America the Beautiful?

America the Beautiful? cover
Good Books rating 3.33

Technical:
  • ID: 2013
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9780063273405
  • Publisher: Harper
  • Published: 2023-04-18
  • Reviews: 3

Blythe Roberson, inspired by a lifetime of reading and listening to tales of freedom and adventure, embarks on a Great American Road Trip to explore the nation's national parks. Armed with her stepfather's Prius and a sense of humor, she navigates the open road, meeting new friends and confronting the realities of ecotourism, conservation, and the complexities of American freedom. Her journey is not just about the landscapes she encounters but also about the personal and societal questions that arise from seeking liberty on the road. Roberson's travelogue is a laugh-out-loud exploration of the American psyche, filled with witty observations and profound reflections on the nature of freedom, the environment, and the inequalities that shape our experiences. As she traverses the country, she questions whether escaping society is truly about enlightenment or merely a form of selfish escapism, offering a unique and entertaining perspective on the American dream.

Reviews
Nate Shivar · Nate Shivar · 2024-07-29
intriguing 4.00

They highlight the book's exploration of America's quirks and imperfections through the lens of national parks, sparking a deeper interest in travel and reflection.

Nate Shivar's review focuses on how the book delves into the oddities and imperfections of America, using the backdrop of national parks to do so. They appreciate the commentary and how it ignites a curiosity about travel and self-discovery. The book is seen as a blend of humor and insight, making it a compelling read for those interested in both the natural and cultural landscapes of America.


Quick quotes

    The book covers many National Parks.

    The commentary highlights America's weirdness and imperfections.

    It sparked an interest in reading more about the places she visited.

How I Feel About Books · How I Feel About Books · 2023-06-11
good 3.50

They find the book funny and engaging, focusing on themes of travel, friendship, and self-discovery, though they suggest it might be too introspective at times.

The reviewer from How I Feel About Books enjoys the humor and engaging narrative of the book, which explores themes of travel, friendship, and self-discovery. They appreciate the fun hook and the author's unique perspective but note that the introspection might be a bit too much for some readers. Overall, it's seen as a lighthearted yet insightful journey.


Quick quotes

    In all seriousness, this is a funny book about travel and friends and getting to know yourself, perhaps too much.

    There's a fun hook of Roberson's journey across America.

    The book blends humor with deeper reflections on travel and self-discovery.

Kirkus Reviews · 2023-04-18
mixed 2.50

They acknowledge the book's admirable intentions but feel it falls short of its goals, offering a mixed evaluation.

Kirkus Reviews points out that while the book has admirable aims, it doesn't fully achieve them. The reviewer appreciates the effort and the unique perspective but finds that the execution doesn't quite match the ambition. This leads to a somewhat mixed reaction, recognizing the book's strengths while noting its shortcomings.


Quick quotes

    An admirable work that falls short of its goal.

    ONE WOMAN IN A BORROWED PRIUS ON THE ROAD MOST TRAVELED.

    The book offers a unique perspective on travel and self-discovery.