Subject
Automobile travel Books
Best books
J. C. (John Cuthbert) Long
Motor Camping
"Motor Camping" by J. C. Long and John D. Long is a practical guidebook about the art of camping with a motor vehicle, written in the early 20th century. The book explores various aspects of motor camping, emphasizing its growth as a popular recreational activity in the United States and providing advice on how to save money while enjoying nature. The authors illustrate how families can embark on adventurous trips using their cars, highlighting the freedom and cost-effectiveness that comes with this form of vacationing. The opening of the guide introduces the concept of motor camping, discussing the allure of exploration and the need for a break from modern life. It outlines the increasing popularity of motor camping as a national pastime, with millions partaking in this activity each year. The authors provide statistical evidence of the growing number of camping enthusiasts and suggest that motor camping is not only a romantic and educational experience but also an economical choice for families. Furthermore, they touch on the accessibility of camping grounds, making it easy for city dwellers to escape for short trips to the wilderness.
Michael Myers Shoemaker
Winged Wheels in France
"Winged Wheels in France" by Michael Myers Shoemaker is a travelogue written in the early 20th century. The book documents the author's journey through France in a rented automobile, describing the diverse landscapes, historical sites, and cultural experiences encountered along the way. The likely topic of the book revolves around the exploration of Southern France, with personal reflections on the places visited and the experiences had during this adventurous trip. At the start of the narrative, the author sets off from Monte Carlo, captivated by its beauty but acutely aware of the tragic undercurrents at the famous casino. Through the voice of the narrator, readers are introduced to his charming chauffeur, Jean, and his Japanese servant, Yama, as they begin their adventure traveling through picturesque locations such as Nice, Aix, and various ancient towns in Provence. The opening chapters blend vivid descriptions of the French countryside with historical anecdotes and reflections on the contrasts between the glamorous and the melancholic aspects of the places they visit. The author’s light-hearted but observant tone captures the essence of his journey while inviting readers to experience the romance and history of France through his eyes.
Effie Price Gladding
Across the Continent by the Lincoln Highway
"Across the Continent by the Lincoln Highway" by Effie Price Gladding is a travelogue written in the early 20th century. The work chronicles the author's journey from the Pacific to the Atlantic along the Lincoln Highway, offering detailed observations of the diverse landscapes, cities, and experiences encountered along the route. This narrative is likely filled with vivid descriptions and reflections on both the natural beauty and the social life of early 20th-century America, presenting a journey that evokes a sense of adventure and exploration. The beginning of the book introduces the author arriving back in San Francisco after extensive travels around the world. The narrative captures the thrill of entering the bay, describing the stunning vistas of the city that has risen from its ashes after a great disaster. The author expresses a deep appreciation for the unique qualities of California, from its majestic landscapes to its vibrant cultures, as they prepare to embark on an 8,600-mile journey along the Lincoln Highway. This initial segment sets the tone for a personal and insightful exploration of America during a time of growth and change, blending observation with personal anecdotes that enhance the sense of connection to the vast country.
Winifred Hawkridge Dixon
Westward hoboes : $b ups and downs of frontier motoring
"Westward Hoboes: Ups and Downs of Frontier Motoring" by Winifred Hawkridge Dixon is a travel memoir written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows two women, Toby and the unnamed narrator, as they embark on an extensive adventure across the American Southwest in their Cadillac, seeking discovery and artistic inspiration along the way. Their journey unfolds through both whimsical and tumultuous encounters with the varied landscapes and cultures of Texas and beyond. The opening of the memoir introduces the main characters and sets the stage for their journey. The narrator, who is half-owner of the Cadillac, is joined by Toby, a budding artist who has just learned to drive. They decide to forgo conventional train travel in favor of a more liberating—but ultimately unpredictable—road trip filled with the promise of exploration and discovery. Their initial optimism leads to humorous and challenging situations, as they confront the realities of motoring through unfamiliar and often rugged terrain, hinting at the adventurous and comical experiences that await them throughout their travels.
