Worldwalk by Steven M. Newman (1989-05-05)

Stephen M. Newman, a 6'2" 28 year old journalist decided to walk around the world with his giant backpack clinger, living only on hospitality, to see if the world is really still a good place. The fact that this is a real story, a real account makes the most impact on me. In the ancient days, people made pilgrimages, holy quests and this is what his story was of, a modern pilgrimage. He comes across as optimistic and faces the world with a sense of humor even though some of the things he sees and the people he encounters are truly horrible. His optimism seems a little forced sometimes, a little overzealous, but maybe that was how he really felt. Anyways, I guess nobody likes a whiner, and who would really want to listen to him whine? During his whole voyage, there were a number of times that he did get lucky, and from his account, a lot of the people he met were friendly and kind and hospitable, and that has a lot to say about the world. So you should read this story, he points out some interesting socialogical standpoints about how people in other countries see Americans, and it makes you feel like being an american is something truly lucky to be. He was very brave, to do what he did. It probably was a lot harder than he made it sound. You can find Steve in the 1988 Guinness book of world records as the first person to walk around the world alone.

If you've never been able to travel the world & see how other cultures live, this IS the book to read. I could not put this book down. He puts you there w/ him allowing you to experience his fears and wonders of the strange lands he visits.An unbelievable story of one man's journey into the unknown on Earth. Do not miss your chance to walk our world w/ him. You won't regret it!

This is one of my most favorite books - Mr. Newmans' writing of his trip through Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia made me want to chuck everything and go along with him! His indominable spirit and enthusiasm to see and experience what the world has to offer is a clarion call to one and all that our world, with all of its' problems, is a wonderous place, filled with fantastic people. Every time I read and re-read it, I want to make the same journey, and, in reading it, I do!