Get ready to go on a literary journey through the immersive world of travel with the best books of 2023. From gripping narratives of historical horseback journeys to inspiring guides on the joys of slow exploration in Europe, these books promise to transport readers to faraway places and diverse cultures.
The Last Ride of the Pony Express: My 2,000-Mile Horseback Journey Into the Old West by Will Grant
Join American journalist Will Grant on an extraordinary 2,000-mile horseback expedition, retracing the historic route of the Pony Express. In The Last Ride of the Pony Express, Grant shares a firsthand account of his 142-day adventure through the Great Plains and Wyoming’s sagebrush steppe.
Beyond the historical journey, the narrative unfolds with vivid descriptions of communities and encounters with local residents, providing readers with a captivating glimpse into America’s Old West.
Unforgettable Journeys Europe: Discover the Joys of Slow Travel by DK Eyewitness
DK Eyewitness presents Unforgettable Journeys Europe, a visual delight showcasing 150 of Europe’s best slow adventures. Organized by modes of transportation, the book takes readers on a mesmerizing exploration of kayaking in Lithuania, crossing the Arctic Circle by train, and other extraordinary experiences.
Filled with illustrations, photos, and practical information, this book is both a colorful reference and an inspiring read, encouraging readers to savor the journey as much as the destination.
Elixir: In the Valley at the End of Time by Kapka Kassabova
Kapka Kassabova’s Elixir invites readers to the remote Mesta Valley in southwestern Bulgaria, where she delves into the deep connection between the region’s people, plants, and land.
As a native Bulgarian, Kassabova’s autobiographical exploration unfolds over seasons, offering insights into foraging, healers, and folk traditions. Elixir is a vibrant narrative that celebrates the unique harmony between humanity and the natural world in a lesser-known corner of the globe.
Oh My Mother!: A Memoir in Nine Adventures by Connie Wang
Journalist Connie Wang’s Oh My Mother! offers a humorous and heartfelt exploration of the complex relationship between herself and her wildly opinionated mother, Qing Li.
Through nine entertaining essays, Wang takes readers on adventures from time-share properties in Cancun to a Magic Mike show in Las Vegas, revealing the intricacies of a daughter getting to know her mother beyond the roles of parenthood.