The best 10 Exploration books

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What's A Voyage Long and Strange about?

A Voyage Long and Strange by Tony Horwitz is a fascinating exploration of the lesser-known journeys to the Americas before the famous voyage of Christopher Columbus. Horwitz delves into the history of exploration, uncovering tales of Vikings, conquistadors, and other adventurers who made their mark on the New World. With a blend of historical research and firsthand experiences, the book offers a fresh perspective on the early discovery and settlement of the Americas.

Who should read A Voyage Long and Strange?

  • Readers with an interest in American history and exploration

  • Those who enjoy engaging and well-researched non-fiction narratives

  • Individuals who want to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and contradictions of early European encounters with Native American cultures


What's Foreign Devils on the Silk Road about?

Foreign Devils on the Silk Road by Peter Hopkirk is a gripping account of the secret history of the ancient trade route. Filled with tales of adventure, espionage, and treachery, the book uncovers the exploits of European explorers and archaeologists who risked their lives to uncover the mysteries of the Silk Road.

Who should read Foreign Devils on the Silk Road?

  • History enthusiasts interested in the exploration and excavation of the Silk Road

  • Readers curious about the interactions between Western explorers and Central Asian cultures

  • Individuals seeking a captivating account of adventure, espionage, and archaeological discoveries


3
Exploration Books: Ice Ghosts by Paul Watson

Ice Ghosts

Paul Watson

What's Ice Ghosts about?

Ice Ghosts by Paul Watson is a gripping account of the search for the lost Franklin expedition in the Arctic. Through a blend of history, science, and adventure, the book delves into the mystery of Sir John Franklin's ill-fated voyage and the modern-day efforts to uncover the truth. It offers a fascinating exploration of the Arctic environment and the enduring quest for discovery.

Who should read Ice Ghosts?

  • Readers who are fascinated by historical mysteries and the exploration of the Arctic

  • People with an interest in maritime history and the search for lost ships

  • Those who enjoy non-fiction narratives that blend scientific discovery with cultural insights


4
Exploration Books: Into Africa by Martin Dugard

Into Africa

Martin Dugard

What's Into Africa about?

Into Africa by Martin Dugard is a gripping account of the extraordinary journey of Dr. David Livingstone and the search for the source of the Nile River. Set in the 19th century, this book takes you deep into the heart of Africa, exploring the challenges, dangers, and remarkable discoveries made along the way. It's a fascinating blend of history, adventure, and exploration.

Who should read Into Africa?

  • Readers who are fascinated by exploration and adventure

  • History enthusiasts with an interest in African exploration and colonialism

  • Those who enjoy biographies of remarkable individuals who pushed the boundaries of discovery


5
Exploration Books: Mawson's Will by Lennard Bickel

Mawson's Will

Lennard Bickel

What's Mawson's Will about?

Mawson's Will by Lennard Bickel is a gripping account of Australian explorer Sir Douglas Mawson's harrowing journey in Antarctica. Stranded and alone, Mawson fought against extreme cold, hunger, and exhaustion to survive and make his way back to base camp. This book offers a fascinating insight into Mawson's incredible determination and the unforgiving nature of the Antarctic wilderness.

Who should read Mawson's Will?

  • Readers who are fascinated by true stories of survival and exploration

  • People who enjoy learning about historical figures and their remarkable achievements

  • Those with a curiosity about the harsh and unforgiving environment of Antarctica


6
Exploration Books: Sea of Glory by Nathaniel Philbrick

Sea of Glory

Nathaniel Philbrick

What's Sea of Glory about?

Sea of Glory by Nathaniel Philbrick tells the thrilling true story of the U.S. Exploring Expedition from 1838 to 1842. Led by the charismatic and controversial Lieutenant Charles Wilkes, the expedition aimed to map the Pacific Ocean and explore the little-known territories. Filled with adventure, discovery, and conflict, this book brings to life an extraordinary chapter in American history.

Who should read Sea of Glory?

