspiration for Herman Melville’s classic tale is absolutely real.

In the Heart of the Sea tells the incredible true story of the whaleship Essex , a 240-ton ship that was dashed to pieces by an 80-ton bull sperm whale in the farthest reaches of the South Pacific. Fearing cannibals on nearby islands, the surviving crew piloted their three small boats towards South America 3,000 miles away.

Without ruining the ending, let’s just say it wasn’t a pleasure cruise as the survivors gradually succumbed to thirst, hunger, disease, and fear along the 90-day journey.

In the Heart of the Sea is a gripping tale of adventure and survival at sea, delivering the ultimate portrait of man against nature. The story is impeccably researched and beautifully delivered, a page-turning narrative with a solid place in American literary history.

Wild By Cheryl Strayed

Hailed by critics as one of the best books of the year when it debuted in 2014, Wild shares the inspiring journey of Cheryl Strayed.

Feeling her life was in shambles, Strayed embarked on a personal odyssey to find herself on the Pacific Crest Trail. Driven by sheer will with no training or experience, Strayed hiked over a thousand miles from the Mojave Desert to Washington State by herself.

Strayed’s journey to find healing is a heartening tale of a woman forging ahead against all odds. It’s also wonderfully entertaining, sparkling with warmth and humor while capturing the suspense and fear of tackling such an epic undertaking on her own.

Touching the Void By Joe Simpson

Simon Yates and Joe Simpson had just reached the summit of a 21,000-foot peak in the Andes when Simpson plummeted from the vertical face of an ice ledge and broke his leg. Yates struggled to lower his partner to safety for hours in the midst of a raging blizzard, but was ultimately forced to cut the rope before he was pulled to his own death.

Certain that his friend had perished, Yates returned to base camp overcome with guilt and grief. Of course, if the story ended there, Touching the Void wouldn’t be much of a book — and the fact that Joe Simpson is the author is a bit of a spoiler.

Simpson miraculously survived the fall, and although he was trapped in a deep crevasse, starving, crippled, and severely frostbitten, he managed to crawl over the cliffs and canyons of the Andes to base camp, arriving mere hours before Yates planned to break camp.

How Simpson and Yates conquered the agony of those three traumatic days is a heroic tale of survival, suffering, and fear — a moving demonstration of true friendship and courage.

The Worst Journey In The World By Aspley Cherry-Garrard

In The Worst Journey in the World , Aspley Cherry-Garrard provides a gripping account of Robert Falcon’s ill-fated expedition to the South Pole. One of only three men to survive the notorious winter journey, Cherry-Garrard himself was with the search party who discovered the remains of Scott and his men after they succumbed to starvation and the brutal cold.

Based on his personal experience as the youngest member of Scott’s team and the diaries of his fellow explorers, Cherry-Garrard lays out the legendary expedition in vivid detail.

It’s an adventurous narrative, but more importantly it’s an appropriate memorial for these early explorers who lost their lives attempting a feat that’s still nearly impossible today.

Endurance By Alfred Lansing

In 1914, Sir Ernest Shackleton and 27 crewmembers set sail for the South Atlantic aboard the Endurance , planning to cross the Antarctic overland. By October 1915, the Endurance was stranded half a continent away from their destination, trapped in impenetrable ice.

The ship was crushed by the expanding ice in the spring, leaving Shackleton’s crew marooned without a ship in the harshest environment on the planet.

However, as the book Endurance goes on to demonstrate, you can crush a ship, but you cannot crush human grit. Shackleton and his crew miraculously survived for seventeen months, drifting on ice packs, attacked by sea leopards, and surviving on sea lion and polar bear meat while their extremities developed frostbite.

It’s a truly remarkable tale of dogged determination and the will to survive amidst seemingly insurmountable odds. To be honest, it makes modern expeditions look pretty pampered.

A Short Walk In The Hindu Kush By Eric Newby

After spending a decade in the fashion industry, Eric Newby decided he needed a change. So, as any logical career-changer would, he took four days of training in Wales before hiking the Hindu Kush.

A Short Walk in the Hindu Kush follows Newby and his friend through the formidable peaks of the Nuristan Mountains in northeast Afghanistan on the greatest adventure of their lives.

The story takes the reader to a region few Westerners have visited, delivering a story that’s fraught with triumphant highs and terrifying lows. The author’s style is admittedly a little unorthodox, but the thrill of adventure combined with his keen wit make for an entertaining read.

Seven Years In Tibet By Heinrich Harrer

In Heinrich Harrer’s fascinating memoir Seven Years in Tibet , the Austrian mountaineer recounts his adventures as one of the first Westerners to enter Tibet and encounter the Dalai Lama.

The book covers his escape from a British internment camp in India in 1944, his journey to Lhasa, and the ensuing years he spent living with the Tibetan people. Harrer eventually grew to become a tutor and friend of the 14th Dalai Lama.

Given his kinship with the Dalai Lama and his presence in Tibet just before the Chinese invaded the country in 1950, Harrer’s memoir offers incredible insights into contemporary Tibetan culture.

On one hand, it’s a fascinating adventure book; on the other hand, it’s a sobering glimpse into the final days of an independent Tibetan state prior to the Chinese invasion.

Wind, Sand and Stars By Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

One of National Geographic’s Top 10 adventure titles, winner of the National Book Award, and recipient of the Grand Prix of the Académie Francaise, Wind, Sand and Stars is one of the most popular works ever written about flying. Even better, it’s written by the philosophical master of prose Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, who you may be surprised to hear was an early pioneer of aviation.

Wind, Sand and Stars captures the grandeur, danger, and isolation of flight in eloquent prose. Saint-Exupéry offers his opinions and experiences on subjects like heroism, death, friendship, and solidarity among colleagues, ultimately illustrating his thoughts on what makes life worth living.

If you’re one of those adults who still gets a sense of childlike excitement when an airplane takes off and you feel the brief tug of gravity pulling you back to earth, this book belongs on your TBR list.

Kon-Tiki By Thor Heyerdahl

There’s an old story in Polynesian folklore that says the South Sea Islands were settled long ago by an ancient race from thousands of miles to the east.

When scientists scorned Thor Heyerdahl, a respected biologist, for believing the stories were true, he set out to prove it was actually possible. What better way to prove the impossible than to do it yourself?

Heyerdahl rallied a group of five other adventurous souls and built a primitive raft from balsa wood, bamboo, and hemp — the same materials that would have been available to pre-Columbian sailors in South America. The group set sail in Peru, eventually traveling 4,300 nautical miles over three months until they reached the Polynesian island of Puka Puka.

Not only did Heyerdahl give credence to Polynesian folklore, his adventures on the high seas make for a riveting read in the book documenting their expedition — Kon-Tiki (named after their raft). Heyerdahl’s adventure has gone down in nautical legend as a feat of courage and endurance, a magnificent saga of man versus the sea.

Journal of the Dead By Jason Kersten

Journal of the Dead  is the perfect adventure book for true crime fans. Combining the best features of both genres, author Jason Kersten takes on the true story of two friends who become stranded in the desert at Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Starving, dehydrated, and on the verge of death, the friends made a suicide pact as the buzzards circled overhead. When rescuers eventually discovered the lone survivor, they were shocked when he freely admitted to stabbing his friend in a mercy killing.

In Journal of the Dead , Kersten uses interviews, profiles, and the friends’ shared journal to retell the story of their fateful journey into the New Mexico desert.

The book combines the best features of the adventure and true crime genres, taking you through the gritty details of their expedition and the perplexing nature of the subsequent murder trial.

The Blue Tattoo By Margot Mifflin

When 13-year-old Olive Oatman and her family headed west to join the Mormon settlers in 1851, they had dreams of a bright future surrounded by people of like-minded faith. Six years later, Olive was ransomed back to “her people” by the Mohave Indians. What happened in between is an incredible story.

In The Blue Tattoo , Margot Mifflin tackles the story of Olive Oatman through the letters and diaries of Oatman’s friends and relatives. It details how her family was brutally murdered by Yavapai Indians before the orphan spent a year in slavery. She was traded to the Mohave Indians about a year later, who tattooed her face and raised her as their own, fully assimilating her into their tribe.

Olive Oatman was an instant celebrity when she returned to American society, and she ultimately married a wealthy banker in Texas. Her story has since become legend, inspiring radio plays, film, fiction, artwork, and an episode of Death Valley Days starring none other than Ronald Reagan. But Mifflin’s account raises an interesting perspective: did Olive Oatman actually want to go home?

Desert Solitaire By Edward Abbey

Desert Solitaire was originally published in 1968, but its cry to preserve the natural beauty of the American West is just as relevant today as it was half a century ago. Given the rapid development of the modern world and the gradual deterioration of the earth’s natural wonders, one could argue it’s even more poignant today.

Edward Abbey wrote Desert Solitaire while working as a ranger at Arches National Park (then a National Monument) outside Moab, Utah, and you can sense his deep devotion to the land in his work.

As Abbey reflects on the condition of our remaining wilderness and the dichotomy between the modern world and the natural world, he also delves into his own personal struggle with morality. The passionate, poetic memoir offers a rare view into a man’s quest to experience nature in its purest form.

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Mac is a digital marketer and freelance writer based in Pleasant Grove, Utah. He enjoys exploring the countless trails that the Beehive State has to offer, though his favorite outdoor adventures involve a snowboard and fresh powder.

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17 Best Travel Adventure Books

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Dreaming of an adventure? These travel adventure books will spark your wanderlust!

While I am an avid traveler, I am also a bit of a wimp. The extent of my “extreme” travel adventures was attempting (and failing) to summit a volcano in Guatemala.

When it came down to it, I opted to stay in the warmth of my tent instead of scrambling the final 1,000 feet to the top in the pitch darkness at four in the morning.

So it’s safe to say that while I may not be that adventurous myself, I LOVE getting swept away reading about crazy adventures that happened to other people.

There is nothing like being on the edge of my seat as I read about people facing peril and defying death as they survive after being stranded in the wilderness, hiking solo across large swaths of land, or brave a deathly mountain summit. It transports me without leaving the comfort of home!

So if you are craving an adventure too, these are the best travel adventure books that will fuel your wanderlust and have you staying up late to finish them.

Where we love to grab our travel adventure books:

• Sign up for a free trial of Audible:  Get 30 days of free access to thousands of audiobooks, and one free premium title of your choice. Perfect for listening on the go!
• Sign up for a free trial of Kindle Unlimited:  Get 30 days of free access to unlimited ebook reading on any device. You will unlock access to over two million titles instantly!
• Sign up for a free trial of Amazon Prime:  Get 30 days of a free trial offering free two-day shipping on all purchases, plus access to hundreds of new ebooks each month.

Best Travel Adventure Books

Wild by Cheryl Strayed

This travel memoir follows Cheryl’s journey hiking the Pacific Crest Trail solo. Driven by grief after her mother’s death, she embarked on a hike more than one thousand miles long at age twenty-six for an unforgettable experienced that maddened, strengthened, and ultimately healed her.

Buy on Amazon | View in Goodreads

Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer

This gripping nonfiction account of a disastrous Mount Everest expedition is told in a way that will have you flipping the pages long through the night until you’ve finished it. Jon Krakauer is a journalist who was invited along on a fateful expedition that left several of his fellow hikers dead.

Bad Karma by Paul Wilson

In the summer of 1978, twenty-one-year-old Paul Wilson jumps at the chance to join two local icons on a dream surf trip to Mexico, unaware their ultimate destination lies in the heart of drug cartel country. This exhilarating travel memoir will make you feel like you are there.

Lands of Lost Borders by Kate Harris

Canadian Kate Harris dreamed of adventures ever since she was young. In between studying at Oxford and MIT, she set off with her childhood friend on the adventure of a lifetime: bicycling the Silk Road. Her memoir follows her journey exploring remote Central Asia by bike.

Tracks by Robyn Davidson

Robyn Davidson completed an epic adventure when she walked alone more than 1,700 miles through the Australian Outback with four camels and her dog at age twenty-seven. Tracks is her memoir detailing the experience and the people she met along the way.

The Lost City of the Monkey God by Douglas Preston

Journalist Douglas Preston and a team of scientists embark on a harrowing adventure into the heart of Honduras, in search of a legendary lost city in the middle of the jungle.

Alone in Antarctica by Felicity Aston

Felicity Aston, physicist and meteorologist, took two months off from all human contact as she became the first woman, and only the third person in history, to ski across the entire continent of Antarctica alone. With just her cross-country skis, she embarked on an epic journey across the ice.

