What do you think?
Rate this book
Alone In The Wind: A Journal of Discovery in 'The Summer of 88'
#1 AMAZON BEST SELLER - The Classic Account Of 20th Century Motorcycle TouringIn the long hot 'Summer of 88', the author packed up his motorcycle and pulled out of the garage with no destination or return date in mind. 1988 would prove to be the worst drought since the ‘dustbowl’ of the 1930’s. Yellowstone would burn, Ronald Reagan would shake his fist at the 'Evil Empire', and the author, oblivious to it all, hit the road and never looked back.That trip would consume the entire summer, logging over twelve thousand miles from sea to sea and back. “Alone In The Wind” is the account of that trip, with pictures, maps, historical & geographical notes, and rolling narrative. A few selected heart went out to the pioneer families in their wagon trains who would have been faced with the same grim prospects. Hurried along by their determination to pass Independence Rock by July 4th, here it was June and the passes were snowbound.The early evening sun is bright red and except for wind slapping the tents, all is quiet. Other campers are talking in subdued tones. The scene has a timeless quality I can’t explain. Maybe it’s how I’d picture an Oregon Trail camp. Everybody too exhausted to do more than whisper, anticipating the day ahead, trying to forget the ones behind.Kurt Vonnegut might have written that the Custer annihilation occurred solely to provide me with a ranger to give advice on the coming storms. That irony rattled around in my helmet for the next forty miles.Chewing mindlessly I stare at passing trucks with red eyes. This has been an endless, grueling day. A far cry from the mystical experience that other writers claim. The bone numbing reality of motorcycle touring is exhaustion, dehydration, disorientation. Vacant eyes seem to be nothing more than rubber stoppers that keep my liquefied brains from spilling out over my face.Carved out by the tides, the cave is probably underwater for most of the day. At the entrance is a rock with a well-formed depression at the top. Without thinking I dump both bottles of Atlantic Ocean into that shallow basin, move deeper into the cave and sit. There’s a lot on my mind, and it all seems to be demanding immediate attention. The mission will be accomplished. The oceans will unite. It will take a few hours, and I won’t be here to see it, but this is a better way. Letting the sea take it on its own terms seems more fitting.Heat was the real problem. Both the heat of a western summer day and the heat thrown off an air-cooled engine that's being pushed to its limits. While it was never transcendental, the passage was always very real, very immediate, and unforgettable. Thinking back to the other riders that I met, it seemed the same for them as well. They were all worn down with fatigue and loneliness - while at the same time brimming over with confidence and satisfaction. I won't forget them.
- GenresTravelMotorcycle
223 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 5, 2015
167 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
March 29, 2020
Perhaps motorcyclists begin reading motorcycle adventure books when they begin to go into the garage and view their steed as a proponent of freedom. As a motorcyclist who has a few tours under my belt, this book felt comfortable because it included the realities of adventures: not everything on the adventure will be an adventure.
Alone in the Wind provides a good picture of what it is actually like on a motorcycle tour, the long days, the heat, the people that you meet or do not meet, and the daily activities that themselves become ritualistic. For Schiereck, "I knew I could stay the course and stagnate, or stir the pot and grow. The clock keeps ticking either way." (8)
Schiereck provides a nice insight into the realities of stirring the pot, especially on a motorcycle. He writes, "This had been an endless, grueling day. A far cry from the mystical experience that other writers claim, the bone numbing reality of motorcycle touring is exhaustion, dehydration, disorientation." (108)
This statement and the reality that taking off on such adventures together make Alone In the Wind a good book to read for those with experience in motorcycling long distances. Speaking of the other riders he had met on the road, Shiereck writes: "They were all worn down with fatigue and lonliness, while at the same time brimming over with confidence and satisfaction." (200)
Schiereck is a bit of pessimist at times and his writing mirrors what I would believe is his attitude towards life: don't expect much and you won't be disappointed. However, if you are thinking of an adventure, this is a good place to get a real sense of what it is to be on an adventure. My bike awaits me as I write.
