Discover the world’s most compelling non-fiction adventure books that showcase human achievement in the great outdoors. These captivating tales of survival, self-discovery, and tragedy will inspire readers to push their limits and explore the unknown.
From Steven Callahan’s harrowing account of surviving 76 days adrift at sea to Cheryl Strayed’s transformative journey on the Pacific Crest Trail, these stories offer a glimpse into the power of the human spirit.
With a mix of geographical and historical knowledge, readers can delve into a timeless classic and expand their intelligence. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your next outdoor adventure or simply looking for an engaging read, this list of the best non-fiction adventure books has something for everyone.
Into Thin Air By Jon Krakauer
Jon Krakauer’s Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mount Everest Disaster provides a gripping narrative of the 1996 Everest climbing season, during which eight people lost their lives in a massive blizzard. The book is a first-hand account of the events that occurred at 29,000 feet, and Krakauer’s storytelling abilities make for a truly remarkable read.
In addition to his personal experiences, Krakauer explores the allure of Mount Everest and why so many people are drawn to the mountain, despite the inherent dangers. He delves into the psychology of risk-taking and the reasons why people are willing to put their lives on the line for the chance to reach the summit.
Krakauer’s book is a must-read for anyone interested in mountaineering or extreme sports, as well as those fascinated by the human psyche. It offers a unique perspective on the dangers and rewards of pursuing one’s passions, and serves as a cautionary tale for those who may be tempted to take unnecessary risks.
Wild By Cheryl Strayed
Wild is a memoir written by Cheryl Strayed, chronicling her journey of self-discovery on the Pacific Crest Trail. Despite having no prior experience or training, Strayed hiked over a thousand miles from the Mojave Desert to Washington State, driven by sheer will to find healing and purpose in her life.
The book has been highly acclaimed by critics and readers alike for its inspiring and heartening tale of a woman forging ahead against all odds. Strayed’s journey is captured with warmth and humor, while also conveying the suspense and fear of tackling such an epic undertaking on her own.
Wild is a captivating read that balances personal introspection with the thrill of adventure, making it a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration or a glimpse into the transformative power of nature.
The Lost City of Z By David Grann
The Lost City of Z is a captivating book by David Grann that tells the story of British explorer Percy Fawcett’s quest to find a lost civilization in the Amazon jungle and the mystery surrounding his disappearance in 1925. The book is a must-read even if you have seen the award-winning film adaptation.
Grann, who has explored the Amazon himself, writes with a rare sense of authority that only comes from personal experience. He provides a detailed account of Fawcett’s life and the countless explorers who have perished trying to solve the greatest exploration mystery of the 20th century.
The narrative is engaging and will keep readers transfixed from start to finish, even if they already know the ending. Grann’s writing style is clear and neutral, making the book accessible to readers of all backgrounds.
The Man Who Walked Through Time By Colin Fletcher
Colin Fletcher’s journey through Grand Canyon National Park on foot is a remarkable tale of human endurance and survival. In June 1963, Fletcher embarked on a two-month-long hiking adventure that covered the entire length of the park. His journey was fraught with challenges such as extreme temperatures, lack of water, and dwindling supplies.
Despite these obstacles, Fletcher persevered and emerged from the experience with a newfound appreciation for the vastness and beauty of the Grand Canyon. His vivid descriptions of the wildlife, geography, and ancient cultures that he encountered during his journey provide a unique insight into the history and natural wonders of the park.
Fletcher’s journey is a testament to the human spirit and the power of determination. His story serves as an inspiration to all those who seek to challenge themselves and explore the natural world around them. The Man Who Walked Through Time is a must-read for anyone who wants to experience the Grand Canyon through the eyes of a true adventurer.
Ready For Your Own True Adventures?
If you are looking for a thrilling escape from reality, adventure books are a perfect choice. These books can take you to far-off lands, introduce you to new cultures, and make you feel like you’re part of the action. Here are some of the best adventure books that will keep you on the edge of your seat:
- “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas: This classic novel tells the story of a man who is wrongfully imprisoned and seeks revenge on those who betrayed him. It’s a tale of adventure, romance, and redemption that will keep you hooked until the very end.
