The Lost Continent

by Edgar Rice Burroughs
The Lost Continent cover
Good Books rating 3.88
Travel and Adventure
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Paperback • £6.64
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Technical
  • ID: 5014
  • Added: 2025-10-22
  • Updated: 2025-11-05
  • ISBN: 9781784161804
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2015-11-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Bill Bryson, a native of Des Moines, Iowa, returns to his homeland after a decade in England, determined to find the mythical small town of Amalgam, the picturesque setting of his childhood films. His journey takes him across 14,000 miles of America, but instead of the nostalgic paradise he expects, he discovers Anywhere, USA—a landscape of gas stations, motels, and hamburger outlets, populated by people who seem to have lost their sense of place and identity. Bryson's travelogue is a blend of humor and melancholy, as he navigates the dual loss of America to itself and to him, a stranger in his own land./n/nBryson's sharp wit and keen observations make 'The Lost Continent' a classic of travel literature. His encounters with the eccentricities of American life, from the peculiarities of small-town diners to the ubiquity of mobile homes and television, are recounted with a humor that is both laugh-out-loud funny and tinged with a sense of loss. The book is not just a journey across America but also a journey of self-discovery, as Bryson grapples with his own changing perceptions of the country and its people.

Reviews
James Reasoner's Blog · James Reasoner · 2024-12-11
mixed 3.00

The novel is flawed but enjoyable, with intriguing concepts in the first half that slow down later. It's a mixed but engaging read.

James Reasoner's review highlights that 'The Lost Continent' is a book of two halves. The first half, set in what used to be England, is filled with intriguing concepts and ideas that draw the reader in. However, the pace slows down in the second half, which can feel a bit bogged down. Despite its flaws, the novel remains enjoyable and offers a unique adventure. Reasoner appreciates the creativity and imagination Burroughs brings to the story, even if the execution isn't perfect throughout. It's a book that will appeal to fans of classic adventure stories, with a mix of excitement and thoughtful world-building.

Quick quotes

    This is a flawed but enjoyable novel.

    The first half, set mostly in what used to be England, is full of intriguing concepts but bogs down a bit in the second half.

    It's a mixed but engaging read.

PlankSip · 2024-10-29
positive 4.00

The writing style offers an escape into a world of adventure with less violence and more observation. It's a refreshing take on classic adventure stories.

The reviewer from PlankSip praises Burroughs' writing style in 'The Lost Continent' for its ability to transport readers into a world of adventure. Unlike many adventure stories of the time, this novel focuses more on observation and less on violence, which makes it a refreshing read. The reviewer highlights how Burroughs' slower, more fanciful pace allows for a deeper appreciation of the world and its characters. This approach makes the story feel more immersive and engaging, even if the plot isn't as fast-paced as some readers might expect. Overall, it's a book that offers a unique and enjoyable adventure experience.

Quick quotes

    Burroughs' writing style in The Lost Continent offers an escape into a world of adventure with less violence and more observation.

    Not a lot of action, but a lot of adventure.

    A refreshing take on classic adventure stories.

Write Out Loud Blog · 2018-03-22
entertaining 4.50

The journey through America with Bryson is entertaining and humorous, making it a delightful read. The author's wit and observations bring a unique perspective to small-town America.

This review highlights how Bryson's humor and engaging storytelling make the book a joy to read. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to find amusement in everyday situations and his keen observations about American culture. The book is described as a fun and insightful exploration of small-town America, with Bryson's unique perspective adding depth and entertainment value. The reviewer enjoys the author's company throughout the journey, making it a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Quick quotes

    It was an enjoyable romp around America with Bryson as good company (when is he not?).

    He made me giggle on every page and I enjoyed the car journeys and the sights he saw.

    Bryson's humor and engaging storytelling make the book a delightful read.

Little Red Reviewer · Little Red Reviewer · 2013-01-21
positive 4.00

A fun Burroughs adventure with a slower, more fanciful pace. The writing style is enjoyable and makes for a pleasant read.

Little Red Reviewer remembers 'The Lost Continent' as a fun Burroughs adventure, with a slower, more fanciful pace that sets it apart from other works in the genre. The reviewer enjoys Burroughs' writing style, which allows for a more relaxed and immersive reading experience. This approach makes the story feel more like a journey rather than a rushed adventure, which can be a welcome change for readers looking for something a bit different. The reviewer appreciates the creativity and imagination Burroughs brings to the story, making it a pleasant and enjoyable read. It's a book that will appeal to fans of classic adventure stories who enjoy a more leisurely pace.

Quick quotes

    I remember this as a fun Burroughs adventure.

    I like your comment on Burroughs writing style–I really enjoy his slower, more fanciful pace.

    Not a lot of action, but a lot of adventure.

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