A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson

The Appalachian Trail is one of America’s biggest adventures, stretching over 2,100 miles from Georgia to Maine, a journey not for the faint of heart. Travel writer Bill Bryson tackles the trail and writes about his experience in this memoir, which is both funny and moving.

The Lost City of Z by David Grann

In 1925, a British explorer ventured into the Amazon rainforest in search of a fabled civilization. He never returned. Eighty years later, a journalist retraces his footsteps in an attempt to find out what really happened, and discover the truth of this mythical Amazonian city.

Wild by Nature by Sarah Marquis

Adventurer Sarah Marquis chronicles her ambitious journey hiking solo over 10,000 miles around the world, from the Gobi Desert to Siberia, in this travel memoir.

Touching the Void by Joe Simpson

This harrowing story follows two young hikers attempting to complete an unclimbed route in the Peruvian Andes when a horrific accident during their descent occurs.

438 Days by Jonathan Franklin

This is a remarkable true survival story about a Salvadoran fisherman working in Mexico when he got lost at sea for 438 days before washing ashore on the far side of the Pacific.

The Sex Lives of Cannibals by J. Maarten Troost

He expected paradise, but what he got was an entirely different story. This memoir chronicles the author’s hilarious two-year odyssey in the distant South Pacific island nation of Kiribati, and all the mishaps and misadventures he had along the way while he was there.

Dark Star Safari by Paul Theroux

A rattletrap bus, dugout canoe, cattle truck, armed convoy, ferry, and train are just some manners of transportation Paul Theroux takes on his overland journey from Cairo to Cape Town. In the course of his epic voyage, he endures danger, delay, and dismaying circumstances.

The Beach by Alex Garland

This is the book that inspired thousands of backpackers to make their way to Thailand in search of paradise. This novel is about a young backpacker who arrives in Bangkok, learning about a mythical location known only as “The Beach” that is the closest thing to Eden on Earth.

Vagabonding by Rolf Potts

Part travel memoir and part practical how-to guide, this book provides advice for the art of long-term travel, as told by veteran budget traveler Rolf Potts.

In a Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson

Travel writer Bill Bryson provides a wonderful glimpse into traveling Australia in his book  In a Sunburned Country . He brings to life the land of the friendliest inhabitants, the hottest, driest weather, and the most peculiar and lethal wildlife to be found on the planet.

These are some of the best travel adventure books.

Have you read any of these travel adventure books? Do you have any other favorite books that I should add to this list? Let me know in the comments below!

Related:  25 Brilliant Travel Memoirs by Women

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25 Best Travel Memoirs and Non-Fiction Books about Travel

One of the best ways to learn about a destination is to read someone else’s account of it. These non-fiction books will inspire wanderlust all over the globe. In this post we asked bloggers for their recommendations for their favourite non-fiction travel books and this post is full of inspiring destinations, memoirs and books about travel and self-discovery. Here are the 25 best travel memoirs and non-fiction travel books to inspire wanderlust.

How Not to Travel the World: Adventures of a Disaster-Prone Backpacker by Lauren Juliffe

Recommended by Book It Let’s Go!

How not to travel the world is a travel memoir by well-known travel blogger Lauren Juliffe who set off on a yearlong adventure to see the world with zero experience and common sense. Lauren elaborates on stories from her blog Never Ending Footsteps and tells stories about how she navigates her way through Europe before meeting a guy online and on a whim decides to jet off to Thailand to meet him in person.

There are a series of misadventures that make you cringe, roll your eyes at her naivety and laugh out loud but ultimately you end up rooting for her all the way through and wondering what could possibly happen next.

Step by Step By Simon Reeve

Recommended by Ben from Ticket 4 Two Please

If you’re from the UK, you’ll be familiar with the work of Simon Reeve. The TV presenter and travel journalist has been gracing our screens since the early 2000s, bringing far-flung destinations directly to our living rooms for over 20 years. 

What you may be less familiar with however, is his journey to where he is today. Through his book, Step by Step, you are given a unique insight into the early life of the TV personality and how he became the face of contemporary British travel documentaries. 

In Step by Step, a fascinating recount of his life, you will learn how the 9/11 disaster had a profound impact on Reeve’s career, as well as how he was able to overcome challenging circumstances in his youth, to become the man he is today. From overcoming deadly diseases in Gabon, to discovering the ‘gates to hell’ in Turkmenistan, Reeve has had some truly wonderful life experiences.

If you can be sure of one thing, after reading Step by Step, even the most avid stay-at-home person will have a sense of wanderlust that they simply cannot shake. If you are a fan of adventure travel and discovering remote, often inhospitable destinations, then Step by Step is the perfect read for you.

The White Masai by Corinne Hofmann

Recommended by Martina from PlacesOfJuma

One of my favourite travel books about Kenya is the “The White Masai” by Corinne Hofmann. This piece is autobiographical and gives deep insights into the cultural life of Africa. It is about a 27 years young Swiss woman named Corinne, who is on vacation in Kenya and fell in love with the Maasai warrior Lketinga.

Overwhelmed by her feelings, she decides to settle down with him in Kenya and give up her old life including her relationship, her lovely boutique and she also sold her apartment in Switzerland. In this exciting book you experience Corinne’s unique story about the simple life in the bush, about her love for Kenya, but also the tragic problems of this unusual relationship and the severe illnesses she had to endure.

The Motorcycle Diaries by Ernesto Guevara

Recommended by Carley from Home to Havana

One of the most classic road trip books of all time, the Motorcycle Diaries is a compilation of the diaries of Ernesto “Che” Guevara as he travelled from his home in Argentina across all of South America, and the inspiration he found along the way.

The diaries follow his mishaps and misadventures through some of Latin America’s most well-known destinations, including Chilean Patagonia, the Atacama Desert, Machu Picchu, and much more. While this book is the perfect travel companion or inspiration for a trip to South America and some of its most emblematic landmarks, the Motorcycle Diaries is also one of the most important  books for travel to Cuba . This inside peek at the personal story and inspiration of the future revolutionary who shaped Cuba offers important insight into the impact he still has on Cuba today.

The Bone Man of Benares by Terry Tarnoff

Recommended by Nadine from The Expat Mummy

The Bone Man of Benares is the book that inspired me to travel and to take each day at a time.  A story of a hippie who headed out across the world during the 1970’s.  This true life account, follows Terry across the globe, through Thailand, Laos, Sweden, Amsterdam, Paris, Greece,  Kenya,  India, Nepal and Indonesia, amongst others.  His freewheeling attitude sees him bounce from country-to-country meeting mad characters and learning a whole lot about himself in the process.  I love the insight into tourist hotspots before they were ‘cool’, including my own current home, Kenya. It was a different time of life for travelling. A time when you could bum your way around the world with little more than a guitar and a smile.

Terry has an enviable, laid back attitude, to some pretty dark encounters. I love that he shares his raw emotions regarding love and life, his description of the places he visits and the facts that he immerses himself in the destinations spending months or years in each place rather than just drifting through. 

To Shake the Sleeping Self by Jedidiah Jenkins

Recommended by James from Wanderus Living

To Shake the Sleeping Self is a true story about a young man who biked from Oregon to Argentina. The non-fiction book is not just a synopsis of different countries, but more focused on the journey and struggles that he endured. For anyone wanting to explore and travel in a more connected way, a bicycle is a great cheap option. 

The book highlights how travel and adventure is more than just visiting unique places, but rather made by the people, your state of mind and attitude. Jedidiah followed the  California coast , to pass into Mexico and then went all the way to Patagonia. His story is truly moving and empowering as it might make you want to bike the Pan-American trail.

Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed

Recommended by Anisa from  Norfolk Local Guide

Wild is the true story of Cheryl Strayed’s solo 1,100 mile hike of the Pacific Coast Trail.  At age 26, after her mother’s death and the end of her marriage, she goes on the hike to discover more about herself and deal with her grief.  She had no previous hiking experience. 

The travel memoir starts by explaining the course of events that lead Cheryl to do the challenging hike.  Then you go along on the journey, starting in the Mojave Desert, through California and Oregon to the Bridge of the Gods in Washington where she reached her goal.  

It was inspiring to read about how Cheryl managed to complete the journey on her own.  She came close to running out of money and got herself in several precarious situations. In addition to the long distance, she had to overcome difficult terrain, weather, and even other hikers.   It wasn’t easy but by the end, she had grown so much as a person and had experiences to treasure for the rest of her life.  The book has made me consider doing a similar challenge, hopefully one day.

Wild was made into a movie in 2014, starring Reese Witherspoon.

Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life by William Finnegan

Recommended by Erin from Flying off the Bookshelf

William Finnegan doesn’t just love to surf — he’s obsessed with it. This travel memoir chronicles his love for surfing and how it has taken him around the world, from his beginnings in California, to his childhood in  Hawaii , to his journey through Fiji to find waves no one had ever discovered. Waves also call to him in Australia, South Africa, Portugal and New York.

In fact, no matter where he finds himself in the world (he spent many years as an international journalist), he is always seeking out the closest surf. His love for the sport is contagious, and you’ll find yourself falling in love with the idea of surfing and longing to travel to some of the places he finds as his obsession takes him around the globe.

Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long & Happy Life by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles 

Recommended by Alyse from The Invisible Tourist

This non-fiction travel book is the result of months of research into why people on the islands of Okinawa, Japan live the longest in the world. In fact, the book is a deep-dive into the reasons why these small islands have the highest concentration of supercentenarians (people who live to reach 110 years or more). What’s their secret?

The answer is the residents have all found their  ikigai  – their reason for being. The very thing that makes them happy to continue to get out of bed each day, even in their old age! Due to the islands being rather isolated, Okinawans embrace a close-knit community and have a strong connection with nature. Their healthy diets and dedication to each other provide them with a sense of purpose, contributing to improved health.

Whether you have already found your  ikigai  or are still searching for it deep within, this is one of the most unique  books on Japan  and their culture to inspire you. The intriguing principles discussed in the book are enough to entice you to jump on the next plane to tropical Okinawa to immerse yourself amongst the friendly warmth of locals and see the ideology in action!

Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

 Recommended by Debbie from World Adventurists

A married woman realizes that though she has what most dream of, she is unhappy in her marriage. She realizes that materialistic possessions are meaningless and begins her search to find her life’s true meaning. Taking a leap of faith, she risks everything to embark on a travel journey of self-discovery around the world , traveling solo for a year. As she travels, she finds nourishment in food in Italy, the power of prayer and spiritual development in India, and inner peace and true love in Bali.

Eat Pray Love is a great lesson about self-discovery and what is possible when you start living life on your terms, instead of what society expects of you.

Eat Pray Love was also made into a movie in 2010, starring Julia Roberts.

Holy Cow! An Indian Adventure by Sarah Macdonald

Recommended by Nilima from The Traveling CA

Sarah Macdonald is an Australian journalist, author and radio presenter. She left her successful career in Australia for love, to join her boyfriend in New Delhi. The extreme contrast between the two worlds and her journey to try and find herself in India is narrated hilariously in this book.

Through Sarah’s experiences, we learn more about the many cultures and traditional religious practices across this immense country like when she went to Kerala and was stunned by the extravagant temple celebrations of the state. Holy Cow takes us on a spiritual adventure across all of India and her encounter with the various religions practised in India-Hinduism, Sikhism, Islam, Parsis, Jainism, Buddhism & Christianity.

From the extravagant festivals to the quiet reflections, Sarah wants to explore all that India has to offer. India is a land of festivals where she has enjoyed and described their exuberant celebrations. 

She hoped that she may gain answers to the perplexing life questions about her own existence amidst the chaos in her life. These spiritual experiences finally help her come to terms with her inner peace.

For anyone planning to travel to India, I recommend reading this travel book to understand different religious and spiritual offerings of the country and soften the cultural differences.

First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers by Loung Ung

Recommended by Anna from Packing Light Travel

A compelling read before or after visiting Cambodia is Loung Ung’s stirring account of her life under the Pol Pot regime in First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers. The non-fictional account helps place the Khmer Rouge era of 1975 to 1979 into perspective and provides a powerful background for visiting Cambodia’s dark tourism sites. It also helps explain the relative absence of people aged 60 or older in Cambodian society and enhances a visitor’s appreciation for how Cambodians have emerged from such a tragic period.