- “Into Thin Air” by Jon Krakauer: This non-fiction book chronicles the author’s experience climbing Mount Everest during a deadly storm. It’s a harrowing tale of survival and the dangers of pushing oneself to the limit.
- “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain: This beloved novel follows the adventures of Huck Finn and his friend Jim, a runaway slave. It’s a classic tale of friendship, freedom, and adventure that has stood the test of time.
- “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins: This dystopian novel takes place in a world where children are forced to fight to the death in a televised competition. It’s a thrilling and heart-wrenching story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
- “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien: This fantasy novel follows the journey of Bilbo Baggins as he sets out to reclaim a treasure from a dragon. It’s a classic tale of adventure and heroism that has captivated readers for generations.
No matter what type of adventure you’re looking for, there’s a book out there for you. These are just a few of the best adventure books that will take you on a journey you’ll never forget.
The Oregon Trail By Francis Parkman
The Oregon Trail: Sketches of Prairie and Rocky-Mountain Life is a classic American literature that tells the story of Francis Parkman’s journey west across the Great Plains in 1846. Parkman, along with three companions, embarked on a two thousand mile journey on horseback after reaching Westport, Missouri, by way of stagecoach, boat, and wagon.
The book is a fascinating narrative of one man’s exploration of the American Wilderness. It is a non-fiction adventure book that stands out as a classic in American literature. Despite its status, it is often unread, sitting on bookshelves next to decorative copies of Treasure Island and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
The Oregon Trail is a great story that offers a unique perspective on life in the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains during the mid-19th century. Its enduring popularity speaks to its timeless appeal.
A Walk In The Woods By Bill Bryson
Bill Bryson, an American author who spent 20 years living in England, decided to rediscover his home country by walking the 2,100-mile Appalachian Trail. In his book A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail, Bryson recounts his journey with his friend Stephen Katz.
The Appalachian Trail stretches from Georgia to Maine and offers a breathtaking view of serene forests and unspoiled lakes. Bryson’s writing not only captures the beauty of the trail but also advocates for its conservation.
What truly sets A Walk in the Woods apart is Bryson’s comic genius. The book is a perfect blend of adventure, comedy, and celebration. Readers will find themselves laughing out loud at the oddball characters that Bryson and Katz meet on their journey.
The Worst Journey in The World By Aspley Cherry-Garrard
Aspley Cherry-Garrard’s book “The Worst Journey in the World” is a gripping account of Robert Falcon’s ill-fated expedition to the South Pole. Cherry-Garrard was one of only three men who survived the notorious winter journey, and he was part of the search party that discovered the remains of Scott and his men after they succumbed to starvation and the brutal cold.
Cherry-Garrard’s book is based on his personal experience as the youngest member of Scott’s team, as well as the diaries of his fellow explorers. He lays out the legendary expedition in vivid detail, providing readers with a thrilling narrative of the journey.
More importantly, “The Worst Journey in the World” is an appropriate memorial for these early explorers who lost their lives attempting a feat that is still nearly impossible today. It serves as a tribute to the bravery and determination of these explorers, who pushed themselves to the limit in their quest for discovery.
Wind, Sand and Stars By Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Wind, Sand and Stars is a renowned book written by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, a philosophical master of prose and an early pioneer of aviation. The book is a captivating account of the grandeur, danger, and isolation of flight, written in eloquent prose.
In this book, Saint-Exupéry shares his experiences and opinions on various subjects such as heroism, death, friendship, and solidarity among colleagues. He ultimately illustrates his thoughts on what makes life worth living, making the book a valuable read for anyone seeking inspiration and wisdom.
Wind, Sand and Stars has received numerous accolades, including being named 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.
For those who still feel a childlike excitement when an airplane takes off and experience the brief tug of gravity pulling them back to earth, this book is a must-read. Check the Amazon price and add it to your TBR list to experience the beauty of Saint-Exupéry’s prose.