Emily Post
By motor to the Golden Gate
"By Motor to the Golden Gate" by Emily Post is a travel narrative written in the early 20th century. The book documents the author's ambitious journey from New York to San Francisco, capturing her experiences, challenges, and observations along the way. It highlights the dynamics of road travel during a time when such adventures were still relatively novel and filled with uncertainties. The opening of the book sets the stage for this cross-country trip, filled with both excitement and skepticism from those around her. Emily Post describes how, despite the doubts of friends and acquaintances about the feasibility of her journey without servants or a mechanic, she remains determined to embark on the adventure with just her son and a family friend. The narrative reveals her process of planning the trip, her interactions with various individuals who provide insights—or skepticism—about the journey ahead, and the humorous yet poignant moments that characterize the early stages of their road trip. The reader is introduced to the challenges of navigating uncharted territories, encountering misadventures, and the nascent spirit of motor travel that defined an era.
Beatrice Larned Massey
It might have been worse : $b a motor trip from coast to coast
"It Might Have Been Worse: A Motor Trip from Coast to Coast" by Beatrice Larned Massey is a travel narrative written during the early 20th century. This engaging account chronicles Massey's ambitious journey across the United States, from New York City to San Francisco, in a newly purchased car. The book aims to serve not only as a road map and guide for fellow travelers but also to encapsulate the experiences and insights gained along the way, showcasing the diverse landscapes and cultures encountered throughout the expansive terrain. At the start of the narrative, Massey details her motivations for embarking on the trip, sparked by reading another travel book. She discusses her preparations and the emotional atmosphere surrounding the departure, emphasizing the excitement despite challenges such as lingering rain. Alongside her husband and two friends, the party navigates various detours, recounting the joys and frustrations of their motor journey. The opening sections set the stage for an adventure filled with camaraderie, humor, the beauty of American landscapes, and the inevitable bumps in the road—both literal and metaphorical.
Pierre Marge
Voyage en automobile dans la Hongrie pittoresque Fatra - Tatra - Matra
"Les Voyous au Théâtre" by Oscar Méténier is a critical examination and commentary on theatrical censorship, written in the late 19th century. The book addresses the struggle of the author with the censorship surrounding his play "En Famille," exploring the absurdity and inconsistency of the censors' decisions. The central figure in the opening portion is Méténier himself, who recounts the events leading up to the theatrical ban, the reactions from the public and press, and his determination to challenge the censorship. The beginning of the work sets the stage for Méténier's passionate defense of his piece and highlights the broader implications for artists and writers navigating the oppressive constraints of censorship. He reflects on the initial success of his play and subsequent attempts to bring it back to the stage despite bureaucratic roadblocks. Through a combination of personal narrative and social critique, the opening establishes a tone of defiance and frustration, suggesting a larger commentary on freedom of expression in the arts during a time of strict societal norms.
Pierre Marge
Le Tour de l'Espagne en Automobile Etude de Tourisme
"Le Tour de l'Espagne en Automobile" by Pierre Marge is a travelogue written in the early 20th century. This work combines personal narrative and detailed observations as the author embarks on an adventurous journey across Spain by automobile, facing challenges and encountering various landscapes, cultures, and people. It captures the spirit of exploration during an era when automobiles were becoming increasingly popular for travel. The opening of the book presents the author's preparations for a trip to Spain in the summer, despite warnings from others about the extreme heat and poor conditions expected. Marge expresses determination and enthusiasm for the journey, which he views as an opportunity for adventure and discovery. He sets off from Montpellier, documents the landscapes he encounters along the way, and describes his first impressions as he approaches and crosses the border into Spain. The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions of towns like Narbonne and Béziers, the natural beauty of the countryside, and the challenges faced while traveling through changing terrains, all while balancing moments of humor and cultural reflection.
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