Alone in the Wind provides a good picture of what it is actually like on a motorcycle tour, the long days, the heat, the people that you meet or do not meet, and the daily activities that themselves become ritualistic. For Schiereck, "I knew I could stay the course and stagnate, or stir the pot and grow. The clock keeps ticking either way." (8)
Schiereck provides a nice insight into the realities of stirring the pot, especially on a motorcycle. He writes, "This had been an endless, grueling day. A far cry from the mystical experience that other writers claim, the bone numbing reality of motorcycle touring is exhaustion, dehydration, disorientation." (108)
This statement and the reality that taking off on such adventures together make Alone In the Wind a good book to read for those with experience in motorcycling long distances. Speaking of the other riders he had met on the road, Shiereck writes: "They were all worn down with fatigue and lonliness, while at the same time brimming over with confidence and satisfaction." (200)
Schiereck is a bit of pessimist at times and his writing mirrors what I would believe is his attitude towards life: don't expect much and you won't be disappointed. However, if you are thinking of an adventure, this is a good place to get a real sense of what it is to be on an adventure. My bike awaits me as I write.
October 2, 2016
Fantastic Journey of Discovery!
Anyone who cherishes the imagery of searching for freedom through a road trip will love this story. Ride along with Chuck on his motorcycle exploring the open road as he travels cross country to discover many things, including himself.
Even if you've never ridden a motorcycle, you will enjoy Chuck's adventure through his vivid descriptions of the grandeur and spirit of some of America's greatest natural resources--our National Parks.
You too might find, as Chuck did, that people are "transformed gradually by the sum of their experiences and learning."
Thanks for taking me on your journey.
Anyone who cherishes the imagery of searching for freedom through a road trip will love this story. Ride along with Chuck on his motorcycle exploring the open road as he travels cross country to discover many things, including himself.
Even if you've never ridden a motorcycle, you will enjoy Chuck's adventure through his vivid descriptions of the grandeur and spirit of some of America's greatest natural resources--our National Parks.
You too might find, as Chuck did, that people are "transformed gradually by the sum of their experiences and learning."
Thanks for taking me on your journey.
June 6, 2017
Well worth the wait
In a style not unlike your approach to travel, your writing struck a chord in me. The way you cut through unneeded prose just as you did without an over-built bike or luxuries versus Spartan essentials made for an excellent read. While recovering from 4 spine surgeries over the years I have stayed close to my favorite "pastime" by reading many books about the topic while on the mend. Yours stands out in the way it doesn't bog down the reader with the usual layers of a fiction novel almost always suffers... your book is not without its own literary technique but I found it refreshing and to the point. It seemed as if that was due in large part to how you tick in general....passing on My St Helens for example. I guess it's true that we leave a bit of ourselves for all to see in everything we write. Your book moved me and fortified my desire to write down my recollections of a lifetime of motorcycle adventures and trips yet to come.
I close my first review ever with a sincere Thank You. I wish you well and I hope to read about more of your adventures.
In a style not unlike your approach to travel, your writing struck a chord in me. The way you cut through unneeded prose just as you did without an over-built bike or luxuries versus Spartan essentials made for an excellent read. While recovering from 4 spine surgeries over the years I have stayed close to my favorite "pastime" by reading many books about the topic while on the mend. Yours stands out in the way it doesn't bog down the reader with the usual layers of a fiction novel almost always suffers... your book is not without its own literary technique but I found it refreshing and to the point. It seemed as if that was due in large part to how you tick in general....passing on My St Helens for example. I guess it's true that we leave a bit of ourselves for all to see in everything we write. Your book moved me and fortified my desire to write down my recollections of a lifetime of motorcycle adventures and trips yet to come.
I close my first review ever with a sincere Thank You. I wish you well and I hope to read about more of your adventures.
November 25, 2020
Nice Ride
This book takes you on a no frills ride across the country and back . Right up front ill explain the 4 stars. It may seem trivial, he never once mentioned what type or brand bike he was riding. That pissed me off every time he got on it, just trying to imagine what it was. He explained the difficulty of riding long distances in all types weather and wrote about his loneliness of traveling alone. In the end it was well written and fun to read. I finally found out in his notes he was riding a Yamaha Virago 750 CD good book!
