The Lost Continent
In 'The Lost Continent', Bill Bryson embarks on a hilarious and enlightening journey across America, tracing the paths of his childhood memories. As he delves into the heart of the country, he uncovers peculiar towns, oddball attractions, and the quirky aspects of American culture. His witty observations and engaging storytelling reveal both the charm and absurdity of road trips. Along the way, Bryson's encounters challenge his perceptions and ignite a nostalgia for the past. Will his exploration lead to a deeper understanding of America, or will he be further lost in its complexities?
By Bill Bryson
Published: 1990
""The United States is a strange and wonderful place, full of excitement and absurdity, where the only thing I can count on is the unexpected.""
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
An unsparing and hilarious account of one man's rediscovery of America and his search for the perfect small town.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from The Lost Continent
About the Author
Bill Bryson
Bill Bryson is a renowned American author known for his witty and engaging writing style. His works often blend humor with insightful observations about travel, science, and culture. Some of his most notable works include 'A Walk in the Woods,' where he humorously recounts his experiences hiking the Appalachian Trail, and 'A Short History of Nearly Everything,' a popular science book that breaks down complex topics into accessible language for the general reader. Bryson's ability to make the ordinary extraordinary has garnered him a loyal readership and critical acclaim.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Bill Bryson
- Published
- August 1990
- Publisher
- Harper Collins
- ISBN
- 0060920084
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 324
- Genres
- Travel MemoirsLiteratureCultural TravelTravel
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
The Art of Stillness
Pico Iyer
Vagabonding
Rolf Potts
American Gods
Neil Gaiman
Travels with Charley in Search of America
John Steinbeck
The Success Equation
Michael J. Mauboussin
Gulliver's Travels
Jonathan Swift
Amazing Things Will Happen
C. C. Chapman
Bell Curve
Richard J. Herrnstein, Charles Murray
The Traveler's Gift
Andy Andrews
A Room of One's Own
Virginia Woolf
Last Chance to See
Douglas Adams, Mark Carwardine
Time Travel
James Gleick
Arcadia
Tom Stoppard
The Library Book
Susan Orlean
The Secrets We Kept
Lara Prescott
In Patagonia
Bruce Chatwin
Cultural Amnesia
Clive James
Postcards from Tomorrow Square
James Fallows
The Travels of Marco Polo
Marco Polo
Boomerang: Travels in the New Third World
Michael Lewis
Life and Teaching of the Masters of the Far East (6 Volume Set)
Baird Thomas Spalding
Heart of Darkness
Joseph Conrad
All Over the Place
Geraldine DeRuiter
Quicklet on Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
Richard Childers
Travels in Siberia
Ian Frazier
Remix
Lawrence Lessig
My Life on the Road
Gloria Steinem
Life Ascending
Nick Lane
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Adam Shoalts's Book Recommendations
Adam Shoalts is a Canadian explorer, historian, and author renowned for his solo expeditions into some of the most remote regions of the world. He gained widespread recognition with his best-selling book, *Alone Against the North*, which recounts his daring adventures in the uncharted wilderness of Canada. Shoalts's contributions to literature extend beyond thrilling narratives; his works also provide valuable insights into the natural world and the challenges of exploration. In 2017, he embarked on a remarkable 4,000-kilometer journey across the Canadian Arctic, which he documented in his book *Beyond the Trees*. His writings have cemented his reputation as one of Canada's leading voices in adventure literature.
View Collection
Shane Parrish's Book Recommendations
Shane Parrish is a renowned author and the founder of Farnam Street, a popular blog dedicated to personal development and decision-making. His insightful writings delve into mental models, critical thinking, and learning strategies, earning him a significant following among intellectuals and professionals alike. Parrish's work emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and thinking differently to achieve success. He is also the host of "The Knowledge Project" podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers to uncover their wisdom. His contributions have made a substantial impact on how readers approach problem-solving and personal growth.
View Collection
Liz Lambert's Book Recommendations
Liz Lambert is a renowned American hotelier and creative visionary, best known for transforming the hospitality industry through her innovative designs and storytelling approach. Though not primarily an author, Lambert's influence extends into literature through her evocative narratives about the places and people that inspire her work. Her most notable project, Hotel San José in Austin, Texas, has become a cultural landmark, celebrated in numerous design and lifestyle publications. Lambert's contributions have been documented in various books and documentaries, highlighting her impact on modern hospitality and design. Her ability to blend personal stories with public spaces has redefined the guest experience, making her a pivotal figure in contemporary hotel culture.
