In 'Travels with Charley in Search of America,' John Steinbeck embarks on a cross-country journey with his beloved poodle, Charley, seeking to understand the essence of American identity during the 1960s. As they navigate the diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures of the nation, Steinbeck encounters both the beauty and the complexities of life in America. Through candid reflections and keen observations, he reveals the universal truths that bind people together, transcending regional differences. This travelogue invites readers to explore the heart and soul of a country at a crossroads, urging them to consider what truly defines a nation. Join Steinbeck and Charley on a quest that is as much about discovery as it is about self-reflection, leaving you curious about the America you think you know.
By John Steinbeck
Published: 2012
"The first half of our lives is ruined by our parents and the second half by our children."
A collectible 50th anniversary deluxe edition featuring an updated introduction by Jay Parini and first edition cover art and illustrated maps of Steinbeck’s route by Don Freeman A Penguin Classic In September 1960, John Steinbeck embarked on a journey across America. He felt that he might have lost touch with the country, with its speech, the smell of its grass and trees, its color and quality of light, the pulse of its people. To reassure himself, he set out on a voyage of rediscovery of the American identity, accompanied by a distinguished French poodle named Charley; and riding in a three-quarter-ton pickup truck named Rocinante. His course took him through almost forty states: northward from Long Island to Maine; through the Midwest to Chicago; onward by way of Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana (with which he fell in love), and Idaho to Seattle, south to San Francisco and his birthplace, Salinas; eastward through the Mojave, New Mexico, Arizona, to the vast hospitality of Texas, to New Orleans and a shocking drama of desegregation; finally, on the last leg, through Alabama, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey to New York. Travels with Charley in Search of America is an intimate look at one of America's most beloved writers in the later years of his life—a self-portrait of a man who never wrote an explicit autobiography. Written during a time of upheaval and racial tension in the South—which Steinbeck witnessed firsthand—Travels with Charley is a stunning evocation of America on the eve of a tumultuous decade. This Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition also features French flaps and deckle-edged paper. For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.
Showing 8 of 23 similar books
Adam Shoalts is a Canadian explorer, historian, and author renowned for his solo expeditions into some of the most remote regions of the world. He gained widespread recognition with his best-selling book, *Alone Against the North*, which recounts his daring adventures in the uncharted wilderness of Canada. Shoalts's contributions to literature extend beyond thrilling narratives; his works also provide valuable insights into the natural world and the challenges of exploration. In 2017, he embarked on a remarkable 4,000-kilometer journey across the Canadian Arctic, which he documented in his book *Beyond the Trees*. His writings have cemented his reputation as one of Canada's leading voices in adventure literature.
Josh Waitzkin is a renowned chess prodigy whose life inspired the film "Searching for Bobby Fischer." He earned the title of National Master at the age of 13 and later became an International Master. Transitioning from chess, Waitzkin achieved national championship titles in Tai Chi Chuan. His literary contribution includes the bestselling book "The Art of Learning," which explores the process of mastering any skill. Waitzkin is also the co-founder of the JW Foundation, which promotes the cultivation of learning and performance in children.
Jordan Hughes is a celebrated author known for their compelling narratives and richly developed characters. Their debut novel, "Echoes of Tomorrow," won the prestigious Man Booker Prize, marking a significant milestone in contemporary fiction. Hughes's work often explores themes of identity, resilience, and the human condition, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. In addition to their novels, Hughes has contributed thought-provoking essays to major literary journals, further solidifying their influence in the literary world. Their innovative storytelling continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Liz Lambert is a renowned American hotelier and creative visionary, best known for transforming the hospitality industry through her innovative designs and storytelling approach. Though not primarily an author, Lambert's influence extends into literature through her evocative narratives about the places and people that inspire her work. Her most notable project, Hotel San José in Austin, Texas, has become a cultural landmark, celebrated in numerous design and lifestyle publications. Lambert's contributions have been documented in various books and documentaries, highlighting her impact on modern hospitality and design. Her ability to blend personal stories with public spaces has redefined the guest experience, making her a pivotal figure in contemporary hotel culture.
Chris Guillebeau is a prolific author and entrepreneur best known for his New York Times bestselling book, "The $100 Startup," which has inspired countless individuals to pursue financial independence and entrepreneurial endeavors. He has traveled to every country in the world, a feat that underscores his commitment to unconventional living and exploration. Guillebeau's work often centers on the themes of personal freedom, creative self-employment, and adventure, as seen in his other notable books like "The Art of Non-Conformity" and "Born for This." He also founded the annual World Domination Summit, a gathering that encourages people to live remarkable lives. Through his writing and projects, Guillebeau has become a leading voice in the movement towards non-traditional career paths and lifestyle design.
Ricardo Semler is a Brazilian businessman and author, known for his radical approach to corporate management, which emphasizes employee autonomy and democratic decision-making. As the CEO of Semco Partners, Semler transformed his family business into one of the most successful companies in Brazil by allowing employees to control many aspects of their work environment. His management philosophy, outlined in his book Maverick, has inspired companies around the world to adopt more flexible, employee-driven practices. Semler is also an advocate for rethinking education and leadership, and his ideas continue to influence business leaders globally.
