The River of Doubt Book Summary

In 'The River of Doubt,' Candice Millard unveils the harrowing expedition of Theodore Roosevelt as he journeys into the heart of the Amazon rainforest. Facing relentless challenges, from treacherous waters to deadly wildlife, the former president's resilience is put to the ultimate test. As Roosevelt grapples with his own vulnerabilities, a gripping tale of survival and adventure unfolds. Millard masterfully intertwines history and adventure, revealing not just the physical dangers of the expedition, but the psychological battles as well. This riveting narrative invites readers to explore the untamed wilderness and the indomitable spirit of one of America's most iconic figures.

By Candice Millard

Published: 2006

"The river winds like a serpent, both beautiful and treacherous, much like the journey of the heart that seeks to explore the unknown."

The River of DoubtBook binding

Start Listening to Book Summary

0:000:00

Book Review of The River of Doubt

NATIONAL BESTSELLER • At once an incredible adventure narrative and a penetrating biographical portrait—the bestselling author of River of the Gods brings us the true story of Theodore Roosevelt’s harrowing exploration of one of the most dangerous rivers on earth. “A rich, dramatic tale that ranges from the personal to the literally earth-shaking.” —The New York Times The River of Doubt—it is a black, uncharted tributary of the Amazon that snakes through one of the most treacherous jungles in the world. Indians armed with poison-tipped arrows haunt its shadows; piranhas glide through its waters; boulder-strewn rapids turn the river into a roiling cauldron. After his humiliating election defeat in 1912, Roosevelt set his sights on the most punishing physical challenge he could find, the first descent of an unmapped, rapids-choked tributary of the Amazon. Together with his son Kermit and Brazil’s most famous explorer, Cândido Mariano da Silva Rondon, Roosevelt accomplished a feat so great that many at the time refused to believe it. In the process, he changed the map of the western hemisphere forever. Along the way, Roosevelt and his men faced an unbelievable series of hardships, losing their canoes and supplies to punishing whitewater rapids, and enduring starvation, Indian attack, disease, drowning, and a murder within their own ranks. Three men died, and Roosevelt was brought to the brink of suicide. The River of Doubt brings alive these extraordinary events in a powerful nonfiction narrative thriller that happens to feature one of the most famous Americans who ever lived. From the soaring beauty of the Amazon rain forest to the darkest night of Theodore Roosevelt’s life, here is Candice Millard’s dazzling debut. Look for Candice Millard’s latest book, River of the Gods.

Book Overview of The River of Doubt

About the Book Author

C

Candice Millard

Candice Millard is a renowned American author known for her captivating narrative non-fiction that brings historical figures and events to life. She is the author of several acclaimed books, including "The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt's Darkest Journey," which was a finalist for the William Saroyan International Prize, and "Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President," which won the Edgar Award for Best Fact Crime. Millard's writing is characterized by meticulous research, vivid storytelling, and an ability to intertwine personal and historical narratives, drawing readers into the complexities of human experience amid significant historical events.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Candice Millard
Published
October 2006
Publisher
Vintage
ISBN
0767913736
Language
English
Pages
449
Genres
Biographies of Historical FiguresBiographyHistory

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

The Wright BrothersBook binding

The Wright Brothers Book Summary

In "The Wright Brothers," David McCullough reveals the inspiring tale of two ambitious siblings who dared to dream of flight against all odds. Orville and Wilbur Wright's relentless pursuit of innovation takes them from a humble bicycle shop to the windswept shores of Kitty Hawk, where they make history with the first powered aircraft. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, the book unveils their trials, setbacks, and remarkable ingenuity. McCullough not only highlights their groundbreaking achievements but also delves into their close-knit family bonds and the spirit of perseverance that fueled their quest. Discover how two ordinary men changed the course of human destiny and sparked the modern era of aviation.

The Wright Brothers
Tara Dixon-Engel, Mike Jackson
The Autobiography of Benjamin FranklinBook binding

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin Book Summary

In 'The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin,' the iconic Founding Father takes readers on a captivating journey through his life, revealing his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a key figure in American history. Franklin shares insightful anecdotes of his innovative spirit, dedication to self-improvement, and adventurous pursuits in science, politics, and philosophy. His wit and wisdom shine through as he candidly reflects on his successes and failures, providing a wealth of lessons for modern readers. Readers will discover not only the story of a remarkable man but also the principles that shaped a nation. This autobiography invites us to ponder our own paths and the impact of our choices.

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin
The City in HistoryBook binding

The City in History Book Summary

In 'The City in History,' Lewis Mumford explores the evolution of urban life from ancient times to the modern metropolis. He argues that cities are not just physical structures but reflections of human values and societal progress. Mumford delves into the interplay between architecture, technology, and culture, revealing how they shape the human experience. With incisive critiques and vivid historical examples, he presents a vision of the ideal city that promotes both individuality and community. This thought-provoking journey challenges readers to reconsider the role of cities in their own lives and the future of civilization.

The City in History
Lewis Mumford
Catherine the GreatBook binding

Catherine the Great Book Summary

In 'Catherine the Great,' Robert K. Massie unveils the remarkable life of one of history's most intriguing rulers. From her humble beginnings as a German princess to becoming Empress of Russia, Catherine's journey is filled with bold ambition and sweeping reforms. Discover how she navigated the treacherous waters of love, power, and politics in a male-dominated world. Massie's masterful storytelling reveals the complexity of Catherine's character—she was both a passionate lover and a shrewd strategist. This biography not only chronicles her reign but also invites readers to explore the legacy of a woman who shaped an empire.

