The Old Patagonian Express

Embark on an epic railway odyssey with Paul Theroux in "The Old Patagonian Express," a seminal travel memoir that charts a remarkable course from the urban sprawl of Boston to the desolate, windswept reaches of Patagonia. What begins as a routine subway ride transforms into a sprawling, continent-spanning adventure aboard an array of trains—from the Lake Shore Limited across the United States, through the vibrant landscapes of Mexico and Central America, over the towering Andes, and finally, aboard the eponymous, meandering steam engine. Theroux masterfully interweaves keen observations of the social fabric and breathtaking natural beauty encountered along the way, demonstrating the unique perspective offered by train travel. More than just a geographical journey, it's a profound exploration of human connection, revealed through an unforgettable cast of characters: the eccentric Mr. Thornberry, the enigmatic bogus priest of Cali, and the legendary blind writer Jorge Luis Borges, for whom Theroux reads Stevenson. This is a journey that reveals the soul of a continent and the enduring allure of the rails.