Compilation of summer vacation reads can fulfill numerous objectives.
It has the potential to ignite your imagination while you strategize your own journeys. It can captivate you as you unwind at the twilight of the day. Plus, it can enlighten you about what you might encounter or undergo on your escapade.
Irrespective of the rationale behind assembling your summer vacation reading list, think about incorporating some of these novels to it!
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Into the Wild: Venturing into Unexplored Zones
You might find pleasure in perusing books about daring exploits to motivate you to lead your own. Alternatively, you might relish reading about other individuals’ adventures from the coziness of your beach chair under your sun hat this summer(hi, kindred mate!). In any case, these books encapsulate heart-stopping adventures, voyages of self-discovery, and captivating insights into the human character.
Both of these books were even adapted into movies, so while on an RV trip, you could spend an evening watching the film after completing the book!
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
Forewarning: this book lacks a cheerful conclusion.
In September of 1992, the corpse of Chris McCandless was discovered in a deserted bus in the Alaskan wilderness. Writer Jon Krakauer retraces McCandless’s odyssey from his college graduation to his demise two years later. McCandless embarked into the wild, on the Stampede Trail, with ten pounds of rice, a rifle with ammunition, a camera, and a few books. He endured for 113 days.
“Into the Wild” traces McCandless’s expedition, but Krakauer also delves into his own wilderness excursions and the tales of a few other men who vanished into the wild.
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed
Following her mother’s demise and the collapse of her marriage, Cheryl Strayed resolves to hike the 1,000+ mile Pacific Crest Trail. She commences at the Mojave Desert and treks solo through California and Oregon to Washington.
Her memoir is a comical, heartwarming testimony of the human spirit and an inspirational narrative about her journey.
Ascending Heights: Conquering Mountains and Beyond
Summer is an ideal timeframe for a mountain climbing expedition. It is usually the prime moment to ascend some of the United States’ numerous majestic peaks. Whether you are scheming your own journey or simply savoring reading about others’ exploits, here are some gripping books to try.
Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer
Jon Krakauer’s other renowned outdoor tale is this frightening chronicle of his undertaking to summit Mt. Everest. Krakauer, a adept climber, was documenting the commercialization of climbing Everest. However, his ascent encountered a sudden storm. When the storm abated, five climbers had perished, and another needed his hand amputated.
This is his narrative of what was meant to be a routine ascent that transformed into a struggle for survival.
Touching the Void by Joe Simpson
Another narrative of survival, this one scrutinizes a climb in the Andes Mountains. Joe Simpson and his partner Simon Yates are climbing the pristine West Face of the Siula Grande when a tempest materializes. Yates was compelled to sever his partner’s rope and returned to base camp fatigued and plagued with immense remorse over his decision.
And subsequently, Joe staggered, delirious, back to the camp.
This is the pulse-pounding account of what transpired to each of the men.
Halfway to Heaven by Mark Obmascik
Alright, the last two books are a tad intense. They are a rush of adrenaline, and not everyone returns unscathed. This one is simply enjoyable.
Colorado boasts 54 mountains that tower over 14,000 feet, renowned as fourteeners. Denver author Mark Obmascik, “chubby, forty-four, father of three sons, and confronted with a vasectomy,” resolves to summit them all. Within a year.
The book narrates his preparations and mountain hikes, merging in captivating tidbits and anecdotes about each peak. You will gain knowledge about Colorado’s history and mountains, and you will chuckle along the way.
En Route: Monumental Travel Expeditions
Some of us explore the globe on our own two feet. Others prefer to observe it through our bug-spattered windshields, with numerous halts along the way. Regardless, here are some books that remind us it’s not merely about the endpoint … it’s all about the passage.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
This book is a spiritual odyssey of travel and an analysis of how it can permanently transform us. It is a modern masterpiece that has become compulsory reading in several literature courses as well.
The book revolves around Santiago, a shepherd boy who dreams of exploring the world in pursuit of riches. However, the treasures he unearths are far more invaluable. It is a contemplative read instead of a light beach read … and one of those tales you will want to debate with individuals long after concluding it.
Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel by Rolf Potts
Extended travel appears to be on the rise – voyaging for a period ranging from six weeks to four months to years – gaining popularity as people contemplate how to adapt their jobs to align with their aspirations. This book will assist you with the gritty specifics of vagabonding. You will learn the ropes of funding your travel time, making decisions on where to go, adapting to life on the road, working or volunteering abroad, and reintegrating into your routine life when you conclude your journey.