Catherine the Great
Robert K. Massie
The Autobiography of Malcolm XBook binding

The Autobiography of Malcolm X Book Summary

No summary available

The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Malcolm X, Alex Haley
A History of Economic TheoryBook binding

A History of Economic Theory Book Summary

In 'A History of Economic Theory', Jürg Niehans takes readers on a captivating journey through the evolution of economic thought. From ancient philosophies to contemporary paradigms, the book unravels how ideas have shaped economic practices across cultures and eras. With each chapter, Niehans reveals the intellectual battles and breakthroughs that have defined the discipline. Rich in historical context, this work challenges readers to consider the relevance of past theories in today's economy. Dive into this scholarly adventure and discover how the past continually influences our understanding of wealth and value.

A History of Economic Theory
Jürg Niehans
ChristineBook binding

Christine Book Summary

In 'Christine', Stephen King unveils the chilling tale of a 1958 Plymouth Fury that possesses a life of its own. As the car's new owner, a troubled teenager named Arnie becomes increasingly obsessed, he transforms from an awkward outcast into a confident and reckless young man. But as Christine's malevolent spirit takes over, Arnie's relationships and sanity begin to unravel, leading to deadly consequences. The story weaves themes of obsession, evil, and the clash between humanity and the machine. Will anyone be able to save Arnie from the grasp of his possessed car before it's too late?

Christine
Stephen King
You Can Be a Stock Market GeniusBook binding

You Can Be a Stock Market Genius Book Summary

In 'You Can Be a Stock Market Genius', Joel Greenblatt unveils the secrets of successful investing with a fresh perspective that demystifies the stock market. He emphasizes the importance of special situations such as spin-offs, mergers, and restructurings that can lead to extraordinary investment opportunities. Greenblatt's witty and engaging style simplifies complex concepts, making them accessible to everyday investors. With practical strategies and real-world examples, he empowers readers to become savvy market participants. Dive into this compelling read and discover how you, too, can master the art of investing and unlock your financial potential!

You Can Be a Stock Market Genius
Joel Greenblatt

Showing 8 of 26 similar books

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Similar Book Recommendations →

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

PoliticsMemoirs and BiographiesSuccess Stories and Life Lessons
Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.

Business and LeadershipSuccess Stories and Life LessonsSelf-Improvement
David Blaine's Book Recommendations

David Blaine's Book Recommendations

David Blaine is an American illusionist, endurance artist, and magician, known for his daring and extreme stunts, such as being buried alive, encased in ice, and holding his breath underwater for a record-breaking amount of time. Blaine gained fame for his street magic performances, but his endurance feats have pushed the boundaries of what the human body can achieve. He has been widely recognized for his contributions to magic and illusion, combining elements of mysticism with physical and mental challenges. Blaine’s work has captivated audiences worldwide and has set new standards in the world of magic and performance art.

Media and Pop CultureCreativity and Innovation
Reshma Saujani's Book Recommendations

Reshma Saujani's Book Recommendations

Reshma Saujani is the founder of Girls Who Code, an organization aimed at closing the gender gap in technology by empowering young women to pursue careers in coding and computer science. She gained national attention in 2010 as the first Indian-American woman to run for U.S. Congress. Reshma is also the author of several books, including Brave, Not Perfect, which encourages women to embrace failure and take risks. Her TED Talk on teaching girls bravery rather than perfection has garnered millions of views. Reshma continues to advocate for gender equality and innovation in education.

Women Who LeadSuccess Stories and Life LessonsEducation
Sophie Bakalar's Book Recommendations

Sophie Bakalar's Book Recommendations

Sophie Bakalar is a distinguished author and venture capitalist known for her adept storytelling and insightful exploration of contemporary issues. Her debut novel received critical acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of complex characters and societal dynamics. In addition to her literary achievements, Bakalar is a co-founder of a successful venture firm, where she leverages her keen understanding of market trends and innovation. Her essays and articles, often featured in prominent publications, reflect her deep engagement with cultural and technological shifts. Bakalar's multifaceted career bridges the worlds of literature and entrepreneurship, making her a unique voice in both fields.

Inspiring ReadsBusiness and LeadershipCreativity and InnovationTechnology and Future
Elon Musk's Book Recommendations

Elon Musk's Book Recommendations

Elon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.

Business and LeadershipTechnology and FutureInspiring Reads
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

Business and LeadershipTechnology and FutureInspiring ReadsMemoirs and Biographies
John Crowley's Book Recommendations

John Crowley's Book Recommendations

John Crowley is an American biopharmaceutical executive and entrepreneur, best known for founding Amicus Therapeutics, a company focused on developing treatments for rare genetic diseases. Crowley was inspired to enter the field after two of his children were diagnosed with Pompe disease, a life-threatening genetic disorder. His personal journey was chronicled in the book The Cure and later adapted into the film Extraordinary Measures, starring Harrison Ford. Crowley’s work in the biotech industry has led to significant advancements in the development of enzyme replacement therapies and other treatments for rare diseases. His leadership at Amicus has positioned the company as a pioneer in patient-centered biotech innovation. In addition to his work in biopharma, Crowley is a sought-after speaker on entrepreneurship, resilience, and the future of healthcare. He remains deeply committed to finding cures for rare diseases and improving the lives of patients and their families.

Success Stories and Life LessonsInspiring ReadsHealth and Nutrition

Showing 8 of 9 related collections

The river winds like a serpent, both beautiful and treacherous, much like the journey of the heart that seeks to explore the unknown.

The River of Doubt

By Candice Millard

Frequently Asked Questions