An adventurer is someone who enjoys doing exciting and daring things. However, when life gets in the way of our endeavors, books can be a great way to get our adventure fix. Here are six books that every adventurer should have on their bookshelf:
"The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien
If you are “looking for someone to share in an adventure” then look no further than this tale’s main character, Bilbo Baggins. Bilbo is a hobbit, a half-sized man, who lives in a quiet part of Middle Earth known as the Shire. Hobbits, as it turns out are known for their peaceful and simple lifestyles. However, when an old wizard and a band of ill-behaved dwarves show up at Bilbo’s door and ask him to help them take back their treasure which was stolen by a dragon, old Bilbo just can’t say no. The once, respectable hobbit must battle goblins, spiders and climb mountains to reach the treasure that is guarded by the evil dragon, Smaug. This book is perfect at motivating adventurers to try new things, because if a hobbit can do it, so can you!
"Wild" by Cheryl Strayed
If you are looking for a more realistic adventure book, then the autobiography of Cheryl Strayed, "Wild" is a fast and fascinating read. Cheryl Strayed, a very inexperienced hiker, sets out on the Pacific Crest trail to find herself. After overcoming drug addition, a divorce and numerous other hardships, Cheryl’s journey is truly captivating and inspiring.
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
Another work inspired by a true story is Jon Krakauer’s "Into the Wild." In this novel Krakauer follows the story of Chris McCandless, whose body was discovered in an abandoned bus in Alaska. Upon investigation, it was unearthed that before McCandless’ demise, he had changed his name, worked in a grain elevator and experienced numerous other adventures. He was attempting to make his way to Alaska and become self-reliant. Though his feat was only partially complete, his own dedication to his journey is nothing short of amazing.
"Clan of the Cave Bear" by Jean M. Auel
This novel tells the story of possible interactions between Neanderthal and modern Cro-Magnon humans. The story begins when a Young Cro-Magnon girl named Ayla, becomes separated from her family and is adopted into a clan of Neanderthals. Her obvious physical differences make it difficult for her to fit in with the clan but her ability to use critical thinking is what really sets Ayla apart from the Neanderthals. Her eagerness to invent and adventure lead her to challenge clan traditions, partake in a Mammoth hunt and eventually leave the only family she can remember.
"Travels with Charley" by John Steinbeck
Steinbeck accounts his own attempt to gain insight on the people in America. John Steinbeck along with his beloved dog, Charley, pack up a camper and travel across America. On their way they meet many colorful people and drink too much whiskey. This novel will make you want to pack up and travel right now!
"Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen
The story is told by 93-year old man named Jacob Janowski as he reminisces about his days working for the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth circus performance. He recounts, in his youth, his time as an animal trainer and the caretaker for a particular magnificent Elephant named Rosie. Unfortunately, trouble seems to follow Jacob wherever he goes in the form of love scandals, stampedes and performances gone wild. Even in his old age, Jacob’s love for the circus and animals never goes away and at age 93, he runs away from his nursing home to rejoin the circus, showing us that we are never too old for an adventure