Exploring Cambodia’s dark history is a critical component of a visit to this South-East Asian country that has suffered more than most places on earth. One of the best ways to do so is to visit the interrogation centre of S-21 (Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocidal Crime) and the ‘killing fields’ of Choeung Ek in Phnom Penh.

Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle by Dervla Murphy

Recommended by Sophie from Just Heading Out

Full Tilt is a memoir based on Dervla Murphy’s travel log and the letters she wrote home to friends and family during her epic adventure. In 1963, she decided to travel from her home country of  Ireland  to India, by bicycle. She was only 21 at the time!

She sets out with minimal luggage during one of the worst winters in Europe. Of course, she encounters many more obstacles along the way, such as melting tires while cycling through the desert, exhaustion, and injuries. She has to trade her bike for the back of a truck, a donkey, or an airplane on occasion, but never relents from her goal of reaching India.

Throughout the book Dervla remains amazed by the warm hospitality, natural beauty, and rich cultures she encounters. Her descriptions of the world as she gets to know it, especially her love for the Middle East, are poetic yet realistic. She doesn’t sugar coat, but appreciates everything for what it is.

The Places in Between by Rory Stewart

Recommended by Erica from Travels With Erica

The Places in Between is written by former British diplomat Rory Stewart and chronicles his journey walking across north eastern Afghanistan in 2002.  Rory makes the journey alone and relies on friendly locals to help him along the way. 

Rory does an excellent job sharing a different side of Afghanistan than the one you typically see in the media.  He shares a more gentle, personal side of the country and focuses on the locals and their experiences rather than the broader socio-political part of the country.

It is a must read for any travel lover looking for an exciting story about a country that is often not talked about.

Turn Right at Machu Picchu by Mark Adams

Recommended by Trisha from  Try Wandering More

Turn Right at Machu Pichu details Mark Adam’s fascinating journey through the treacherous yet stunning landscapes of Peru’s Inca Trail. He retraces the footsteps of the explorer Hiram Bingham, who supposedly discovered Macchu Picchu back in 1911, to understand why the explorer is recast as a villain a century later.  He visits several Inca sites, tells Bingham’s story, discusses Peruvian history, and ultimately brings to light exactly what Macchu Pichu is.

This non-fiction travel book not only interests the reader with its telling of Peruvian history, but also entertains through observations, anecdotes, and humourous tidbits by the author- an office-going adventure writer who finally goes on an adventure himself. 

Amazon Woman: Facing Fears, Chasing Dreams, and a Quest to Kayak the World’s Largest River from Source to Sea by Darcy Gaetcher

Recommended by Megan from Red Around The World

Amazon Woman by Darcy Gaetcher is a non-fiction travel book chronicling her time kayaking from the Amazon headwaters to the Atlantic Ocean with her two kayaking companions.  This is perfect for adventure lovers, whether you love adventure yourself or just reading about it.  It’s even better if you’re very interested in the Amazon Rainforest.  

This 148-day endeavor began on Darcy’s 35th birthday.  She planned to kayak the entire length of the Amazon River through Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil with her boyfriend of twelve years and a mutual kayaking friend/colleague.  She would also be the first woman to do this.  Ever.

They encounter twenty-five days of whitewater rapids, illegal loggers, narco-traffickers, Shining Path rebels, ruthless poachers, and surprisingly friendly locals.  More often than not, the emotional waters were more difficult than the class five rapids on the river.  

Elsewhere: One Woman, One Rucksack, One Lifetime of Travel by Rosita Boland

Recommended by Megan from Hey I’m Reading

Elsewhere by Rosita Boland is an inspiring  solo female travel memoir  from her time galivanting across the globe, always dreaming of Elsewhere.  

After her first life-changing solo trip to Australia as a young graduate, Rosita became enchanted with travel.  Over the next 30 years, she visited some of the most remote parts of the world on her own carrying little more than a backpack and a diary.  

This is a collection of nine journeys from her life exploring the world, showing how people you meet and experiences you have can change the shape and course of your life dramatically.

Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt

Recommended by Erin from Savannah First Timer

Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt is a must-read before any trip to Savannah! The book was on the New York Times best seller list for a record-breaking (at the time) 216 weeks and is widely credited for the millions of travelers who visit Savannah each year.

The non-fiction book focuses on the story of Savannahian Jim Williams, a local antiques dealer and philanthropist who was tried four times for the murder of his lover, a male prostitute named Danny Hansford.

 Williams was finally acquitted but then died shortly thereafter — in the same room where he was alleged to have shot Mr. Hansford. The book is filled with fascinating characters, such as The Lady Chablis – a transgender performance artist – who bring the eccentricities of Savannah to full light.

Many of the homes and landmarks featured within the book are currently available for touring, such as the Mercer Williams House and  Bonaventure Cemetery , which is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world.  

Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

Recommended by Agnes from The Van Escape

Into the Wild is a book by the American journalist, writer, and traveler Jon Krakauer, published in 1996. It is non-fiction. It tells a true story about the life of Chris McCandless.

Chris McCandless as a young man, has abandoned everything. He left loving family and friends . He gave away the money intended for his studies to start on a journey that would give him real freedom. To find this freedom, he decided to travel through America to Alaska. But when he reached Alaska, he clashes with the power of nature, which has no mercy for inexperienced travelers. And he realizes that he misses society.

Based on the memories of Chris’s friends and people he met along the way, and the journal he left behind, the author creates an intriguing portrait of an idealist and a loner. Jon Krakauer is following the “Supertramp” as McCandles called himself. He tries to explain the mystery of Chris’s decisions and his motives.

This beautiful and moving story of youth, rebellion, and the search for freedom has been inspiring for years. On its basis, Sean Penn directed an unforgettable film, Into the Wild, in 2007. It started a series of young tourists’  trips to Alaska in the footsteps of Chris .

Into the wild was made into a movie in 2007, starring Emile Hirsch

All Roads Lead to Ganga by Ruskin Bond

Recommended by Sinjana from Backpack N Xplore

Ruskin Bond is an Indian author of British descent whose literary works have made our childhood memorable. No one has been able to capture the Himalayan landscape, its people and culture with so much love and authenticity as Ruskin bond. In this travel memoir Ruskin Bond talks about the different villages on the banks of river Ganga – the holy river of India.

Ganga, the longest river in India originates from the snowclad mountains in the North and flows through the entire northern plains till it merges with the Bay of Bengal in the East. Ruskin Bond tells stories of the villages he went to, the people, the culture in his unique delightful style that is sure to bring a smile to your face. It is one of the  best books about India  that will take you on a virtual journey through the offbeat places in the country.

A Month in Siena, by Hisham Matar

Recommended by Isabelle from Issys Escapades

A Month in Siena is a memoir by Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Hisham Matar. A short book of just over 100 pages, the memoir traces the month that Matar spent in Siena Italy , observing art, dealing with grief and interacting with the local Sienese people. 

When he was a teenager, Matar’s father disappeared, a victim of the Gaddafi regime in Libya of whom he had been a vocal opponent of. In his grief, Matar took to visiting galleries and developed a keen appreciation and affinity for the centuries old Sienese school of artists. Burnt out after the success of The Return , Matar decides that it’s finally time to visit the hometown of the source of his comfort, booking a solo trip for himself to Siena, Italy. 

While Matar clearly knows his art history, the book is not just about the art, but is as much the tale of a man dealing with grief and passing his observations on the human condition. A beautifully written read, that will have readers both mulling over humankind and lusting for Siena.

How to Be a Family: The Year I Dragged My Kids Around the World to Find a New Way to Be Together by Dan Kois

Recommended by Erin from Three Is Us

Author Dan Kois lives in the Eastern United States with his wife and two kids. They worked long hours and had a busy extra-curricular life with their girls. On a work trip, Kois visits Iceland and sees how families there spend time together every night, soaking in hot pools while in America, his family is too busy and unhappy. He wonders how this family time is possible, and how to achieve it for his family?

Kois and his family decide to take a year to travel and discover how to be happy as a family. Over the next year, they spend four months each in New Zealand, Costa Rica, the Netherlands and end in rural America.

While the book doesn’t read like a travel guide, the author is honest, relatable and gives an insight into slow travel and what it’s like living in each of the four places. It also highlights some of the challenges of travelling as a family, especially with pre-teens.

This is a must-read book for any family thinking of travelling long-term and will open your eyes to the possibilities of living like locals while slow travelling.

Travels with Charley in Search of America by John Steinbeck

Recommended by Chris from Chrisismink

John Steinbeck may be better known for his other works such as, Of Mice and Men or The Grapes of Wrath , but Travels with Charley provides a unique insight into mid-century America and the open road. Travels with Charley is a travel memoir based on Steinbeck’s cross-country journey from New York to the West Coast and back along the Southern United States with his dog, Charley, and his old pick-up truck.

Along the way, he laments about the state of America including industrialization, the attitude of the people, and the countryside in his journal and letters to his wife back in New York. In many ways, some of the views in the book still reflect the world today.  As we go on our journeys in the present day with our own canine companions, take a moment to journal your observations about your country and reflect, is this the country you want for the future?

Riding the Iron Rooster: By Train Through China by Paul Theroux

Recommended by Ariana from  World of Travels with Kids

You either like Paul Theroux or you don’t.  He can be cynical and not politically correct; yet his insights into the places he travels are fascinating! I’m showing my age as I share two books that inspired much of my own 20 something wanderlust through Central Asia and China. 

Paul Theroux published the Great Railway Bazaar in the mid 1970’s, and Riding the Iron Rooster in the 1980’s. The memoir was the perfect travel companion to learning more about the deep heart of China and its fascinating people.  It’s also about travel, the good and the bad, and the travellers you meet on the way.  In fact, I loved this so much I’m going to start reading it again after writing this review.

The Geography of Bliss: One Grump’s Search for the Happiest Places in the World by Eric Weiner

Recommended by Amy from The Fairies Travel Blog

My favourite travel book is ‘The Geography of Bliss’ by Eric Weiner. It is a travel memoir of a self-confessed grump on a journey to find the worlds happiest nation. In the book, Eric travels to the Netherlands, home of the World Happiness Database, to study the facts about happiness before embarking on a round the world trip to some of the most happy countries, like Iceland , Qatar and Thailand, and one of the least happy, Moldova.

The Geography of Bliss explores what these countries are doing that makes the nation so happy, physical and cultural differences and whether we can achieve this level of happiness by visiting or even living in these countries. It ponders some deep questions such as whether money can buy happiness, whether the government should take an active role in a nation’s happiness and whether your level of happiness can change over time but is still light enough that it’s an enjoyable read. The book is funny, interesting and most of all makes me want to set off on a similar journey of my own!

Looking for fiction books for wanderlust inspiration? Check out this post !

Some great recommendations here and we have added loads of these travel memoirs to our ‘to be read’ list. Let us know in the comments which is your favourite non-fiction travel book.

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Steph is the main writer of Book It Let's Go! and is arguably the better half of the couple. She is an expat originally from England currently residing in St Kitts where she teaches veterinary students. In 2019 Steph packed up her old life, her husband Lewis, and their 2 cats in to leave the cold and wet behind in exchange for beaches and palm trees. Now she has made the leap to move abroad she has no plans to return anytime soon and wants to help others make the leap to move abroad too. Steph is currently enjoying being based in the Caribbean and doing some island hopping while planning her next big adventure with Lewis.

10 thoughts on “ 25 Best Travel Memoirs and Non-Fiction Books about Travel ”

“Jupiter’s Travels” by Ted Simon. Ted rides a Triumph Tiger motorcycle through 43 countries from 1973 to 1977. “The Rugged Road” by Teresa Wallach. Two women ride a motorcycle from London to Cape Town through the Sahara in 1934/1935. “Adrift” by Steven Callahan. Accidentally travels across the Atlantic for 76 days in a raft after his boat sinks. “The Masked Rider: Cycling in West Africa” by late Rush drummer Neil Peart. Peart takes a month long bicycle ride in Cameroon. (Additionally Peart wrote a book titled “Ghost Rider: Travels on the Healing Road” following an extended motorcycle ride around North America following the deaths of his daughter and wife.)

Thank you for your suggestions 🙂 will have to check these out!

I love the mix of books you included! My Goodreads list definitely just grew!

I know that feeling! My kindle wish list is huge!

This list definitely inspires my sense of wanderlust for travel!

Sooo much wanderlust!

What a great list! I have read a few of these but see some others I want to add to my list.

