Blue Highways

A Journey into America

By: William Least Heat-Moon

Narrated by: Joe Barrett

Hailed as a masterpiece of American travel writing, Blue Highways is an unforgettable journey along our nation's backroads.William Least Heat-Moon set out with little more than the need to put home behind him and a sense of curiosity about "those little towns that get on the map -- if they get on at all -- only because some cartographer has a blank space to fill: Remote, Oregon; Simplicity, Virginia; New Freedom, Pennsylvania; New Hope, Tennessee; Why, Arizona; Whynot, Mississippi."
His adventures, his discoveries, and his recollections of the extraordinary people he encountered along the way amount to a revelation of the true American experience.

My second-favorite book

Just read it, and then, ten years later read it again. You'll be surprised at how much of it stays with you. It is a peak into the rest of the USA no matter where you are from.

A Classic Tour of America

I had never heard of this book and only decided to read it after it was recommended by a virtual book club. The story started slowly but there were many interesting stories and experiences along his circuitous journey. Either times have changed significantly or the author must have amazing charisma to be able to have such varied experiences. The book was very well written with many eloquent axioms. Definitely worth your time!

Please take the time.

I had a hard time getting into this book and almost quit. Then suddenly I got caught up in the cadence of the language, the history of the times and the wisdom of William Least Heat-Moon and the people he met on his journey. I've listened to several sections over and over. I'm so glad I didn't miss this book.

I didn’t know how bereft I was…

At first I wasn’t sure, about the author or the voice reading….but it wasn’t long before they both fit the bill. Not many authors possess an inherent way of being that is unfakeably original and also worthy of upping your listening level, or maybe deepening it to meet a challenge- just finished another and i am wanting still more…be careful. Melville was not an appropriated author in his time, Moon is more so but I would submit not enough for the gifts given, especially in the times we find ourselves living.

Well written, well read and well enjoyed!

I was looking for something similar to Steinbeck's "Travels with Charley" and found this gem.