A Short Walk in the Hindu Kush By Eric Newby
Eric Newby, a former fashion industry professional, sought a change in his career and decided to embark on a journey to the Hindu Kush. He received four days of training in Wales before he and his friend set off on their adventure in the Nuristan Mountains in northeast Afghanistan.
A Short Walk in the Hindu Kush takes readers on an exhilarating journey through a region that remains unexplored by many Westerners. The book recounts the highs and lows of their expedition with a mix of humor and adventure. Although the author’s style may be unconventional, the story’s gripping narrative and vivid descriptions make for an enjoyable read.
Endurance By Alfred Lansing
Endurance by Alfred Lansing is a gripping account of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew’s incredible survival story after their ship, the Endurance, was trapped in ice in the South Atlantic in 1915. The crew was left stranded in one of the harshest environments on the planet with no ship and limited supplies.
Despite the odds against them, Shackleton and his crew showed remarkable resilience and determination, surviving for seventeen months on drifting ice packs and meager rations of sea lion and polar bear meat. They faced numerous challenges, including attacks by sea leopards and frostbite, but managed to stay alive until they were finally rescued.
Lansing’s book offers a detailed and vivid portrayal of the crew’s struggles and triumphs, highlighting their incredible endurance and will to survive. It is a testament to the human spirit and a reminder of the power of grit and determination in the face of adversity.
Grand Obsession By Elias Butler And Tom Myers
Grand Obsession: Harvey Butchart and the Exploration of Grand Canyon is a comprehensive biography of Harvey Butchart, who was the first person to hike the entire length of Grand Canyon National Park in segments. The book is a result of 15 years of research by Elias Butler and Tom Myers, and provides a detailed account of Butchart’s life and his obsession with exploring the deepest and most inhospitable reaches of Grand Canyon.
The book covers 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. It traces his 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.
Grand Obsession is part biography and part modern-day adventure, and offers a fascinating insight into Butchart’s life and his passion for Grand Canyon. The book showcases the authors’ exhaustive investigative efforts, which shine through on each page.
Adrift By Steven Callahan
Adrift is a gripping account of Steven Callahan’s 76-day survival ordeal on an inflatable raft. Callahan’s story is unique, as he is the only person known to have survived more than a month alone at sea. The book has been a seafaring classic since its publication and spent an incredible 36 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list.
It is important to note that Adrift by Steven Callahan is not related to the 2018 film of the same name. The film is based on the account of Tami Oldham, who survived 41 days at sea after her boat was crippled by Hurricane Raymond in 1983. If readers are interested in Tami’s story, they should read Adrift: a True Story of Love and Loss by Tami Oldham Ashcraft.
Adrift is a must-read for any adventure enthusiast and is a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
The Perfect Storm By Sebastian Junger
In his book, The Perfect Storm, Sebastian Junger recounts the events of an unprecedented tempest that occurred off the coast of Nova Scotia in October 1991. The storm was a result of three weather systems colliding, and it spawned 100+ foot swells and gale-force winds. The storm of the century, as it came to be known, had no warning, and it led to the disappearance of the Andrea Gail, a swordfishing boat with six men aboard.
Junger’s book provides a detailed account of the rescues that took place that night, some of which resulted in heroes, while others added to the victims of the unforgiving sea. The book is a fascinating study of the history of the fishing industry and the science of storms, mixed with tales of courage, terror, and awe.
Kon-Tiki By Thor Heyerdahl
Thor Heyerdahl, a respected biologist, sought to prove the old Polynesian folklore that the South Sea Islands were settled by an ancient race from thousands of miles to the east. When scientists ridiculed Heyerdahl’s belief, he decided to embark on a journey to prove it was possible. Heyerdahl gathered five other adventurous souls and built a primitive raft using balsa wood, bamboo, and hemp, the same materials that would have been available to pre-Columbian sailors in South America.