The contributing bloggers really went all out on this one 🙂

What a great list! Will have to look into these for next reads. Thanks for sharing!

Thank you Kathryn 🙂

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Best Non Fiction Adventure Books

Sometimes real life is better than fiction – especially when it comes to adventure books about true stories that amaze and inspire!

So to help you find your next page-turner, we’ve rounded up our picks for the best non fiction adventure books that you can start reading today.

These must-read non-fiction books offer real-life stories of adventure, excitement, and courage. And we must admit it: they’re all page-turners from the first page to the last!

So with all that said, here’s our list of 19 best non fiction adventure books that you need to add to your reading list!

1. Into Thin Air: A Personal Account Of The Mount Everest Disaster

• Author : Jon Krakauer
• Publication Date : 1997
• Publisher : Anchor Books
• Genre : Non Fiction, Adventure, Memoir

Is there a bigger adventure than one that takes you to the top of the world? Into Thin Air is the memoir of Jon Krakauer, who climbed and survived Mt. Everest during one of its worst-ever recorded seasons. It’s an edge-of-your-seat account that’s as inspiring as it is gripping.

2. Into The Wild

• Publication Date : 1996
• Genre : Non Fiction, Biography, Travel

You might have watched Into the Wild – the inspiring film about adventurer Christopher McCandless, starring Emile Hirsch.

Well, here’s the book, and it’s a must-read if you loved the movie – or often think about abandoning it all and going on an adventure!

3. Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage

• Author : Alfred Lansing
• Publication Date : 1959
• Publisher : Carroll & Graf Publishers
• Genre : Non Fiction, History, Adventure

In 1914, explorer Ernest Shackleton journeyed to the South Pole on an adventure that almost cost the lives of him and his 27-strong crew. Here’s everything that happened (and a lot did happen!), told in incredible detail by American reporter Alfred Lansing.

4. Touching The Void: The True Story Of One Man’s Miraculous Survival

• Author : Joe Simpson
• Publication Date : 1988
• Publisher : Harper Perennial
• Genre : Non Fiction, Adventure

Touching the Void is Joe Simpson’s personal account of his adventure climbing in the Peruvian Andes and how he managed to survive after his partner Simon was forced to leave him behind. A true story and by far one of the most riveting climbing accounts ever told.

5. A Walk In The Woods: Rediscovering America On The Appalachian Trail

• Author : Bill Bryson
• Publication Date : 1998
• Genre : Non Fiction, Travel, Memoir

The Appalachian Trail is one of the most sought-after hiking trails in the world. And if you’re looking to hike it one day or are just interested in reading an in-depth guide of its trails, wildlife, and ecology—Bill Bryson’s A Walk in the Woods is the book to read!

6. The Lost City Of Z: A Tale Of Deadly Obsession In The Amazon

• Author : David Grann
• Publication Date : 2009
• Publisher : Doubleday/Random House

The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon details Percy Fawcett’s adventure and quest to find a lost civilization in the Amazon.

If you like mysteries, ancient history, and lost cities, this is a true account of a 20th century expedition that’s engaging from start to finish.

7. Alive: The Story Of The Andes Survivors

• Author : Piers Paul Read
• Publication Date : 1974
• Publisher : Avon
• Genre : Non Fiction, History, Adventure, Survival

A survival story with adventure elements, Alive: The Story of the Andes Survivors is a thrilling read about the 45 passengers who crashed in the Andes in October, 1972. Piers Paul Read gives a full account of the events that saw only 16 passengers survive.

8. The Perfect Storm: A True Story Of Men Against The Sea

• Author : Sebastian Junger
• Publisher : W. W. Norton & Company

Love stories about sea voyages? The Perfect Storm details one of the most incredible sea voyages ever made – and the unforgiving storm that almost shipwrecked the Andrea Gail and its six-strong crew. The sea isn’t to be underestimated, and this true story tells exactly why!

9. Wild: From Lost To Found On The Pacific Crest Trail

• Author : Cheryl Strayed
• Publication Date : 2012
• Publisher : Knopf
• Genre : Non Fiction, Memoir, Travel, Adventure

Cheryl Strayed embarked on a hike of the Pacific Crest Trail at the age of 22 with no hiking experience – totally on a whim. This is her full, and impulsive, adventure from the Mojave to Washington State, told in a personal memoir that’s both funny and inspiring!

10. In The Heart Of The Sea: The Tragedy Of The Whaleship Essex

• Author : Nathaniel Philbrick
• Publication Date : 2000
• Publisher : Penguin Books

In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex is the story of the Essex and its 20-man crew that embarked on a voyage for whales – only to sail into more than they bargained for when a huge sperm whale sank the ship. Love Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick ? Here’s the true story that inspired it.

11. In The Kingdom Of Ice: The Grand And Terrible Polar Voyage Of The USS Jeannette

• Author : Hampton Sides
• Publication Date : 2014
• Publisher : Doubleday

Storms, icebergs, polar bears, freezing cold temperatures, and starvation, Captain George Washington De Long’s 1879 voyage into the Arctic was no walk in the park.

Aptly titled, In the Kingdom of Ice is a true story of adventure, survival against the elements, and perseverance.

12. Miracle In The Andes

• Author : Nando Parrado and Vince Rause
• Publication Date : 2006
• Publisher : Broadway Books
• Genre : Non Fiction, Adventure, Survival

Miracle in the Andes details the same events of Alive: The Story of the Andes (listed above) but with a personal account from Nando Parrado – one of the survivors who was also the coach of the rugby team carried by the plane that crashed. If you enjoyed Alive , Miracle in the Andes is the book to read next.

13. Eiger Dreams: Ventures Among Men And Mountains

• Publication Date : 1990
• Publisher : Anchor

Here’s another book from Jon Krakauer (yep, he’s had his share of adventures – and close calls), in which he describes the ups and downs of his most daring climbs and his drive to raise the bar of physical and mental endurance – a must-read for hikers and mountaineers.

14. Adrift: Seventy-Six Days Lost At Sea

• Author : Steven Callahan
• Publication Date : 1986
• Publisher : Mariner Books

Can you imagine spending over a month on a small raft in the middle of the ocean, alone? Adrift: Seventy-Six Days Lost at Sea is the real-life story of Steven Callahan, who managed to survive exactly that after his boat capsized in the Atlantic.

15. Shadow Divers

• Author : Robert Kurson
• Publication Date : 2004
• Publisher : Random House

Deep wreck diving is awe-inspiring… and dangerous. And Shadow Divers provides a fascinating yet suffocating perspective of the mysterious German U-boat that was discovered in 1991, what was found on it, and the deep divers that pushed their limits to uncover the mystery behind what happened on the boat.

16. In A Sunburned Country

Here is another first-hand account and personal guide by Bill Bryson, this time in Australia, that’s packed with travel insights, heartfelt humor, and dangerous surprises from his journeys and adventures down under – a must-read for travelers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

17. Seven Years In Tibet

• Author : Heinrich Harrer
• Publication Date : 1953
• Publisher : Tarcher
• Genre : Non Fiction, Travel, History, Memoir

Tibet is a place of beauty and mystery, and Seven Years in Tibet provides an up-close and personal account from the author, Heinrich Harrer, who fled to Tibet and spent seven years there learning about its history, culture, and religion.

18. The Innocents Abroad

• Author : Mark Twain
• Publication Date : 1869
• Publisher : Modern Library
• Genre : Non Fiction, Travel, Classics

Would this list be complete without this Mark Twain classic? The Innocents Abroad details Mark Twain’s travels in 1867, what he called his “Great Pleasure Excursion”, told with the kind of wit and humor that’s expected from the famous creator of Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer.

19. The Climb: Tragic Ambitions On Everest

• Author : Anatoli Boukreev and G. Weston DeWalt
• Publisher : St. Martin’s Press
• Genre : Non Fiction, Adventure, Travel, Survival, Memoir

We began this list with an Everest adventure, so The Climb: Tragic Ambitions on Everest is the perfect book to wrap up our list.

Recounting a brave solo climb to rescue the climbers of two expeditions that went very, very wrong, The Climb is a must-read survival story and rescue mission that’s told by the hero himself, Anatoli Boukreev.

And that concludes our list of the 19 best non fiction books that you need to read – real-life true stories that entertain, shock, excite, and inspire. Add these to your reading list and start checking them off today!

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• Best Non Fiction Books For Teens - January 17, 2023
• Best Non Fiction Adventure Books - January 17, 2023
• 11 Amazing Non Fiction Pirate Books You Will Love - January 17, 2023

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The Best Adventure Travel Books of 2020

These eight titles will keep your wanderlust fired up for when it's safe to travel again

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Opportunities to be transported around the world through the pages of a good read have been a balm for adventure seekers. And with so many great releases this year, we had some trouble narrowing down our list. So we asked eight authors whose own books recently took us to incredible places to recommend some of their favorites. These titles will sate you until it’s safe to travel again.

‘Rockaway’ by Diane Cardwell

According To: Bonnie Tsui , author of four books, including  American Chinatown and  Why We Swim .

Bonnie Tsui, who examines the draw humans have to water in her most recent book,  Why We Swim , returns to a similar theme in her recommended pick. In Rockaway , Diane Cardwell’s focus is on staying above water—literally and figuratively—as she navigates a “failed marriage” and fevered career. “This book is all about starting over and finding the thing—surfing!—that transforms that life into something hopeful and new,” Tsui says. Through a physically challenging endeavor, Cardwell helps readers understand how she has weathered the storm and offers hope to others trying to do the same.  

Why We Need This Now: In a year when the pandemic has added a layer of difficulty onto all of our lives, Rockaway  serves as a guidepost to survival and exploration in our own backyards. “Diane Cardwell’s experience of figuring out how to surf while living in New York City is a great read in a time when we are all desperately seeking newness closer to home. It also has a healthy dose of joy and altered perspective,” Tsui adds.

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‘Leave Only Footprints ’ by Conor Knighton

According To:  Mark Adams , author of four books, including Turn Right at Machu Picchu and Tip of the Iceberg .

“Every human on earth is going to need a long vacation next year, which, if rosy vaccine forecasts come true, could be the greatest road-trip summer in decades. In this charming survey of dozens of national parks, Conor Knighton self-medicates a broken heart by soaking up the wonders of America’s greatest outdoor hits,” explains Mark Adams, whose prolific travel writing career has included journeys that led him to search for the lost city of Atlantis and follow in the footsteps of explorer Hiram Bingham III in the mountains of Peru. 

Why We Need This Now: For Adams, the book offers a worthy distraction from the exhausting news cycle we’ve been faced with this year. “Knighton will have you thinking about better uses for your pent-up energy. Like pitching a tent.”

‘I Hold a Wolf by the Ears: Stories’ by Laura Van Den Berg

According To: Morgan Jerkins , author of three books, including Wandering in Strange Lands   and Caul Baby: A Novel .

One of Time ’s 100 Must-Read Books of 2020, Laura Van Den Berg’s  collection of female-focused horror stories may not seem like a travel narrative at first (unlike the writer’s previous novel, The Third Hotel ) but Morgan Jerkins says the author’s deft portrayal of Florida is just one example of how it is. “Florida is a character itself in the book. Van Den Berg deftly details the heat and nature as well as the people. It’s very distinct, and I’d put her in the group of young esteemed writers like Alissa Nutting and T Kira Madden who are carving out Florida as a necessary place in the literary canon,” Jerkins says.

Why We Need This Now: According to Jerkins, Van Den Berg’s ability to explore complex female emotion and transport readers to each destination offers readers a timely salve. “I think this is the perfect book about travel in 2020 because the author sets stories in different locations, both domestic and international, and the way in which she explores fear might be the sense of understanding we need in such an unprecedented time.”

‘Wanderland: A Search for Magic in the Landscape’  by Jini Reddy

According To: Gina Rae La Cerva, author of Feasting Wild: In Search of the Last Untamed Food .

In Jini Reddy’s memoir Wanderland , the London-based Canadian writer takes a magical journey through her adopted home’s natural landscapes to cope with feeling like an outsider. “Sometimes the best adventures happen in our backyards,’ Gina Rae La Cerva says. “Reddy follows her heart and a good dose of serendipity to explore Britain’s natural wonders. This book is a celebration of the joys of roaming and discovering who we are when we come face to face with nature’s mysteries.”