  • History enthusiasts who are fascinated by maritime exploration

  • Readers who enjoy non-fiction narratives with a focus on adventure and discovery

  • Those curious about the challenges and triumphs of early 19th-century naval expeditions


7
Exploration Books: The Last Viking by Stephen R. Bown

The Last Viking

Stephen R. Bown

What's The Last Viking about?

The Last Viking by Stephen R. Bown delves into the incredible life and adventures of Roald Amundsen, the famous Norwegian explorer. From his childhood dreams of polar exploration to his triumph as the first person to reach the South Pole, this book uncovers the untold story of a true pioneer. Filled with historical detail and captivating storytelling, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of exploration and the indomitable spirit of one extraordinary man.

Who should read The Last Viking?

  • History enthusiasts who want to learn about the life and adventures of a legendary explorer

  • Readers interested in the exploration of the Arctic and Antarctic regions

  • Those who enjoy biographies of remarkable individuals who pushed the boundaries of human achievement


8
Exploration Books: Into the Silence by Wade Davis

Into the Silence

Wade Davis

What's Into the Silence about?

Into the Silence by Wade Davis delves into the harrowing and awe-inspiring story of the men who ventured into the unknown to conquer Mount Everest. Set against the backdrop of World War I, this book explores the profound impact of the war on these explorers and the world at large. Through meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Davis brings to life the courage, sacrifice, and determination of those who dared to venture Into the Silence.

Who should read Into the Silence?

  • Adventure enthusiasts who are fascinated by the history of exploration

  • Readers who enjoy immersive and meticulously researched non-fiction narratives

  • Those curious about the human spirit and its capacity for endurance and triumph in the face of extreme challenges


9
Exploration Books: Shadow Divers by Robert Kurson

Shadow Divers

Robert Kurson

What's Shadow Divers about?

Shadow Divers by Robert Kurson is a gripping non-fiction book that delves into the world of deep-sea wreck diving. It tells the incredible true story of a group of divers who discover a sunken World War II German U-boat off the coast of New Jersey. As they unravel the mystery behind the wreck, they face numerous challenges and dangers, making for a thrilling and suspenseful read.

Who should read Shadow Divers?

  • Scuba diving enthusiasts who are fascinated by deep wreck exploration
  • History buffs with an interest in World War II and maritime mysteries
  • Readers who enjoy non-fiction narratives with a blend of adventure and investigation

10
Exploration Books: The Discoverers by Daniel J. Boorstin

The Discoverers

Daniel J. Boorstin

What's The Discoverers about?

The Discoverers by Daniel J. Boorstin is a captivating exploration of the individuals and ideas that have shaped human history through their quest for knowledge and discovery. From ancient civilizations to the scientific revolution, Boorstin delves into the fascinating stories behind groundbreaking inventions, geographical explorations, and intellectual breakthroughs that have transformed our understanding of the world.

Who should read The Discoverers?

  • Curious individuals seeking to explore the history of human discovery
  • Readers interested in the intersection of science, culture, and exploration
  • Those who enjoy thought-provoking narratives that challenge conventional wisdom

Related Topics

Exploration Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Exploration book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard A Voyage Long and Strange as the ultimate read on Exploration.

What are the Top 10 Exploration books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • A Voyage Long and Strange by Tony Horwitz
  • Foreign Devils on the Silk Road by Peter Hopkirk
  • Ice Ghosts by Paul Watson
  • Into Africa by Martin Dugard
  • Mawson's Will by Lennard Bickel
  • Sea of Glory by Nathaniel Philbrick
  • The Last Viking by Stephen R. Bown
  • Into the Silence by Wade Davis
  • Shadow Divers by Robert Kurson
  • The Discoverers by Daniel J. Boorstin

Who are the top Exploration book authors?

When it comes to Exploration, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Tony Horwitz
  • Peter Hopkirk
  • Paul Watson
  • Martin Dugard
  • Lennard Bickel