Great Journeys

Starred review from November 21, 2011
"Spectacular" is an understatement when applied to these 74 journeys, all stunningly rendered to make readers want to hit the road. The comprehensive array includes nearly every trip imaginable: from scenic railways, to conquerors' trails, to ancient trade routes and pilgrimages. Four pages and at least one full-page photo are devoted to each journey, while statistics sidebars give distances, suggested time commitments, best times of the year to go, and special tips. The "Journey Today" section updates information for modern travelers alongside shortcuts, detours, and an "Armchair" section for additional errata. Among the profiles are the route of Magellan's fleet, Alexander the Great's war march, renowned traveler Paul Theroux's Pacific kayak odyssey, a modern way to retrace Homer's Odyssey, and a venerable ride across America on Route 66. Breathtaking and impressive in all its facets, this wanderlust-inspiring volume is a feast for both mind and eye. Photos.