Why We Need This Now: La Cerva, whose own book is a world-spanning search of what foraging means to different cultures, understands how important connecting to nature is for our well-being. “For many people, the lockdown has made escaping into the wilderness more challenging. Reddy shows us that even the most mundane landscapes contain their own wild magic. I also love that this book is about a woman of color exploring her connection to nature, including the role of her Hindu upbringing in that relationship and her own feeling of otherness.”

‘Underland: A Deep Time Journey’   by Robert Macfarlane

According To: Tom Zoellner, author of eight nonfiction books, including Island on Fire: The Revolt That Ended Slavery in the British Empire and The National Road: Dispatches from a Changing America .

“Less a physical adventure than a startling intellectual journey, Underland invites us to become conscious of a base fact of our everyday existence: the ground we stand on conceals unseen chthonic layers,” says Tom Zoellner about Robert Macfarlane’s latest offering into underground spaces, which range from historic remnants, like nuclear waste burial chambers in Finland and the Paris Catacombs, to places that take us beyond easy accessibility, like Norway’s sea caves. “Macfarlane is like John Wesley Powell without the suntan, taking us on a psychological spelunking odyssey,” Zoellner adds. 

Why We Need This Now: As the world has seemingly shrunk during the pandemic, the idea of exploring our subterranean offerings gives a whole new meaning to appreciating our backyards. “Macfarlane gives us reasons to look deeper into pedestrian landscapes—not just the picturesque ones—and the language we use to make sense of them,” Zoellner says.

‘Spirit Run: A 6,000-Mile Marathon Through North America’s Stolen Land’  by Noé Alvarez

According To: Maggie Shipstead , author of three books, including Seating Arrangements and the forthcoming Great Circle (May 2021).

A quest for connection—to the land and his ancestors—is at the heart of the running journey that Noé Alvarez takes readers on over the course of his book . “The route [that Alvarez ran] was designed to pass through as many tribal lands as possible, and he found himself running alone on gravel roads or simple trails crossing through mountains, rainforest, punishing desert, volcanic moonscape, and sometimes urban centers, contemplating the relationship between Native peoples and the land taken from them,” explains Maggie Shipstead, whose own travelogue, set for release next May, also examines the connections forged on a journey across time (Prohibition through modern day) and place (America, New Zealand, and England). 

Why We Need This Now: “Alvarez is the child of Mexican migrants who endured decades of back-breaking labor [in Yakima, Washington] to make ends meet, and he weaves his parents’ stories into his account of the run, as well as those of the other [Indigenous] runners, many of whom have led crushingly difficult lives. For a lot of us, 2020 has been a year of grappling with the cruelties of the American system while also trying to make sense of mass suffering, and Alvarez’s memoir—deeply personal and moving in its rawness—does both,” Shipstead says.

‘The New Wilderness’  by Diane Cook  

According To: Rahawa Haile , author of the forthcoming In Open Country   (2022).

In her memoir about the Appalachian Trail, set for release in 2021, Rahawa Haile shares her experience of finding herself anew in wild frontiers. Diane Cook’s debut work does the same for its female protagonists who are fighting for their survival. “ The New Wilderness is a speculative novel involving a group of people who seek refuge in the last remaining wilderness when the air in the city is deemed too toxic for children,” explains Haile about the buzzy dystopian debut. “It’s an exhilarating and immersive work, centered on a mother and daughter, that deftly jumps between the physical and interpersonal challenges faced by those who have left everything behind for a chance at struggling anew.” 

Why We Need This Now: The book’s focus on the necessity of working with our neighbors—even those with whom we don’t share a similar life experience—to preserve the planet is timely. According to Haile, “This book is perfect for anyone who spent 2020 cooped up at home due to the pandemic while nursing a healthy anxiety about the climate crisis. If you wish to lose yourself in a story about the natural world set in the long-term consequences of unchecked extractive industries, this is your novel.”

‘Eat the Buddha’  by Barbara Demick

According To: Monisha Rajesh, author of Around the World in 80 Trains: A 45,000-Mile Adventure .

A trip to North Korea introduced Monisha Rajesh to   Barbara Demick’s Nothing to Envy , which she describes as “a gripping examination of the so-called hermit kingdom through the voices of six defectors.” In Eat the Buddha , Demick uses that same ability to turn out a “fair and measured narrative” to Tibet. “This time, she’s pieced together stories told by Tibetans from Ngaba County in China to shed light on the struggles that have taken place since China occupied Tibet [in 1950],” Rajesh explains. “Tracing and tracking down hundreds of eyewitnesses to events between 1958 to present day, she has conducted exhaustive interviews that allow her to recreate everything from the smell of burning villages and the screams of tortured grandparents to softer moments of salty yak butter glistening in tea.” Rajesh, who also visited Tibet by train for her own book, appreciated Demick’s even-handed approach. “We see the raw untouched land pre-invasion and witness the destruction of the natural surroundings as time goes on.”

Why We Need This Now: “Demick presents a nuanced take, explaining that many Tibetans, including the Dalai Lama, were initially open to Chinese assistance when it came to improving the lives of Tibetans, but not to the point that their culture and religion should be eroded,” says Rajesh about current-day acts of suppression against Uyghurs in Xinjiang Province . “This book is a very relevant read that sheds light on the way in which minorities are perceived and treated by the Chinese government and the reasons behind [their persecution],” Rajesh adds.

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12 Top Nonfiction Adventure Books For Adults

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: March 24, 2024  - Last updated: April 8, 2024

A guide to some of the best nonfiction adventure books for adults for an inspiring read

I’ve always been captivated by the raw truths and tales that nonfiction adventure books for adults portray. 

And there’s no better way to improve your coffee table books and adventure books collection, than with inspiring stories based on real events. 

These captivating stories are all about survival while facing the most horrid conditions, proving that humans are capable of great acts of bravery. 

Let’s find inspiration and motivation in these stories together. 

You, dear reader, support this blog. When you purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Psssst…!!?? Can’t you get enough books? Have a look at my other posts:

• Books About The Sea
• Fiction Survival Books
• Best Adventure Books

Nonfiction Adventure Books For Adults – My top picks:

1. through the brazilian wilderness.

by Theodore Roosevelt

Before reading “ Through the Brazilian Wilderness ” by Theodore Roosevelt , I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from nonfiction adventure books for adults that mix history with adventure. 

Roosevelt’s recollection of his expedition through the Amazon rainforest defies any notion of a dry historical account; instead, it’s an inspiring tale with me on the edge of my seat. 

His insightful and candid observations offer a glimpse into the challenges faced while navigating uncharted territories. 

The book has quickly become one of the best wilderness survival books in my collections. 

2. Adrift: Seventy-six Days Lost at Sea

by Steven Callahan

“ Adrift: Seventy-six Days Lost at Sea ” by Steven Callahan finds its way onto the best survival stories books based on true stories for a good reason. 

Surviving solely on his wits and willpower, Callahan’s detailed account of being stranded at sea for over two months is nothing short of a lesson in human strength. 

Delving into the practicalities of survival, from rationing food to ingenious navigation, the book avoids fanciful prose and remains firmly grounded in reality. 

Steven’s introspective journey through the perils of the Atlantic offers a profound insight into our relationship with the vast oceans. 

3. Annapurna

by Maurice Herzog

Maurice Herzog’s “ Annapurna ” is a hallmark among nonfiction adventure stories, captivating readers with its depiction of the pioneering 1950 first ascent of an 8,000-meter peak. 

The narrative’s authenticity captures not just the triumph but also the complex challenges Herzog and his team face. 

It’s rare to find a tale that vividly paints the duality of human strength and vulnerability in the face of nature’s unforgiving elements. 

For anyone drawn to the mountains or tales of real-life adventure, “ Annapurna ” is one of the greatest outdoor adventure books , and it leaves a mark after reading it. 

4. Between a Rock and a Hard Place

by Aron Ralston

Between a Rock and a Hard Place by Aron Ralston it’s a remarkable account of human willpower.

Aron Ralston is a mountain climber who was hiking the Bluejohn Canyon in the Utah desert in 2003 and had a horrible accident – he was trapped for 5 days, which ultimately led to him amputating his arm to save his life

Reading his story gave me a deep understanding of how unpredictable nature is and how strong we can be when our life depends on it. 

This book should be noticed if you’re searching for a book that combines adventure with a personal touch.

5. Undaunted Courage

by Stephen E. Ambrose

“ Undaunted Courage ” by Stephen E. Ambrose delivers a masterful recounting of the historic Lewis and Clark Expedition, cementing its place among top-tier non-fiction adventure books.  

The author meticulously details the expedition’s perils, achievements, and profound impacts without overwhelming the reader. 

What struck me most was the way Ambrose illuminates the human aspects of these historical figures, making them relatable and their experiences tangible. 

This isn’t just a book; it’s a compelling invitation to explore the backbone of American frontier history. 

6. The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon

by David Grann

When you’re on the hunt for true adventure books that talk about human determination, “ The Lost City of Z ” should be on your reading list. 

David Grann delivers an investigative memoir that is as much about the enigmatic Amazonian city as it’s about the people obsessed with its legends. 

What captivated me was the rich narrative woven with historical and personal accounts and the subtle undercurrent of what pushes us to explore the unknown. 

Reading this book, I felt I was trekking through the dense Amazon alongside the explorers, sharing their discoveries and setbacks. 

‘ The Lost City of Z ’ combines history and psychology and is a compelling choice that doesn’t disappoint.

7. Into the Wild

by Jon Krakauer

Jon Krakauer’s “ Into the Wild ” is the latest addition to the list of nonfiction adventure books for adults that profoundly resonates with my love of true exploration stories. 

It tells the story of Christopher McCandless, who abandons his conventional life to pursue a life in the wilderness. 

What struck me most about the book is the portrayal of McCandless’s idealistic pursuits and the stark reality he faces. 

Krakauer’s investigative approach provides a thoughtful perspective on this tragic adventure, marrying the allure of untamed nature with the poignant solitude that comes with it.

8. Into Thin Air

No list of adventure books for adults is complete without Jon Krakauer’s “ Into Thin Air “. 

The story is based on the author’s experience during the 1996 Mount Everest disaster.

It reveals the unpredictable nature of high-altitude climbing and the fragility of the human spirit in relation to nature. 

Krakauer’s firsthand account is both sobering and enlightening, showing the reader that even the most skilled adventurers may find themselves at the mercy of the mountain. 

While it serves as a reminder of the risks involved in such expeditions, this book deeply respects the climbers’ ambition and courage. 

It’s a must-read for those who are after the best books like Into the Wild and are intrigued by mountain exploration’s extreme challenges and psychological demands.

9. Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage

by Alfred Lansing

Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing simply must be on the shelf of any enthusiast of books about outdoor adventures.  

Alfred Lansing’s meticulous research vividly describes the perilous Antarctic expedition led by Ernest Shackleton, but it’s the crew’s resilience and unyielding spirit that truly anchors the narrative. 

Rather than the grandiose language often found in tales of heroism, Lansing opts for a more grounded approach, letting the facts speak for themselves.  

The book offers more than just a story of survival; it offers a glimpse into the resilience of the human spirit in the face of danger.

10. Alive: The Story of the Andes Survivors

by Piers Paul Read

Alive: The Story of the Andes Survivors by Piers Paul Read was added to my collection of best survival books non-fiction.

The story is about the ordeals faced by Uruguayan rugby team members after their plane crashed in the Andes. 

Read’s narrative doesn’t just recount the days of survival; it immerses you in the psychological and physical battles each survivor endured. 

The book showcases human resilience in its rawest form—genuine and profound. 

To anyone passionate about real heroic tales, this true-life saga is a must-read that deserves its place on your bookshelf.

11. The Perfect Storm: A True Story of Men Against the Sea

by Sebastian Junger

Since I turned the last page of “ The Perfect Storm: A True Story of Men Against the Sea ” by Sebastian Junger, I couldn’t get it out of my head. 

It’s one of those nonfiction adventure books for adults that challenges your perception of nature’s might and human resilience. 

The book is about the 1991 storm, the once-in-a-century Halloween Storm, which devastated the North Atlantic and when the Andrea Gail crew of six vanishes never to be found. 

Sebastian Junger follows the stories of other fishermen, sailors, and rescue personnel caught in this terrible storm and tells a story everyone should read. 

12. Into Africa: The Epic Adventures of Stanley & Livingstone

by Martin Dugard 

Into Africa by Martin Dugard recaptures the riveting historical encounter between two iconic explorers. 

