Working my Way Around the World

by Harry Alverson Franck

"Working My Way Around the World" by Harry Alverson Franck and Lena M. Franck is a travel narrative written in the early 20th century. It chronicles the adventures of Harry Franck, who sets out to explore the world with only a limited budget, intending to work his way through different countries. His journey, filled with encounters among various cultures, speaks to the spirit of adventure and curiosity during a time of great exploration. The opening of the book introduces readers to Franck's motivations for embarking on his globe-trotting journey. After years of education, he decides to take a year off to experience the world firsthand, starting with a job on a cattle boat crossing the Atlantic. The narrative details his preparations for the trip, including his minimal finances and eagerness to learn about different cultures and languages through hands-on experiences. We see him entangled in the busy process of handling cattle and the chaotic scenes that unfold as he embarks on his journey, ultimately leading him to Glasgow, where he begins his adventures in Europe.