The group set sail from Peru and traveled 4,300 nautical miles over three months until they reached the Polynesian island of Puka Puka. The Kon-Tiki, the name of their raft, proved that it was possible for ancient people to travel across the ocean. Heyerdahl’s adventure has become a nautical legend, a magnificent saga of man versus the sea, and a testament to courage and endurance.
The book documenting their expedition, also titled Kon-Tiki, not only gave credence to Polynesian folklore but also made for a riveting read. The book is a classic in adventure literature and has inspired many to embark on their own expeditions. The Kon-Tiki expedition remains a significant accomplishment in the history of oceanic exploration.
Touching the Void By Joe Simpson
Joe Simpson’s book, “Touching the Void,” tells the harrowing story of his and Simon Yates’ climb up a 21,000-foot peak in the Andes and the subsequent events that followed. After reaching the summit, Simpson fell from an ice ledge and broke his leg. Yates attempted to lower Simpson to safety, but the blizzard made the rescue impossible. Yates was forced to cut the rope, and Simpson fell into a crevasse.
Simpson miraculously survived the fall and managed to crawl over the cliffs and canyons of the Andes to base camp, arriving mere hours before Yates planned to break camp. The story of how Simpson and Yates survived the three traumatic days is a heroic tale of survival, suffering, and fear – a moving demonstration of true friendship and courage.
“Touching the Void” is a gripping account of the human spirit’s resilience and the lengths to which people will go to survive. Simpson’s detailed and vivid descriptions of the events make the reader feel like they are right there with him, experiencing the same emotions and physical pain. The book is a testament to the power of the human will and the strength of the bond between two friends in the face of adversity.
Desert Solitaire By Edward Abbey
Desert Solitaire is a memoir written by Edward Abbey, originally published in 1968. The book expresses Abbey’s love for the American West’s natural beauty and his belief that it should be preserved. Abbey wrote the book while working as a ranger at Arches National Park (then a National Monument) in Moab, Utah, and his deep devotion to the land is evident in his work.
In the book, Abbey reflects on the condition of the 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 and poetic memoir offers a rare view into a man’s quest to experience nature in its purest form.
Today, Desert Solitaire remains relevant as the rapid development of the modern world continues to threaten the earth’s natural wonders. The book serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the natural beauty of the American West for future generations to enjoy.
For those who are inspired to embark on their own adventures, the book is a great source of inspiration. It encourages readers to explore the natural world and appreciate its beauty.
Into the Wild By Jon Krakauer
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer is a captivating book that tells the story of Chris McCandless, a young college graduate who abandoned his possessions and wealth to live in the wilderness of Alaska. Krakauer addresses the questions surrounding McCandless’ story by exploring the alluring and often dangerous pull of the outdoors.
The book is based on McCandless’ diary, letters, and notes found at his remote campsite. It 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 led to his death.
Krakauer’s writing evokes the styles of Muir, Thoreau, and Jack London, making Into the Wild a compelling read. Although the movie adaptation is praised by Krakauer himself, the book remains the better of the two.
Journal of the Dead By Jason Kersten
Journal of the Dead is a captivating adventure book that is sure to pique the interest of true crime enthusiasts. The book narrates the true story of two friends who were stranded in the New Mexico desert at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The friends were on the brink of death, and they made a suicide pact as the buzzards circled overhead. However, when rescuers found the lone survivor, they were shocked to learn that he had stabbed his friend in a mercy killing.
Author Jason Kersten uses interviews, profiles, and the friends’ shared journal to retell the story of their ill-fated journey. The book is a perfect blend of adventure and true crime genres, providing readers with a gripping account of the expedition and the perplexing nature of the subsequent murder trial.
Summary
The best adventure books take readers on a journey full of excitement, danger, and suspense. From classic novels like “Treasure Island” and “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” to modern-day thrillers like “The Da Vinci Code” and “The Hunger Games,” adventure books have captured the imaginations of readers for generations.
These books often feature brave and daring protagonists who embark on epic quests, face impossible odds, and overcome incredible challenges. Adventure books are a great way to escape reality and experience the thrill of adventure from the comfort of your own home.