The book chronicles the extraordinary journey of journalist Henry Morton Stanley as he searches for the elusive explorer Dr. David Livingstone in the heart of Africa. 

Dugard’s narrative vividly captures the dangerous landscapes, cultural clashes, and personal dramas that defined this iconic expedition, offering a gripping account of one of history’s most legendary quests.

Dugard’s storytelling kept me invested from the first page to the last, proving learning can be an adventure. 

My final thoughts on the best nonfiction adventure books for adults

It’s been an incredible ride sharing my personal experiences and the lessons learned from the nonfiction adventure books for adults that have inspired me. 

Each story has offered a window into extraordinary lives and quests, which has nudged me to seek out my adventures. 

I hope my insights have sparked your curiosity and you’re now ready to discover your next great read. 

Remember to share your favorite nonfiction adventure tales in the comments – I’d love to hear what’s stirred your soul and where your next adventure lies!

FAQ about the top nonfiction adventure books for adults

What are the best nonfiction adventure books for young adults.

Some of the best nonfiction adventure books for young adults are No Summit Out of Sight: The True Story of the Youngest Person to Climb the Seven Summits by Jordan Romero, Marooned in the Arctic by Peggy Caravantes, or A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson.

What are the best true adventure books?

Some of the best true adventure books are Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer, In the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel Philbrick, or The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon by David Grann.

What are the best non fiction exploration books?

Some of the best non fiction exploration books are Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed, Alive: The Story of the Andes Survivors. by Piers Paul Read, or The Puma Years by Laura Coleman.

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

The 38 Best Travel Books for Readers with Wanderlust

If you like to read and you like to travel, you’re my people and you’ve come to the right place. Get ready to discover the 38 best travel books for readers with wanderlust!

As a lifelong reader and traveller, my favourite thing is when my two passions collide. Since 2019, I have read 50+ travel books and would love to introduce some of my favourites to you.

To me, the best travel books are engaging and evocative. They have a story throughout about a person or family I can connect to, rather than just nice descriptions of pretty places. The writing is sharp and funny – never too high-brow, poetic or overly-exclamatory.

My favourite travel stories are true tales (so mostly memoirs about travel) that span multiple countries (around the world trips are my favourite) completed by ordinary people (not athletes or expeditioners). Not all of the books below fit into this category, but it is my go to!

On this list of my favourite travel reads you won’t find:

• Anything historic . I prefer more modern books where the adventures happened in the last 20-ish years.
• Epic adventures or survivor tales . While I believe all of the trips below are adventurous, I’m not drawn to stories of people summiting mountains or surviving shipwrecks. I’m sure those books are great, but they’re not for me.
• Books I read a long time ago . All of the books below I’ve read between 2019 and 2023, so these are my recent thoughts on them (though many were published before then).
• Books I disliked . Obviously, since this is a list of the best travel books, I’ve left off about a dozen books about travel that I’ve read recently, but can’t honestly recommend.

With that out of the way, let’s get to my recommendations and find you your next best book about travel!

Need more reading inspiration? Check out 27 Travel Books that Will Inspire You to See the World , 32 Beach Reads for Every Summer Reading Mood , my favourite non-fiction books , my favourite true crime books , and 12 Memoirs You Should Read .

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

Best books about travel around the world trips

Below are some of my favourite books that feature around the world trips. If you love the idea of setting off on a huge RTW trip, traveling the world for a year or seeing every country on earth, these adventurous travel stories are for you!

Not Afraid of the Fall by Kyle James

Review : I enjoyed following Kyle and Ashley’s travels around the world in this diary-style book. Though I think it lacked a narrative theme, the diary-style does make it feel like you’re out on the road with them through Europe and Asia.

• The Catch Me If You Can by Jessica Nabongo

Review : This might be the best book for traveling the world since Jessica has literally been to every country! I’ve been following Jessica Nabongo on Instagram for years and loved hearing about her travels, as a Black woman and African woman, to every country in the world, especially the less touristed ones. While I loved listening to this as an audiobook to hear directly from Jessica, I want to check out the print version to see her beautiful photography!

World Travel by Anthony Bourdain & Laurie Woolever

Review : Sadly, Anthony Bourdain was only involved in the outline of this book before his passing. However, it’s filled with his words and beautiful essays from his friends on travel, life and food with Tony. I wish the book had been exclusively these essays and Bourdain’s quotes, instead of also trying to be a guidebook. It felt really out of place, and frankly boring, to also read about how to get from the airport to the city centre and what websites to check out to book airfare.

Home Sweet Anywhere by Lynne Martin

Review : I loved hearing about this adventurous couple in their 70’s who decide to sell it all and live home-free. Their excitement jumped off the page and I loved the little travel stories they shared. At times the book felt a bit dated and dull, but overall their motto of “postpone nothing” was very empowering.

Around the World in 80 Trains by Monisha Rajesh

Synopsis : Packing up her rucksack – and her fiance, Jem – Monisha embarks on an unforgettable adventure that will take her from London’s St Pancras station to the vast expanses of Russia and Mongolia, North Korea, Canada, Kazakhstan, and beyond. The ensuing journey is one of constant movement and mayhem, as the pair strike up friendships and swap stories with the hilarious, irksome and ultimately endearing travellers they meet on board, all while taking in some of the earth’s most breathtaking views.

Review : I will admit that I have been listening to the audio version of this book on and off for what has now been years. Every time I listen, I really enjoy it! Monisha does a great job of making train ride after train ride interesting and weaves in the history and culture of the places she’d riding past. But, much like riding a train, I do find my mind wanders which maybe explains why I haven’t finished it yet.

Best memoirs about travel

My favourite genre of book is probably memoirs about travel. I love hearing directly from the traveller all about their adventurous highs and lows. I specifically selected the below true travel reads as each of these life stories is particularly emotional, impactful and inspiring.

• From Scratch by Tembi Locke

Review : I read this book back in 2020 and remember absolutely bawling during the early chapters. I know it’s on Netflix now but I’m almost too nervous to watch it because I know I’ll be emotional. While tissues are necessary, I highly recommend the book. It almost reads like poetry and Tembi’s love for her husband, her family and his, her daughter, Italy, Italian food and finally, herself, jump off the page.

Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

Review : This memoir was both hilarious, as we’d expect from a late night comedian, and incredibly personal and serious. It was a beautiful tribute to Trevor’s mom and a hard look at life in South Africa. My only complaint is that the book bounced around so much chronologically that I was sometimes confused about where we were.

A House in the Sky by Amanda Lindhout & Sara Corbett

Review : This was one of the first and only books I stayed up late to finish – closing my e-reader at 4:30am! While it started slow, I was immediately drawn to Amanda’s love of travel. Once she’s kidnapped, the book is brutally honest and, apologies for the pun, incredibly captivating.

What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding by Kristin Newman

Review : This was a funny and sweet read, perfect for solo travellers who are sick of being asked when they’re going to settle down. While it was an enjoyable read, I wish it was a bit more about travel than relationships.

Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

Review : I couldn’t write a post about the best travel books and not include Eat, Pray, Love now could I? I know it’s a cliche but I would be lying if I didn’t say I really enjoyed this book (and the movie!). I think it’s a powerful read and Liz beautifully tells her story through Italy, India and Indonesia.

A Trip of One’s Own by Kate Wills

Review : Kate is a brilliant storyteller. Whether it’s dealing with the aftermath of her divorce in London, getting back out on the road, reflecting on past travels or telling the stories of female travellers before her, I’m drawn to it all, inspired and engaged!

The Bookseller at the End of the World by Ruth Shaw

Review : This was an amazing look at Ruth Shaw’s life, full of loss and adventure, throughout New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands. Each chapter ends with a tale from her bookstore that just prove how charming small town life is, how kind Ruth is and how much she loves books and the humans who buy them. PS: We’re planning to visit Ruth’s bookstore when we’re in New Zealand this month!

Best books for traveling food lovers

Looking for the best book about travel AND food? Then this next section is for you! So often a love of travel inspires a love of food or vice versa, as we travel the world eating the best meals . Try not to drool all over these recommendations!

Somebody Feed Phil the Book by Phil Rosenthal

Review : If you’re a fan of the travel TV show Somebody Feed Phil (and you should be!) this is the perfect companion book. Personally, I found the recipes to be pretty advanced for your average home chef but loved all of the photos and essays. Caution: Don’t read while hungry!

Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

Review : This memoir was a tough read but really resonated with me as a mixed-Asian person. A beautiful exploration of grief, the power of culture and food, and travel from the US to Korea.

Notes from a Young Black Chef by Kwame Onwuachi

Synopsis : As a young chef, Onwuachi was forced to grapple with just how unwelcoming the world of fine dining can be for people of color, and his first restaurant, the culmination of years of planning, shuttered just months after opening. Notes from a Young Black Chef is one man’s pursuit of his passions, despite the odds.

Review : I really enjoyed Chef Kwame’s story and everything that influenced his cooking, from growing up in the Bronx with Southern US heritage to moving to Africa to live with relatives. He also includes recipes in his memoir, which was a fun touch! And there’s a YA version of Notes from a Young Black Chef which I think younger readers would enjoy.

• Chop Suey Nation by Ann Hui

Review : I loved learning about the culture of Chinese restaurants across Canada, as well as Ann’s family history. It was incredibly empowering for me, as a Chinese Canadian, to recognize so many places and dishes from this book. It felt like home!

Taste by Stanley Tucci

Review : Stanley Tucci (or The Tuc, as he’s known in our house) is a great storyteller and his love for food, from his childhood home in New York to moving abroad to Italy with his parents to recreating dishes in his London home during lockdown, shines through in this yummy book.

Best books about traveling the world with kids

While I don’t have kids myself, I love the idea of families travelling together and I hope to do an epic trip with my future family one day. In hopes of inspiring you too, I’ll introduce my contenders for best book for traveling the world with kids!

One Year Off by David Elliot Cohen

Review : As someone who hopes to travel around the world with a future family one day, I’m a sucker for anyone who has done a big trip with their kids. I really enjoyed hearing about the Cohens’ adventures around the world though the book did feel quite dated, as their trip happened in 1996.

Four Seasons in Rome by Anthony Doerr

Review : This was the first book I ever read (or listened to, actually) in one sitting. I loved the idea of Anthony moving his family to Rome for a year while he worked on a book. Sometimes the book focused too much on art or nature for my liking, but the sections on daily life in Rome worked well for me.

At Home in the World by Tsh Oxenreider

Synopsis : At Home in the World follows Tsh and her family’s journey from China to New Zealand, Ethiopia to England, and more. And all the while Tsh grapples with the concept of home, as she learns what it means to be lost—yet at home—in the world.

Review : I resonated most with this book when Tsh said, “I was infected by an incurable case of wanderlust but I was also a homebody.” That’s so me! I was so inspired by this family’s journey around the world with their kids and how they didn’t let having kids stop them from travelling. There is quite a bit of spirituality and religion throughout the book (including a smidge of white saviour-ism), but it’s mostly tolerable.

• We Came, We Saw, We Left by Charles Wheelan

Review : Another inspiring family adventure! I really enjoyed how this book not only documented the Wheelans’ travels but also why they wanted to go, how they made the trip possible and the family dynamics throughout.

Falling for London by Sean Mallen

Synopsis : Veteran journalist Sean Mallen was ecstatic when he unexpectedly got the chance he’d always craved: to be a London-based foreign correspondent. Falling for London is the hilarious and touching story of how he convinced his wife and daughter to move to London with him, how they learned to live in and love that wondrous but challenging city, and how his dream came true in ways he could have never expected.

Review : It was really interesting to hear Sean’s take not only on moving to London for a year but also as a foreign correspondent reporting news from around Europe. The only part I couldn’t wrap my head around was his wife and daughter not wanting to come (and boy did they complain about it!). Who wouldn’t want to live in London?

How to Be a Family by Dan Kois

Review : I loved following along as the Kois family lived in four different places over the course of a year, learning how to set up life, parent and become a family in each one. Sometimes the story felt a bit bland but I did like how Dan pointed out both the failures and the wins. His realistic approach (“This trip didn’t change our lives, it was our lives”) really resonated with me.

How to Survive Family Holidays by Jack Whitehall, Hilary Whitehall & Michael Whitehall

Review : If you’re a fan of comedian Jack Whitehall or his travel series, Travels with My Father, you’ll definitely want to pick up this book. It’s a fun listen where the Whitehalls swap family travel stories and lighthearted advice. I recommend listening to the audiobook as each person reads and they even include bloopers and reactions.

