A while back, I read one of the best non-fiction books of my life. It’s called American Nomads: Travels With Lost Conquistadors, Mountain Men, Cowboys, Indians, Hoboes, Truckers, and Bullriders by Richard Grant.
Mr. Grant is not an American. He’s an expat Brit living in Tucson. The guy has, like many of us, fallen deeply for the magic spell of the freedom and mystery of the unique corners of this country. It’s not fully explicable what that spell is, or where it’s magic comes from, and truth be told, he doesn’t find the answer after a whole book exploring the topic. What he does do is explore interesting and sometimes obscure nomadic characters in history and their contemporary counterparts.
Really, this is an amazing book. I’m probably saying this because it feeds my already out-of-control desire to be a traveling gypsy for the rest of my life, seeking out the beautiful, magical places of the world instead of pursuing the stable, boring life of a well-heeled member of society.
If you are in a similar boat, and need a little travelin’ inspiration, by all means, pick up the book. Or get it for your favorite nomad for Christmas. You won’t regret it.
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