View Collection
Ina May Gaskin's Book Recommendations
Ina May Gaskin is a midwife and author renowned for her advocacy of natural childbirth. She is the founder of The Farm Midwifery Center in Tennessee and the author of Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth, which has inspired generations of women to embrace natural birth practices. Gaskin’s work focuses on empowering women with knowledge and confidence during childbirth, advocating for a holistic and less medicalized approach to labor and delivery. Her influence in the field of midwifery has been profound, helping to reshape modern perspectives on childbirth.
View Collection
Oprah Winfrey's Book Recommendations
Oprah Winfrey is a globally renowned media mogul, talk show host, and philanthropist. She gained fame through her groundbreaking talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show," which ran for 25 years and became one of the highest-rated programs in television history. Winfrey has significantly impacted literature through her influential book club, Oprah's Book Club, which has propelled numerous books to bestseller status and fostered a love of reading across diverse audiences. She is also the author of several books, including her memoir "The Life You Want," and has contributed to numerous inspirational and self-help publications. Beyond her literary contributions, Winfrey has been a powerful advocate for education and empowerment, founding the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.
View Collection
Anya Taylor-Joy's Book Recommendations
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Brad Feld's Book Recommendations
Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.
View Collection
Nat Eliason's Book Recommendations
Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.
View Collection
Anthony Bourdain's Book Recommendations
Anthony Bourdain was an acclaimed chef, author, and television personality known for his deep exploration of global cuisine and culture. He gained widespread recognition with his 2000 bestseller "Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly," which offered an unvarnished look behind the scenes of the restaurant industry. Bourdain's literary talents extended to several other books, including "A Cook's Tour" and "Medium Raw," further cementing his status as a compelling storyteller. His groundbreaking TV shows such as "No Reservations" and "Parts Unknown" took viewers on culinary adventures around the world, earning him numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. Bourdain's legacy endures as a pioneer who celebrated the richness of diverse cultures through food.
View Collection
Radhika Jones's Book Recommendations
Radhika Jones is a prominent American editor and journalist, celebrated for her role as the editor-in-chief of *Vanity Fair*, a position she has held since 2017. Under her leadership, the magazine has embraced a broader range of voices and contemporary issues, reinvigorating its cultural relevance. Before her tenure at *Vanity Fair*, Jones served as editorial director at *The New York Times* books department and as managing editor at *Time* magazine. She holds a Ph.D. in English and Comparative Literature from Columbia University, reflecting her deep academic engagement with literature. Jones is widely respected for her keen editorial vision and commitment to diversity and inclusion in media.
View Collection
Hugh Jackman's Book Recommendations
Hugh Jackman, better known for his illustrious acting career, has made significant contributions to literature through his co-authorship of the popular children's book series, "The School of Life." Born in Sydney, Australia, Jackman has seamlessly transitioned from stage and screen to the literary world, captivating young readers with his imaginative storytelling. His work in literature reflects his versatility and dedication to inspiring and educating children. Alongside his wife, Deborra-Lee Furness, Jackman has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, promoting literacy and education globally. Despite his Hollywood fame, Jackman's contributions to literature highlight his commitment to nurturing young minds.
View Collection
Kara Swisher's Book Recommendations
Kara Swisher is an American journalist, podcaster, and one of the most influential voices in tech reporting. She co-founded Recode and co-hosts the Pivot podcast, where she covers the intersection of technology, business, and politics. Swisher is known for her sharp insights and fearless interviews with some of the biggest names in Silicon Valley. She has been a longtime commentator on tech's impact on society and is often called upon for her critical analysis of industry giants like Facebook, Google, and Amazon. Swisher continues to be a leading figure in tech journalism, influencing both public discourse and policy conversations.
View Collection
Amelia Boone's Book Recommendations
Amelia Boone is a renowned American obstacle racer and ultrarunner, celebrated for her remarkable achievements in the sport. She has won multiple world championships, including the Spartan Race World Championship and the World's Toughest Mudder. Boone's compelling personal journey and resilience have inspired countless athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Though primarily known for her athletic prowess, Boone has also contributed to literature through insightful articles and motivational writings on endurance, mental toughness, and overcoming adversity. Her story continues to influence and empower individuals striving for excellence in both sports and life.
View Collection“"The United States is a strange and wonderful place, full of excitement and absurdity, where the only thing I can count on is the unexpected."”
The Lost Continent
By Bill Bryson
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.