Best books on traveling Europe

I think because I lived in Europe and have spent a lot of time travelling there, I’m drawn to travel stories set in Europe. Below are some of the best travel books on traveling Europe – with quite a few dedicated to Paris and France for my francophiles!

Paris in Love by Eloisa James

Review : In this book about a family who moves to Paris for a year, Eloisa shares snapshots from their daily life. While slightly romanticized, I liked the idea of just being dropped into their real life and reading the vivid descriptions of mundane things like buying groceries or walking to school.

The Temporary European by Cameron Hewitt

Review : I really enjoyed this one! Cameron shares essays from his travels through Europe (he’s spent a third of each year there since the 1990’s), as well as stories about working for travel legend Rick Steves, running tours, writing guide books, producing his TV show or being back in the Seattle office. While some essays interested me more than others, I really liked Cameron’s overall travel ethos and enjoyed being transported to Europe with him.

For the Love of Europe by Rick Steves

Review : I couldn’t mention Cameron’s book and not include one by Rick himself! If you’re a fan of Rick Steves or just need some more wanderlust inspiration on all things Europe, this is a great read. However, if you’ve seen every episode of his TV show, you may find yourself reading some of the same stories.

Do Not Go Gentle. Go to Paris. by Gail Schilling

Synopsis : Rattled by fears that she is losing her keys, her looks, her job, and her sweetheart, Gail, 62, rashly announces that she will go to Paris, a dream postponed for 40 years. By the end of her journey, Gail recognizes the joie de vivre beneath the wrinkles of bygone beauty in French women. Now she awakens to her own joy of living and finds that it has no expiration date.

Review : I loved the lesson Gail shared about it never being too late to change your life and go after your dreams, but also to go now because you don’t know how long you have. It was so nice to experience her joy in visiting Paris and travelling through France, even if she had to wait until her 60’s to make it happen.

Paris Letters by Janice MacLeod

Review : In this “American moves to Paris” (yes, that’s a genre!) book, Janice shares how she wrote herself out of her boring office job and made it to Paris. I loved hearing how she made the most of her time abroad and leapt into her new life.

No Baggage by Clara Bensen

Review : I was both horrified and inspired by this story of a brand new couple travelling the world with only what they could fit in a fanny bag. While the premise was cool, some of the book felt a bit dull to read. I did, however, enjoy how they represented mental health.

My Good Life in France by Janine Marsh

Review : This time we have a Brit moving to France! While I didn’t love the writing itself, I did enjoy hearing about Janine’s trials and tribulations with expat life in rural France. I have no desire to renovate my own French barn but I like hearing about it!

Eat, Pray, #FML by Gabrielle Stone

Review : Consider this the millennial version of Eat, Pray, Love, but not as cringe-inducing as the title might make it seem. I really appreciated Gabrille’s honesty as she travelled through Europe to try and heal her broken heart. This reads like you’re sitting down with a girlfriend to chat relationships and travel. Note: There are a few fatphobic lines.

Best fiction travel stories

While memoirs about travel and other non-fiction travel books are my favourite, I know that travel fiction is a great genre too. So if you’re a novel reader, check out these adventurous, fictitious and often romantic travel tales!

• One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle

Review : Rebecca Serle is probably my favourite fiction author so this was a must-read for me! I find her writing to be so good – the perfect mix of evocative and smart without being too pretentious or heavy, but also without going the other way and being too cheesy and cringe-inducing. While a love story, this book is also about the love between a mother and daughter and the love for a beautiful place in Italy.

People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry

Review : If you’re looking for a fun and light rom com with a few fun travel stories throughout, this is the novel for you!

The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany by Lori Nelson Spielman

Review : This book hooked me right from the start and I stayed up all night to finish it. It’s all about love, family and Italy. While I did find some of the dialogue a bit cheesy, I loved the descriptions of Italy, the flashbacks and how all of the characters grew.

The Road Trip by Beth O’Leary

Review : This was a really enjoyable read! I was a bit worried about the dual narrators, as I usually end up preferring one voice over the other, but liked both. While some of the characters bugged me, it was overall a very fun road trip!

Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple

Review : I loved this book, told mostly through letters and the daughter’s perspective, all about a mom who disappears and the adventure to find her. It was super engaging with great writing and a fun mystery element.

His Only Wife by Peace Adzo Medie

Review : I loved learning more about Ghana and especially the divide between city life in Accra and rural life in Afi’s hometown, Ho. While I liked Afi’s feminist journey, I wish we saw more of it, as some of her feelings seemed to come out of nowhere. But overall a great read!

Final thoughts: My top 5 best travel books

Out of all of the books about travel I’ve shared above, I decided to narrow it down to my top five best travel books. After much deliberation, my top five (in no particular order) are:

I hope my list of travel reads has inspired you and you have a few new books to add to your TBR. I’d love to know, what’s your favourite travel-related book? 

Looking for more book recommendations? Check out my reading lists:

• What to Read Based on Your Latest Netflix Binge
• 10 True Crime Books for a Truly Spine-Chilling Time
• 15 Books to Help You Escape
• 27 Travel Books that Will Inspire You to See the World

Riana Ang-Canning is a travel writer who has been sharing her global adventures as the founder of Teaspoon of Adventure since 2012. In that time, Riana has travelled to almost 50 countries on 6 continents, including interning in Eswatini, working in Tokyo, road tripping New Zealand and living abroad in Prague. Riana helps everyday travellers discover the world on a mid-budget, proving that you don't have to be athletic, wealthy or nomadic to have an adventure!

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Love this list! I’ve read a few, but certainly not all. Thanks for the recs.

Thanks for checking it out, Saskia! Hope you find a good new read!

Great list, Riana! I need to get busy.

Thanks so much, Kellye!

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22 Best Non-Fiction Adventure Books of All Time

Our goal : Find the best Non-Fiction Adventure books according to the internet (not just one random person's opinion).

• Type "best non-fiction adventure books" into our search engine and study the top 4+ pages.
• Add only the books mentioned 2+ times.
• Rank the results neatly for you here! 😊 (It was a lot of work. But hey! That's why we're here, right?)

(Updated 2024)

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Last Updated: Monday 1 Jan, 2024

• Best Non-Fiction Adventure Books

Into Thin Air

A personal account of the mt. everest disaster.

Jon Krakauer

Touching the Void

Joe Simpson

Across the Pacific in a Raft

Thor Heyerdahl

Shackleton's Incredible Voyage

Alfred Lansing

The Lost City of Z

A tale of deadly obsession in the amazon.

David Grann

Seventy-six Days Lost at Sea

Steven Callahan

The Worst Journey in the World

Apsley Cherry-Garrard

A Woman's Place

Arlene Blum

From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail

Cheryl Strayed

Deep Survival

Who lives, who dies, and why.

Laurence Gonzales

Wind, Sand and Stars

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

A Walk in the Woods

Rediscovering america on the appalachian trail.

Bill Bryson

Into the Wild

In the Heart of the Sea

The tragedy of the whaleship essex.

Nathaniel Philbrick

The Story of the Andes Survivors

Piers Paul Read

One Woman's Journey Across 1,700 Miles of Australian Outback

Robyn Davidson

Seven Years in Tibet

Heinrich Harrer

Skeletons on the Zahara

A true story of survival.

Lost in the Jungle

A harrowing true story of adventure and survival.

Yossi Ghinsberg

Between a Rock and a Hard Place

The basis of the motion picture 127 hours.

Aron Ralston

The Perfect Storm

A true story of men against the sea.

Sebastian Junger

K2, The Savage Mountain

The classic true story of disaster and survival on the world's second-highest mountain.

Charles Houston

• 22 of the Best Adventure Nonfiction Books Ever Written www.foxintheforest.net
• 21 Best Non-Fiction Adventure Books to Read in 2022 www.territorysupply.com
• 14 Riveting Survival Books To Read | The Uncorked Librarian www.culturaobscura.com
• 50 Best Non-fiction Adventure Books | The Art of Manliness www.artofmanliness.com

How was this Non-Fiction Adventure books list created?

We searched for 'best Non-Fiction Adventure books', found the top 5 articles, took every book mentioned in 2+ articles, and averaged their rankings.

How many Non-Fiction Adventure books are in this list?

There are 22 books in this list.

Why did you create this Non-Fiction Adventure books list?

We wanted to gather the most accurate list of Non-Fiction Adventure books on the internet.

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Nonfiction Books » Travel » Best Travel Writing of 2023: The Edward Stanford Travel Book of the Year

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• Best Travel Writing of 2023: The Edward Stanford Travel Book of the Year

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The Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards are hosted each year by Stanfords, the specialist map seller and travel bookshop in London's Covent Garden. The judges of the Edward Stanford Travel Book of the Year, who rotate each year, tend to be brilliant at highlighting the best new travel books in the form of an annual shortlist. This year the judges were the authors Colin Thubron , Sunny Singh, Julia Wheeler, Lois Pryce, and Caroline Eden, and the journalists Ash Bhardwaj and Jeremy Bassetti. Their 2023 shortlist comprised eight travel books, which we detail below.

In The Shadow of the Mountain

By silvia vasquez-lavado.

🏆 The Edward Stanford Travel Book of the Year, 2023

Mountaineer and former Silicon Valley executive Silvia Vasquez-Lavado’s inspirational story intertwines her quest to summit Mount Everest with a vulnerable meditation on her traumatic Peruvian childhood and the story of her struggle to succeed as an immigrant in the United States. After witnessing domestic violence and becoming a victim of child sexual abuse, the author details her struggles with relationships, growing ambition, and coming to terms with her sexuality as a gay woman. Later, mountain climbing becomes a fixation, and a form of catharsis. “Reaching the top isn’t about the accomplishment,” she writes. “It’s about walking in the shadows long enough to see the other side, about learning how to roll with other women and men, and how to lean on and support others instead of white-knuckling life alone.” Kirkus described it as an “emotionally raw and courageous memoir”; the  New York Times said it was “cinematic.”

Read expert recommendations

My Family and Other Enemies: Life and Travels in Croatia’s Hinterland

By mary novakovich.

☆ Shortlisted for the 2023 Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards Travel Book of the Year

In My Family and Other Enemies, the UK-based journalist Mary Novakovich explores her familial relationship with Lika, a region of central Croatia. "It's a region of wild beauty that has been battered by centuries of conflict," she explains. "Used as a buffer zone between the Habsburg and Ottoman empires for hundreds of years, Lika became a land of war and warriors. And when Yugoslavia started to disintegrate in 1991, it was here where some of the first shots were fired." Having first visited Lika as a child, Novakovich has returned many times throughout her life, but the relationship has been complicated by its—and her family's—troubled history. Although Novakovich has previously published several guidebooks to Croatia, this is her first travelogue.

Walking with Nomads

By alice morrison.

☆  Shortlisted for the 2023 Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards Travel Book of the Year

The Scottish explorer and TV presenter Alice Morrison travels across Morocco , from the Sahara Desert to the Atlas Mountains, in the company of three Amazigh (once known as Berber) men and their camels. During her journeys, she encounters a lost city and dinosaur footprints, and does her best to avoid landmines, quicksand and poisonous snakes. She also encounters nomadic peoples travelling through this arid environment, who tell her about the challenges of life on the move, and the changes wrought by a warming climate.

Crossed Off the Map: Travels in Bolivia

By shafik meghji.

In Crossed off the Map , award-winning journalist and travel writer Shafik Meghji journeys from the Andes to the Amazon as he explores Bolivia's past and present, blending travel writing, history, and reportage to tell the story of the country's last 500 years. Published by the small independent press, Latin American Bureau , Crossed off the Map has an opportunity to reach a wider audience following its shortlisting at the Stanfords awards. Listen to an interesting interview with the author on the popular podcast Travel Writing World .

The Slow Road to Tehran: A Revelatory Bike Ride through Europe and the Middle East

By rebecca lowe.

In  The Slow Road to Tehran , journalist Rebecca Lowe describes her solo bicycle ride through 20 countries and 8,000 miles during 2015 and 2016, the dramatic landscapes she passed through, the hardships she endured (in temperatures from -6 to 48˚C), and the people she met, as part of her efforts to truthfully portray the modern Middle East . The Times said it was a "funny and freewheeling account", noting that Lowe "has a forthright confidence that brings to mind those earlier Middle Eastern adventurers Freya Stark and Gertrude Bell"; despite her parents' worries (they warn her that they think she "will probably die" shortly before she sets off) traveling as a lone female brings her unusual insights that add weight to a humourous, even Bryson -esque account.