Travels With Charley by John Steinbeck
American writer John Steinbeck embarked on a transcontinental journey to rediscover the nation at the age of 58. His epic RV expedition in 1960 kicked off in Maine and headed toward the Monterey Peninsula in California. And it unveiled a broad spectrum of the nation’s humanity – from immense kindness to profound loathing. Accompanying him on the escapade? His French poodleCharley.
Maritime Adventures: Voyage Across the Oceans
In case your inclination leans more towards the vast seas, here are a couple of maritime stories of adventure.
Kon-Tiki by Thor Heyerdahl
In 1947, biologist Thor Heyerdahl embarked on a journey to replicate a legendary voyage in the South Seas. He spent three months navigating storms, sharks, and other natural perils on the open waters and eventually reached the island of Puka Puka. This is his narrative of that expedition.
Sailing Alone Around the World by Joshua Slocum
In the late 1800s, quench your wanderlust with the account of the world’s inaugural solo sail around the globe. Slocum reconstructed a deteriorating ship in a pasture in Massachusetts and spent three years voyaging 46,000 miles around the world. This is his tale of the adventure and solitude in his journey.
Travel Books for Children: Expedition for All Generations
An excellent method to prepare kids for road trips and other journeys is by narrating stories about the experiences to them! Here are a few children’s books on travel.
Busy City by Maddie Frost
Ages newborn to 3
Vivid colors and visuals of buses, cars, and pedestrians portray the various means by which people navigate a bustling city. Introduce kids to the diverse sights and sounds in urban areas, from construction activities to playing in the park.
Little Park Ranger Board Book Set by Mudpuppy
Ages 3-8
If you’re planning a visit to one of the national parks, this board book collection is an ideal way to familiarize kids with what to anticipate. The set includes 16 national parks like the Great Smoky Mountains, Big Bend, and Arches, discussing geological features, wildlife, and more.
Hiking Day by Anne Rockwell
Ages 4-8
If hiking is in your itinerary, this book guides children through the probable experiences. A young girl and her family embark on a hike up a mountain, spotting animals, trees, and other fascinating natural wonders along the way.
Grand Canyon by Jason Chin
Ages 5-9
Children can discover how the Grand Canyon came to be and learn about the flora and fauna thriving there today with this book honored with the Caldecott recognition. The stunning illustrations and die cuts demonstrate how a current fossil was once a creature in the distant past.
Ty’s Travels series by Kelly Starling Lyons
Ages 4-8
An excellent series for young readers following a young boy on his imaginative journeys worldwide.
Travel Guide for Monsters by Lori Degman
Ages 6-10
Wherever you intend to journey with your peculiar friend this season, this guide will provide vital tips and advice. Delight in the sights and steer clear of monstrous mishaps by adhering to this crucial guide.
The World Between Blinks by Amie Kaufman and Ryan Graudin
Ages 8-12
Two cousins join forces to follow a map left behind by their departed grandmother…and find themselves in a completely different world. They uncover actual mysteries from various parts of the world and history, including the fate of pilot Amelia Earhart and the potential existence of the fabled city of Atlantis. This serves as the first installment in a gripping series of adventures featuring Jake and Marisol.
Same Sun Here by Silas House
Ages 10-12
Two pen pals – a young Indian immigrant girl in Chinatown, New York City, and a coal miner’s son in Kentucky – realize that despite their cultural disparities, they share many similarities.
National Geographic Kids Beginner’s World Atlas
Ages 7-10
This world atlas contains captivating facts for inquisitive young readers. It allows them to explore expansive maps, discover facts and figures about the people and creatures across the globe, and gain a deeper insight into the world they inhabit.
United Tastes of America by Gabrielle Langholtz
Alongside discovering new places, it’s delightful to explore the cuisines enjoyed in different regions! This book showcases recipes from every state in the U.S., as well as three territories and Washington, D.C. Delight in gumbo from Louisiana, peanut soup from Virginia, or fry bread from Oklahoma while learning about the cuisine and culture of each locale.
Whether seeking inspiration, immersing in the heart-pounding chronicles of explorers, or sharing bedtime stories that introduce kids to diverse places, this compilation offers something for everyone!
If you’re looking to embark on your own escapade, do explore RVshare’s assortment of motorhome and trailer rentals nationwide. Bring along a selection of these tales to enjoy on the journey or download audio versions for entertainment as you drive.
Do you possess a preferred travel book or summer travel reading list? We eagerly await hearing from you!
