The Bountiful Bookshelf
By Karen Berger
Photographs by John R. Fulton Jr.
Whether you're planning a trip or just daydreaming, these books will inspire, entertain, educate, and delight you.
Ultimate Adventures: A Rough Guide to Adventure Travel
Greg Witt. Rough Guides (2008); paperback, $24.99
Expect a combination of eye candy for the armchair traveler, inspiration for those musing about their next trip, and practical information for true adventurers. This book covers the breadth of global exploits. Whether it’s dog sledding or hiking, camel trekking or canoeing, desert camping or scuba diving, you’ll find information for your next experience, including maps, safety advice, and lists of local guides.
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2009
Lonely Planet (2008); paperback, $22.99
Lonely Planet whisks you away on 300 excursions to every country in the world, complete with stunning photographs. Easy-to-read lists give you the basics about countries, regions, and cities. But you’ll also discover intriguing, offbeat tips on down-to-earth essentials, including the best places to dine, rest, watch the sky, take an eco trip, set up a tent, and think deep thoughts.
Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why
Laurence Gonzales. W.W. Norton & Co. (2004); paperback, $14.95
This stunning collection of stories illustrates how and why certain individuals survive in extreme circumstances. There’s no fail-safe system, but survivors share certain characteristics that increase their odds. In addition to training and experience, they avoid panic, make logical plans even in dire situations, respect the wilderness, and never give up. Expect to read some hair-raising stories along with a practical guide to survival in the wild.
Atlas of the World, 15th edition
Oxford University Press (2008); hardcover, $80
Oxford University Press’s annual update of its atlas guarantees the most current geographic information, including updated census data, maps of 69 major world cities, satellite images, and a wall map of the world. The atlas covers climate (the greenhouse effect), geology (plate tectonics), and economic geography (agriculture, population, and migration). Its political geography section has been revised to reflect recent changes, including new countries, new provinces, a new island near Greenland, and the new Iraq flag.
AMC Guide to Winter Hiking and Camping: Everything You Need to Plan Your Next Cold-Weather Adventure
Yemaya Maurer and Lucas St. Clair. AMC Books (2008); paperback, $16.95
Members of the Appalachian Mountain Club, located in the heart of New England, know winter. They’re exposed to some of the most severe cold weather in the world. They also know how to deal with the magical winter landscape: be warm, dry, and safe. This book gives you authoritative advice on thoroughly enjoying nature’s fourth season, including preparation, safety, winter clothing and equipment, food and cooking, and winter navigation.
Knucklehead: Tall Tales and Almost True Stories of Growing up Scieszka
Jon Scieszka. Viking (2008); paperback, $12.99
In 2008, the Library of Congress named Jon Scieszka its first National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. He’s aimed his most recent book, Knucklehead, at the 9–12 age group, and it’s one of those rare and treasured tomes that make kids (especially boys) want to read. The protagonist is a kid, based on the author, who spent most of his time roaming outdoors, playing tricks on his five brothers (most of whom were Scouts), and getting into trouble. Perfect for a rainy day in camp!
Where to Go When: The Americas
Joseph Rosendo (editor). DK Travel (2008);
hardcover, $40
“You should have been here last week...(when the festival took place, before the rainy season started, when the whale sharks migrated through, when the circus came to town).” No traveler enjoys hearing that they’ve missed out. Where to Go When helps you choose the best places to visit as well as the optimal times to be there. Get tips on seasonal music festivals, the correct time to witness natural wonders, including wildflower blooms and animal migrations, and more. DK’s Eyewitness Guide offers a wealth of info to help you find an island getaway in April, a tour of Anasazi sites in June, or a warm locale in November.