6+ Favorite Bill Bryson Travel Adventures (So Far!)

Here is a roundup of my favorite Bill Bryson travel adventures (so far!). I hope you find something interesting & a little different.

Lost Continent by Bill Bryson
$10.73

In Lost Continent, Bill Bryson takes us on a quirky 13,978-mile road trip across America, searching for the small town of his youth. What he finds instead is a landscape filled with gas stations and fast food, reflecting a country that feels lost. I appreciated Bryson’s humor and sharp observations about the people and places he encounters, alongside the heartfelt moments he shares about his family. While it’s a fun and nostalgic read, it lacks the polish of his later works. I’d suggest enjoying it after diving into his more refined travel books.
Pros:
Classic Bill Bryson travelogue, funny and observant
Captures a fascinating snapshot of late 80s / early 90s America
Provides a vicarious experience of diverse small towns across the U.S.
Cons:
Bryson's tone is less polished than in his later works
Relies heavily on anecdotes instead of color commentary
Recommend reading his best works first before this one
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01/27/2026 10:01 am GMT
Walk In The Woods by Bill Bryson
$8.07

In A Walk In The Woods, Bill Bryson shares his journey hiking the Appalachian Trail with his friend Stephen Katz. It’s a mix of humor and insightful reflections on nature and the trail's history. I loved every bit of it! The book even inspired me to hit the trail myself, leading to years of outdoor adventures with my family. While Bryson sometimes stretches the truth for laughs, it doesn’t really detract from the fun. Overall, it’s an enjoyable read that might just motivate you to explore the great outdoors too!
Pros:
It was a joy to read.
It inspired me to explore the outdoors.
It’s thoroughly fun from start to finish.
Cons:
He takes a few things out of context for humor.
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01/26/2026 10:01 pm GMT
In A Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson
$9.95

In In A Sunburned Country, Bill Bryson takes us on a lively journey through Australia, blending humor with insights about its culture and history. As he travels by train and car, he meets locals and explores quirky spots like White Cliffs. I loved Bryson's witty style and the rich historical context he weaves in. The book shines a light on Australia’s diversity and its friendly people, though I wasn't a fan of his harsh take on the Atlanta Olympics in the epilogue. Overall, it’s an entertaining and informative read that I highly recommend!
Pros:
Bryson's humor and dry wit enhance the narrative.
The research and historical anecdotes are well-executed.
The varied route and interactions with locals are entertaining.
Cons:
The epilogue is overly critical of the Atlanta Olympics.
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01/26/2026 10:01 pm GMT
One Summer by Bill Bryson
$9.99

In One Summer, Bill Bryson explores the vibrant and pivotal summer of 1927 in America, highlighting events that, while not monumental on their own, collectively shaped the future. From Babe Ruth's historic home runs to Charles Lindbergh's solo flight, Bryson weaves these stories with humor and insight. The book shines in its narrative structure, alternating between major figures and key happenings, making history feel alive. Sure, there are parts that drag a bit, like the Sacco and Vanzetti section, but overall, it’s a must-read for both Bryson fans and anyone curious about the Roaring Twenties.
Pros:
Engaging narrative that weaves diverse topics seamlessly
Interesting focus on an often overlooked decade
Bryson's storytelling makes history accessible and enjoyable
Cons:
One section on Sacco and Vanzetti felt too lengthy and complicated
High expectations from previous Bryson books may affect enjoyment
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01/27/2026 07:01 am GMT
Neither Here Nor There by Bill Bryson
$10.99

In Neither Here Nor There, Bill Bryson takes us on a humorous journey through Europe, retracing his earlier backpacking adventures. I loved how he finds comedy in every situation, whether he's in Norway or Italy, and his knack for storytelling really shines. However, I felt this book is more for die-hard Bryson fans since it lacks the depth his later works have. It's fun and light, but it’s clear he was still developing his voice. Overall, it’s an enjoyable read, especially for those who appreciate Bryson’s trademark humor.
Pros:
Humorous travelogue filled with funny incidents
Captures poignant moments throughout the journey
Interesting to see Bryson's early writing style and cultural challenges
Cons:
Only worthwhile for die-hard Bryson fans
Not his strongest work
Lacks deep research found in his later books
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01/27/2026 06:01 pm GMT
Notes from a Small Island by Bill Bryson
$10.45

In Notes From A Small Island, Bill Bryson takes us on a nostalgic journey through Great Britain as he says goodbye to a place he called home for two decades. The book is packed with quirky insights, fascinating facts, and Bryson's unique take on British life compared to American culture. I really enjoyed how he captures the charm of small towns and the nuances of British life, making it feel both personal and humorous. While some parts can be a bit raw, it’s a classic that offers a delightful glimpse into a Britain that’s changed over the years.
Pros:
Unique perspective on British culture from an American viewpoint
Engaging mix of humor and historical insights
Captures the essence of rural Britain that has changed over time
Cons:
A bit aggressive and raw in parts, not ideal for first-time Bryson readers
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01/27/2026 06:01 pm GMT
I'm A Stranger Here Myself by Bill Bryson
$10.16

I'm A Stranger Here Myself by Bill Bryson is all about his return to America after living in England for 20 years. It’s a mix of funny and insightful essays that explore the culture shock and nostalgia that come with moving back home. I loved Bryson's lighthearted style; his observations are spot-on and relatable, making you think while you chuckle. The essay format keeps things engaging and focused, though I found myself wishing there was more to enjoy. Overall, it’s a delightful read for anyone who's ever felt like a stranger in their own country.
Pros:
Humorous and lighthearted writing style
Thought-provoking cultural observations
Essay format keeps observations tight and focused
Timeless relevance of many chapters
Cons:
I wish there were more!
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01/26/2026 10:01 pm GMT
Bill Bryson's African Diary by Bill Bryson
$13.58

In Bill Bryson's African Diary, Bryson shares his journey through Kenya while visiting various aid projects, particularly those run by CARE International, to which he donates all royalties. The book mixes humor with observations on Kenyan culture, politics, and geography. While I appreciated the important work highlighted and Bryson stepping out of his usual comfort zone, I found the tightly scripted nature of his travels a bit stifling. It lacks the spontaneity that typically makes his adventures so enjoyable. Overall, it’s a good read with some laughs, but it feels a bit too polished for my taste.
Pros:
The book highlights good work done by CARE International.
Bryson's humorous tone makes the subject matter engaging.
It offers insights beyond Bryson's usual Anglo-American perspective.
Cons:
The travel feels highly planned and lacks spontaneity.
The writing feels manufactured at times.
There are criticisms regarding the book's length and tone.
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01/26/2026 10:01 pm GMT
The Road to Little Dribbling by Bill Bryson
$10.49

I recently read The Road to Little Dribbling by Bill Bryson, and I have to say, it’s a delightful journey through England, packed with humor and historical anecdotes. Bryson's unique take on travel writing shines as he explores lesser-known spots, making it both entertaining and educational. While his trademark grumpiness is more pronounced here, it adds to the charm for fans like me. I did wish for more visits to ancient sites, and I was bummed he skipped the northern part of England, but overall, it’s a fantastic read that makes me eager for my own UK travels.
Pros:
Bill Bryson's travel writing is fun, entertaining, and educational.
He explores hidden gems in England, going off the beaten tourist track.
The personal and historical anecdotes are interesting and engaging.
The book maintains a good pace without unnecessary diversions.
Cons:
The book is more crotchety and complain-y than usual.
He skipped over the northern part of England, which was disappointing.
I wish he had visited more ancient historical sites.
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01/26/2026 11:02 pm GMT