The Po: An Elegy for Italy's Longest River

By tobias jones.

The Po, Italy's longest river, is drying up. It's a tragedy both ecologically and culturally, given the powerful symbolism afforded the water body; to paraphrase Guido Ceronetti, to understand the Po is to understand Italy . At barely more than 400-miles long, Jones's journey down its banks by boat, bicycle, and train may be only minimally intrepid, but the route takes in historic cities, industrial heartlands, and generally serves as a cross-section of the nation. The Times Literary Supplement described it as "a delightful book that is part history, part travel, part a picture of contemporary Italy." To get a flavour of the book, this essay by the author in The Guardian offers a good introduction.

High: A Journey Across the Himalaya, Through Pakistan, India, Bhutan, Nepal, and China

By erika fatland, translated by kari dickson.

Norwegian anthropologist and internationally bestselling author Erika Fatland ( Sovietistan ,  The Border ) details her journeys to isolated valleys, crowded base camps, and remote monasteries as she journeys through the Himalayan range—a region where Muslims, Buddhists , and Hindus brush shoulders with those still following ancient shamanic beliefs. "I wanted to discover what life stories and cultures were to be found there, beyond the well-trodden paths, high up in the valleys and villages of the mountains with the beautiful name," writes Fatland. "Soon I would travel both far and high."

The Last Overland: The Return Journey of the Iconic Land Rover Expedition

By alex bescoby.

In 1955, a group of students led by Tim Slessor drove 19,000 miles from London to Singapore in a Land Rover; the resulting documentary and book, First Overland , caught the public imagination in a time of post-war austerity. But it was a passing comment by Sir David Attenborough's on the fiftieth anniversary of the expedition—in which he suggested it was "a journey that I don't think could be made again today"—that proved an irresistible challenge for the filmmaker and adventurer Alex Bescoby. This book, and a Channel Four documentary series, are the result: a thrilling adventure in which nothing goes quite to plan, that offers an opportunity to reflect on how much has changed since the 1950s.

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These action-packed books will keep you guessing until the last page

This month’s sci-fi and fantasy novels from elaine u. cho, john wiswell and others will take you to strange worlds.

This month’s science fiction and fantasy books feature a flying cyborg who loses her wings, a spaceship on the run and a shape-shifting creature who falls in love. Those concepts prove just as irresistible as they sound — but you never know what surprises these books will spring on you.

‘Ocean’s Godori’ by Elaine U. Cho

Ocean Yoon, a hotshot space pilot, risks everything to help her best friend, Teo, the scion of a wealthy family, after Teo is framed for murder by a killer who can look like anyone. Soon Teo and Ocean run for their lives, tangling with the notorious outlaw Phoenix, who has every reason to hate Teo.

“ Ocean’s Godori ” is published by Hillman Grad Books, a new venture by actress and screenwriter Lena Waithe and others. Cho’s novel explores a future where Korea dominates space travel. Despite its action-adventure plot, “Ocean’s Godori” focuses heavily on developing the relationships among its lovable characters, which soon prove irresistible — though, alas, Cho takes awhile to bring her characters together.

A theme slowly emerges of coming to terms with death, thanks to one character whose culture is based around handling the dead and a host of others who have either taken lives or lost loved ones. “Ocean’s Godori” navigates the space lane blazed by Becky Chambers and James S.A. Corey, but it manages to arrive at some exciting new destinations. The cooking scenes, in particular, are worth savoring.

‘Someone You Can Build a Nest In,’ by John Wiswell

The plot of “ Someone You Can Build a Nest In ” — a monster falls in love with a monster-hunter — sounds like a recipe for drama, as hatred wars with affection. But nothing could prepare you for the gentle silliness of Wiswell’s wonderful science fiction debut (one draped in the aesthetics of fantasy), in which the shape-shifting Shesheshen finds herself in a romance with Homily, whose family has sworn to destroy her. Masquerading as a human, Shesheshen slowly discovers how much of Homily’s lovable good nature is a result of a lifetime of trauma.

Finding “chosen family” is a huge theme in queer speculative fiction — but Wiswell makes a strong case that our stories should also delve into the sometimes inhumane structures at the heart of traditional families like Homily’s. Shesheshen’s quizzical observations about the illogic of civilization are endlessly funny, if macabre. And through it all, she wrestles with a biological urge to implant her eggs in Homily (which would kill Homily) before discovering another way to reproduce. Despite its title, “Someone You Can Build a Nest In” is about the search for a form of family that doesn’t involve colonizing someone else’s body and mind.

‘The Wings Upon Her Back,’ by Samantha Mills

Zemolai belongs to a quasi-cult of cyborg warriors who worship a deity called the mecha god, striking terror into unbelievers on their cybernetic wings. But when Zemolai takes pity on a heretic, she’s disgraced and loses her wings. Soon she falls into the hands of revolutionaries who are determined to overthrow the fascist regime of the mecha god’s followers.

Like Wiswell, Mills has garnered acclaim for her short fiction, and her debut novel doesn’t disappoint. “ The Wings Upon Her Back ” keeps up a brisk pace but makes time for beautiful character moments and genuinely provocative ideas about the nature of cities and the role of religion in society. (Mills also breathes new life into the trope of gods who might actually be alien visitors.) Zemolai’s internal monologue is studded with parenthetical asides, a technique that beautifully captures her tormented internal state. As Zemolai was manipulated and gaslit, so in turn does she try to manipulate the revolutionaries who have captured her — but she slowly comes to recognize the cycle of abuse she’s trapped in. Her journey makes for a near-perfect novel that we’ll be hearing about for a long time.

‘The Practice, the Horizon, and the Chain,’ by Sofia Samatar

A young boy lives in the bowels of an asteroid-mining ship in deep space, until he is chosen to rise to the upper levels and attend school, thanks to the intervention of a professor whose father once lived in the lower levels. But in place of an inspirational tale about education transforming someone’s life, Samatar delivers something stranger and sharper-edged.

Samatar writes in a style that pivots effortlessly between the poetic and the clinically matter-of-fact, and her commas hit like musical beats, forming a litany that can easily sweep you away. Her world slowly comes into focus, instead of being explained or unveiled all at once, and there’s a startling, upsetting moment halfway through that recalls Allison Williams’s dangling car keys in the final act of “Get Out.” “ The Practice, the Horizon, and the Chain ” brilliantly explores how the mechanisms of shared oppression can furnish shared liberation — because a chain can bind, but it can also connect people.

The best panels at the L.A. Times Festival of Books, according to an L.A. bookseller

Jessica Ferri, owner of Womb House Books, shares the panels she’s most excited about at the 2024 Festival of Books

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For the next few editions of the newsletter, you’ll be hearing directly from folks in the book world. Next up …

I’m Jessica Ferri, a writer for The Times and the owner of Womb House Books , a secondhand online shop specializing in 20th century literature by women. We will have a booth (No. 122) at the festival, so come on down and visit us! In addition to books, we’ll be selling our author hats, so choose your L.A. it-girl fighter while supplies last: Eve Babitz or Joan Didion .

In book news, I think this season is an explosion of blessings of writing by women. Sheila Heti’s new book, “ Alphabetical Diaries ,” is a veritable art bible. Then there’s Maggie Nelson’s new collection of essays and conversations, “ Like Love ,” and Miranda July’s latest novel, “ All Fours ,” coming in May. In June we have Rachel Cusk’s new novel, “ Parade ,” and in July, Sarah Manguso’s second novel, “ Liars .”

(Please note: The Times may earn a commission through links to Bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookstores.)

The L.A. Times Festival of Books is finally here!

I’m moderating what I think will be the best event at the festival, “Love and Friendship: Miranda July and Maggie Nelson in Conversation,” on Saturday at 1:30. We’re going to be discussing the concept of “feeling real” in our relationships — love in marriage and the perils of having a human body. Maggie and Miranda are two of the most audacious thinkers and artists, and it will be such a thrill to have them onstage together.

Also, on Sunday at 12:30, Belletrist’s Karah Preiss will be moderating a conversation between Melissa Broder, Henry Hoke, Isle McElroy, and Jennine Capó Crucet called “Make It Weirder: Body Swapping, Giant Cacti, and Celebrity Impersonators in Contemporary Fiction.” Broder’s most recent novel, “ Death Valley ” (which I reviewed for The Times ), is a book about grief that somehow manages to be hilarious. Tickets are required for both events .

The Week(s) in Books

If you’re into literary takedowns, Ann Manov’s Bookforum review of Lauren Oyler’s most recent book of essays, “ No Judgment ,” may go down in history, thanks to lines like this: “Oyler clearly wishes to be a person who says brilliant things — the Renata Adler of looking at your phone a lot — but she lacks the curiosity that would permit her to do so.”

Sophie Kinsella, the author of “Shopaholic” and other books, announced on social media that she is under treatment for brain cancer. “To everyone who is suffering from cancer in any form I send love and best wishes, as well as to those who love and support them” she wrote. “It can feel very lonely and scary to have a tough diagnosis.”

Scribner editor Emily Polson created a stir when she posted a photo of a box of galleys of “ Didion and Babitz ” by Lili Anolik, calling them “Literary It Girls.” Most were excited by the book, but some took issue with Babitz and Didion being paired together, leading Polson to issue an apology .

“The PEN Awards and World Voices Festival is on the brink of collapse” according to Literary Hub , due to what many feel is a total lack of response to the war in Gaza. Nearly 30 writers and translators have pulled out of the awards. In an open letter, they write: “We cannot, in good faith, align with an organization that has shown such blatant disregard of our collective values.”

Bookstore faves

For this week’s bookseller conversation, I spoke to past festivalgoers Jenny Yang and Chris Capizzi, owners of Filipinotown’s new A Good Used Book shop. Here’s what they had to say about curating their new space.

What would you say your specialization is in? What makes “a good used book?”

We definitely love vintage paperbacks, which we set out in wine crates like records so people can flip through them, cover to cover. We want a whole new generation to discover them. We focus mostly on modern and classic literature including poetry and plays, genre fiction like science fiction and crime, nonfiction in the humanities, sciences and social sciences as well as occult and spirituality, modern and contemporary art and culture of all kinds. I think we’re looking for all the different ways the human experience is interpreted and expressed, and we look to provide a wide variety of ways people communicate those experiences in print.

Tell us about the new shop, the location and neighborhood.

We’re located in Historic Filipinotown near Echo Park, Silver Lake and downtown Los Angeles. We have great neighbors like Clark Street Bread, Grá Pizza, Laveta Coffee and Butchr Bar, so there’s a lot to do. And we have Echo Park Lake just a few blocks away, with Vista Hermosa Park, the local favorite, even closer.

What do you think of L.A. book culture? What are your customers looking for?

There are great bookstores that have been around and are still going strong on this side of L.A.: Alias East in Atwater Village, Counterpoint Records and Books in Hollywood, Sideshow Books in Miracle Mile, Stories in Echo Park and the Last Bookstore downtown. Also can’t forget about the Secret Headquarters comic shop that’s been going on 18 years and just got a new location in Atwater Village. And we’re excited to be part of a new class, along with Untitled Books, Heavy Manners Library and Des Pair Books, working toward nurturing our communities around books.

What’s the most popular title and/or who is the most popular author you sell?

Currently our most popular title is “ Everything Now ” by Rosecrans Baldwin. We call it the “gateway drug” to Los Angeles literature. It’s a great book for transplants and native Angelenos to better understand Los Angeles through its history, its artists and its authors. And it’s just fun to read.

What are your and Jenny’s favorite books of all time, and what are you reading now in terms of new books?

One of Jenny’s favorite books is “ Breast and Eggs ” by Meiko Kawakami, a novel translated from Japanese that sheds light on femininity through female relationships and a woman’s relationship to her own body. She just finished reading Han Kang’s novel “Greek Lessons ,” her follow-up to “The Vegetarian,” a thought-provoking thriller about how one woman’s choice to stop eating meat changes the course of her life and the lives around her.

My favorite book of all-time is probably “ Black Boy ” by Richard Wright, and I’m currently finishing up Kazuo Ishiguro’s latest, “ Klara and the Sun ,” a speculative fiction novel told from the point of view of an android companion.

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