Road Trip Books for Adults

Bill Bryson is one of the funniest and most trenchant travel writers around. In this, one of his best efforts, he writes about what it was like to return to the United States with his family, after living in Britain for nearly 20 years. All of Bryson's books are great, but this one is especially enjoyable. After being abroad for so long, Bryson found himself totally unprepared for the many strange and... baffling advances in American culture. Microwave pancakes? 24-hour dental-floss hotlines? Hearing Bryson himself narrate his absurd experiences is an added bonus — he makes a terrific road companion.

Tom Robbins’ unforgettable screwball fairytale starring large-thumbed beauty Sissy Hankshaw may have started as a '70s cult fave, but these day's it's considered a pop culture cornerstone. In what could be considered a classic case of "making lemonade," Hankshaw decides to put her large thumbs to good use by becoming a hitchhiker; her colorful travels make up the bulk of the book's action. As influential as any other novels from Robbins' era,... Cowgirls invites the listener to commune with a parade of bizarre, eccentric characters — to look at life from some new (and odd) angles and to enjoy some of this generation’s most creative prose. I never get tired of reading this book — and because it's essentially about a long, strange trip, enjoying it while traveling couldn't be more appropriate.

I’m a huge Jon Krakauer fan, and hearing him read his breakthrough work is a true wonder. His voice resonates beautifully as he retraces the steps of his fellow climbers and him on their quest to tackle Everest. This is one of the ultimate adventure books, equally suited to a hiking trek or a slow drive up to the mountains to camp. The preparation, the climb and the calamity that ensues near... the summit are all brought to life via Krakauer’s powerful words. He drops you into the center of the mayhem; it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

As a fan of The Daily Show, it was hard not to get excited when America came out a couple of years ago. I actually prefer the audio version to the print version, mostly because it affords the opportunity to hear Stephen Colbert read alongside Jon Stewart. Topics covered include: The Founding Fathers: Young, Gifted, and White; The President: King of Democracy; Running for Office: What Are You Thinking? and The Future... of Democracy: The Constitutional Robocracy and You! The satire is terrific — it feels as if there’s a great joke every few seconds. If you’re traveling cross-country, this title is a must. What goes better with America than America?

I know Anthony Bourdain is not for everyone, but I've always enjoyed his candor and bluntness when talking about what really happens at some of the best kitchens in the world. This audiobook is almost impossible to resist. Bourdain's narrative — and his attitude — is funny, outrageous and interesting. His storytelling, especially when discussing his drug use, reminds me of Kerouac in both its rhythm and its brutal forthrightness. Sure, it's... caustic in parts, but that's why we like the guy, right? His honesty is refreshing. One caveat: I'd keep young ears away — this is for adult road trips only.

I've played tennis almost my whole life. My teenage son is also a very strong player. I write about tennis, see as many tournaments as I can — I am basically a tennis freak. Naturally, I couldn't wait to experience Pete Sampras in his own words. In this book, Sampras serves up some amazing stuff: his history growing up, how he felt when first entering the tour. Especially enjoyable is the way... he puts you in the middle of his most legendary matches. Agassi, Becker — it's all in here and it's all good. Sampras set out to be the best, and he achieved that status. Whatever you want to accomplish in life, his story provides great lessons on how to achieve your goals.