We are now about halfway through 2026. The newness of the new year has completely worn off but maybe you are craving some newness in your life. With the coming of summertime, I often get the urge to head out on an adventure but, without the means for a big adventure, even a day trip can scratch the itch for a change of pace. There are lots of books at the library to inspire big and small adventures, alike.
For a big adventure, read “The Adventure Gap,” by James Edward Mills. It tells the story of the first all African-American summit attempt on Denali, the highest point in North America. In addition to describing the climb, Mills discusses the history of outdoor recreation in the United States and ponders what the future will look like. With relatively few people of color exploring national parks and wild spaces, will the future population of the country value these places and act to protect their stewardship? How can we change the face of the outdoors to include more multicultural adventurers? As Gill says, “everyone-regardless of their race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status-should have the opportunity to experience and thrill in nature if they are so inclined.”
Why aren’t women encouraged to continue looking for adventure as we age? That is a question that Caroline Paul addresses in her book, “Tough Broad: From Boogie Board to Wing-Walking-How Outdoor Adventure Improves Our Lives As We Age.” Paul studies current research on aging and accompanies this with tales of women, ranging in age from 52-93, who scuba dive, BASE jump, boogie board, hike and more. We can, and should, look forward to more than sitting in a rocking chair in our later years.
In Reshma Saujani’s book, “Brave, Not Perfect,” Saujani states that girls are raised to be perfect, safe, quiet and polite, while boys are
encouraged to get dirty, speak up, take risks and be tenacious. She argues that this does not serve girls or women well. In order to reach your full potential and live a life that is authentic to who you are, you must speak your mind, take chances to make your goals happen and be bold in your ambitions. The author further suggests failing often, as this is a sign you are trying new things. It would be foolish to think you would always be successful on a first attempt. As a personal example of a physical challenge she took on, Saujani stepped way outside of her comfort zone to go surfing with her niece. Despite not liking cold water and not knowing how to swim, she gave surfing her best effort. She barely stood on the board for ten seconds at a time but she recalls the experience with pride and joy.
For wild gastronomic adventures, see “Gastro Obscura: A Food Adventurer’s Guide,” by Cecily Wong and Dylan Thuras. Offerings include: Attending a worm courtship festival in Indonesia, visiting the world’s largest underwater restaurant in Norway, and drinking a “sourtoe cocktail” in the Yukon. I will spare you a description of the cocktail but, be warned, it is not for the faint of heart. Additionally, you could learn about the Lluvia de Peces, an annual phenomenon in which hundreds of small silver fish rain down on the town of Yoro, in Honduras. You might learn about the ancient culinary practice of “engastration,” in which an animal is stuffed into another animal, then another, etc. (Think “turducken.”) Closer to home, you could try one of the world’s worst liquors, called Jeppson’s Malort, in Chicago, Illinois. Some people swear by it but, as you might guess, not all new experiences are delicious.
If you are feeling stuck in a rut, like Lu Ann Cahn was, consider setting goals and challenges for yourself to discover wonder again. In her book, “I Dare Me,” you
can read about how setting a goal to try something new every day for a year, this award-winning reporter was able to kickstart her enthusiasm for each new day. The book is described as “a road map for a journey of your own-an inspiring read that will dare you to open up to newness.” The book is broken down into different types of “firsts,” such as firsts for busy people, adrenaline rush firsts, firsts that overcome fears, firsts that give back and firsts you probably won’t do again.
Trying something new, like picking up a new hobby, traveling to a different locale, going out with a new friend, cooking an unusual recipe or switching up your home decor, can give you a fresh outlook. Check out a book, today, for inspiration on your next new thing!
