The Exploration of the Colorado River and Its Canyons

by John Wesley Powell, Wallace Stegner
The Exploration of the Colorado River and Its Canyons cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Travel and Adventure
Technical:
  • ID: 1241
  • Added: 2025-10-01
  • Updated: 2025-10-01
  • ISBN: 9781101042588
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published: 2003-05-27
  • Reviews: 3

The Exploration of the Colorado River and Its Canyons is a gripping first-person narrative by John Wesley Powell, detailing his daring expedition along the Green and Colorado Rivers and through the Grand Canyon. This pioneering journey, undertaken without modern equipment or knowledge of the region's dangers, is a testament to human endurance and curiosity. Powell's account, ranked among the top 100 adventure classics, offers a vivid portrayal of survival against all odds and the exploration of one of America's last frontiers. /n/n Published by Penguin Classics, this work is part of a renowned series that provides authoritative texts enhanced by scholarly introductions and notes, making it a valuable addition to any literature collection. Powell's exploration not only pushed the boundaries of geographical discovery but also shed light on the complex interactions with native inhabitants, offering a multifaceted view of this historic adventure.

Reviews
Audible · 2025-10-01
good 3.80

The audiobook is praised for its informative content and excellent narration. Listeners find it both educational and engaging.

The audiobook version of this classic exploration narrative is highly praised for its informative content and excellent narration. Listeners appreciate the vivid descriptions of the Colorado River and its canyons, which bring the journey to life. The narration is noted for its clarity and ability to engage the audience, making the historical account both educational and entertaining. Many find it a valuable listen for those interested in adventure and American history. The audiobook is seen as a great way to experience this classic work, providing a compelling and immersive journey.

Quick quotes

    Very informative, and good narration.

    This is a wonderful book that describes the mighty river and its awe-inspiring canyons in vivid detail.

    A compelling and immersive journey.

Amazon UK · 2025-10-01
great 4.30

The book is highly regarded for its engaging narrative and the challenges faced by the expedition. Readers find it informative and well-written.

This book is frequently highlighted for its engaging narrative and the detailed account of the challenges faced by the expedition. Readers find it both informative and well-written, providing a compelling look into the early exploration of the Colorado River. The first-person perspective adds a personal touch, making the journey feel immediate and real. Many appreciate the historical context and the vivid descriptions of the landscapes encountered. The book is seen as a valuable resource for those interested in adventure and exploration.

Quick quotes

    One of the great works of American exploration literature.

    This account of a scientific expedition forced to survive famine, attacks, mutiny, and more.

    A compelling look into the early exploration of the Colorado River.

Goodreads · 2025-10-01
excellent 3.90

The book is praised as a classic of American exploration literature, offering a vivid and thrilling account of a perilous journey. Readers appreciate its detailed descriptions and the historical significance of the expedition.

This book is often lauded as one of the great works of American exploration literature. Readers are captivated by the detailed and vivid account of a scientific expedition that faced numerous challenges, including famine, attacks, and mutiny. The first-person narrative brings the journey to life, making it both educational and thrilling. Many appreciate the historical significance of the expedition and the insights it provides into the early exploration of the Colorado River and its canyons. The book is seen as a must-read for those interested in adventure and American history.

Quick quotes

    One of the great works of American exploration literature.

    This account of a scientific expedition forced to survive famine, attacks, mutiny, and more.

    A vivid and thrilling account of a perilous journey.

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