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Books with a sense of adventure, in honor of Lewis and Clark

Books with a sense of adventure, in honor of Lewis and Clark

By on May 14th, 2012

208 years ago today, Lewis and Clark set out on their ”Corps of Discovery Expedition” up the great Missouri River. Commissioned by Thomas Jefferson, the two fearless travelers began their two-year journey, which was to become the first ever transcontinental expedition to the Pacific coast. With the help of Sacagawea, their Shoshone Indian companion and guide, they gained a wealth of knowledge about the land, animals, plant life, and native people.

To mark the anniversary of their brave expedition, here is a list of books with a sense of adventure. Some are epics, some are more for kids, but either way, hopefully they’ll make you want to set out on your own bold crusade. Any others to add? Share them here!

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
Mark Twain’s classic novel tells the story of the lovable but trouble-making Huck, who finds himself floating on a raft down the Mississippi River with an escaped slave, Jim. They are truly flung together by circumstance, and in the course of their journey, encounter a string of unforgettable adventures.

The Lost City of Z by David Grann
In 1925, an explorer by the name of Fawcett ventured into the Amazon to find an ancient civilization (also known as “Z”). However, he and his expedition mysteriously vanished, inspiring hundreds of scientists and adventurers to follow in search of some evidence as to where he might be.

The Odyssey by Homer
You must read the classic epic poem about the hero Odysseus and his journey after the fall of Troy. Next time you’re stuck in traffic, think of him—it took him nearly ten years to return home to Ithaca after the Trojan War (his poor wife, Penelope).

Moby Dick by Herman Melville
Captain Ahab and the crew of the whaleship Pequod are in search of one thing: the ferocious sperm whale Moby Dick, who previously destroyed Ahab’s boat, bit off his leg, and has become Ahab’s obsession.

The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
From navigating the world of non-magical Muggles, to tackling Hogwarts’ secrets, competitive students and quidditch matches, to overcoming the dark wizard Lord Voldemort, Harry’s journey is a true hero’s journey.

Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White
I love the story of the tiny barn spider Charlotte, who saves the life of her friend Wilbur the pig, as he’s about to be taken to the slaughterhouse.

Number the Stars by Lowis Lowry
In Copenhagen, 1943, ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen and her family take on a dangerous mission to save Annemarie’s best friend, Ellen, from persecution by Nazi soldiers.

The Island of Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell
Based on the true story of Juana Maria, a Nicoleño Indian who was stranded on San Nicolas Island for nearly 20 years, this story is all about survival and perseverance.

If you’re looking for more resources on Lois and Clark’s expedition, here are great book and resources for the classroom. Plus, National Geographic has an incredible interactive timeline.

 image via.

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