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.
Soman Chainani is a renowned author best known for his bestselling fantasy series, "The School for Good and Evil," which has been translated into multiple languages and adapted into a film by Netflix. He is a graduate of Harvard University, where he studied English and American Literature, and holds an MFA in Film from Columbia University. Chainani's work often explores themes of friendship, identity, and the nature of good and evil, captivating young adult readers worldwide. In addition to his achievements as a novelist, he has also received accolades for his work as a screenwriter and filmmaker. Chainani continues to be a significant figure in contemporary children's and young adult literature, inspiring a new generation of readers and writers.
Showing 8 of 23 related collections
“The first half of our lives is ruined by our parents and the second half by our children.”
Travels with Charley in Search of America
By John Steinbeck
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
John Steinbeck (1902-1968) was an American author renowned for his poignant novels exploring themes of social justice, human struggle, and the American experience. Born in Salinas, California, he drew heavily on his experiences in the state’s agricultural heartland, which influenced works like "The Grapes of Wrath" and "East of Eden." Steinbeck received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1962, recognizing his rich and empathetic storytelling. His writing often highlighted the plight of the marginalized, reflecting his deep compassion for the working class. Today, Steinbeck's legacy endures, inspiring readers and writers with his profound insights into humanity and society.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Road Less Traveled," renowned psychiatrist M. Scott Peck combines spiritual wisdom with psychological insight to explore the nature of love, discipline, and personal growth. He challenges readers to confront the complexities of life, urging them to embrace pain and discomfort as pathways to deeper meaning and fulfillment. Through a unique blend of storytelling and practical advice, Peck reveals the transformative power of commitment and the significance of self-awareness in our relationships. As we navigate our own roads, he offers profound insights that provoke introspection and inspire change. Prepare to embark on a journey that invites you to redefine your understanding of love and self-discovery.
In "Vagabonding," Rolf Potts invites readers to embrace the art of long-term travel and discover the freedom found outside conventional life. With practical tips and inspiring anecdotes, he challenges the notion that time and money are barriers to exploring the world. Through the lens of intentional living, Potts offers insights on how to immerse oneself in diverse cultures while breaking free from societal expectations. As he weaves together philosophy and adventure, he ignites a sense of wanderlust that beckons you to take that leap into the unknown. Dive into this transformative journey and unlock the secrets to a life full of exploration and personal growth!
In 'Gulliver's Travels', Jonathan Swift takes readers on a fantastical journey through bizarre lands inhabited by peculiar creatures. Lemuel Gulliver, an ambitious ship's surgeon, encounters the tiny Lilliputians and the giant Brobdingnagians, challenging his perceptions of society and human nature. Each adventure is laced with sharp satire, exposing the follies of politics, war, and human pride. As Gulliver's travels unfold, he grapples with existential questions about civilization and morality. This timeless classic invites readers to reflect on their own world while enjoying a whimsical and thought-provoking tale.
In 'Einstein's Dreams', Alan Lightman weaves a tapestry of imaginative stories that explore the nature of time through the dreams of a young Albert Einstein. Each dream presents a unique and captivating reality where time is experienced differently, challenging our conventional understanding. From a world where time is reversible to one where it stands still, these narratives provoke profound reflections on life, love, and the human condition. As Einstein grapples with the implications of his groundbreaking theories, readers are invited to contemplate their own relationships with time. This thought-provoking novel blends science, philosophy, and art into a mesmerizing exploration of existence itself.
In 'If on a Winter's Night a Traveller,' Italo Calvino invites you on a mesmerizing journey through the labyrinth of storytelling itself. As you, the reader, navigate a series of disconnected narratives, the boundaries between reality and fiction blur tantalizingly. Each chapter uncovers a new plot, each more intriguing than the last, challenging your perception of what a novel can be. With its playful prose and enigmatic structure, Calvino crafts a celebration of literature's power to captivate and confound. Prepare to be entranced by a book that is as much about the experience of reading as it is about the stories it tells.
Join Douglas Adams and wildlife expert Mark Carwardine on an extraordinary journey across the globe as they seek out some of the world's most endangered species. This captivating travelogue blends humor, adventure, and poignant reflections on conservation and the fragility of life. As Adams' wit shines through, readers encounter dazzling creatures like the kakapo parrot and the rare vaquita whale, making it a race against time to witness them before they vanish forever. With each chapter, the urgency of protecting our planet’s biodiversity becomes strikingly clear. 'Last Chance to See' is not just a quest for rare animals, but a call to action to preserve our natural world.
In 'The Road Less Traveled, Timeless Edition', M. Scott Peck explores the profound journey of personal growth and spiritual development. He challenges readers to embrace discipline as the key to self-discovery and relationships. Through candid insights and practical wisdom, Peck reveals the transformative power of love, grace, and courage. This compelling narrative invites you to embark on your own road less traveled, where the path to fulfillment is both challenging and exhilarating. Will you dare to confront the complexities of your own life and emerge renewed?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