This book takes you on a no frills ride across the country and back . Right up front ill explain the 4 stars. It may seem trivial, he never once mentioned what type or brand bike he was riding. That pissed me off every time he got on it, just trying to imagine what it was. He explained the difficulty of riding long distances in all types weather and wrote about his loneliness of traveling alone. In the end it was well written and fun to read. I finally found out in his notes he was riding a Yamaha Virago 750 CD good book!
December 22, 2018
Motorcycling across the US in the rain, wind, and cold.
Living out of saddlebags while riding a motorcycle across the country is not as easy nor as glamorous as it appears to be. The determination and effort required by the author to see such a journey through to its end is told in this great book about his ride from sea to shining sea. Everyone should have a journey like this at least once in a lifetime.
Living out of saddlebags while riding a motorcycle across the country is not as easy nor as glamorous as it appears to be. The determination and effort required by the author to see such a journey through to its end is told in this great book about his ride from sea to shining sea. Everyone should have a journey like this at least once in a lifetime.
May 16, 2018
Amazing story
This was an amazing story of travel. As someone who is planning a bike trip, I wanted to see others perspectives on the open road. This story was full of disovery, discomfort, happiness, loneliness, and riding. I fully recommend this book to anybody who rides and understands the struggle and joy of it. Great book.
This was an amazing story of travel. As someone who is planning a bike trip, I wanted to see others perspectives on the open road. This story was full of disovery, discomfort, happiness, loneliness, and riding. I fully recommend this book to anybody who rides and understands the struggle and joy of it. Great book.
June 30, 2018
Disappointing
Excited for this book, since I also left NJ on a motorcycle in the 1980s for a cross country adventure. The author's account of his trip sounded like an account I might write about my job, little enthusiasm and, at times, dismal. It sometimes felt like his journey was a job. I hope he embraced and enjoyed his adventure more than this book indicates.
Excited for this book, since I also left NJ on a motorcycle in the 1980s for a cross country adventure. The author's account of his trip sounded like an account I might write about my job, little enthusiasm and, at times, dismal. It sometimes felt like his journey was a job. I hope he embraced and enjoyed his adventure more than this book indicates.
November 17, 2018
I enjoyed the ride
In 1988 I was riding a 1986 Ninja 600. A different machine than the author's 750 air cooled V Twin, but same era. Can't imagine going cross country on mine, but live the idea of the trip. Who doesn't? If I never make that run, there will always be books like this. But yeah never know!
In 1988 I was riding a 1986 Ninja 600. A different machine than the author's 750 air cooled V Twin, but same era. Can't imagine going cross country on mine, but live the idea of the trip. Who doesn't? If I never make that run, there will always be books like this. But yeah never know!
January 11, 2019
This was a fun take on cross country road trips. I appreciated some of the anecdotes, and the informal language reminds me of the thought process during some of my own solo road trips. The major downside is that the narrative was a bit too self-indulgent, which can be hard to avoid in this genre, and detracted a bit from the spectacles. Overall a quick and fun read, though.
March 4, 2019
I Ride
I Ride a 2012 Fat boy. I learned to ride at 55 and joined a club made of Woman who ride. We have ridden to most every state in the union. But as much as I love my Wind Sisters. I adore the freedom of riding alone. I could relate so well because I have been there.
Oh and information at end of book was good as well.
I Ride a 2012 Fat boy. I learned to ride at 55 and joined a club made of Woman who ride. We have ridden to most every state in the union. But as much as I love my Wind Sisters. I adore the freedom of riding alone. I could relate so well because I have been there.
Oh and information at end of book was good as well.
April 18, 2023
now I want to tour the country
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and didn’t want to stop reading. The author kept the text on track and didn’t water it down with unnecessary banter or prolonged rambling like you often find it books like this. Upon finishing, I am more than inspired to set out on a long trek on my Harley, thanks Charles!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and didn’t want to stop reading. The author kept the text on track and didn’t water it down with unnecessary banter or prolonged rambling like you often find it books like this. Upon finishing, I am more than inspired to set out on a long trek on my Harley, thanks Charles!
July 1, 2020
Quite an adventure!!
I enjoyed your book immensely. You are an exceptional writer. I'm getting ready now to read your book Ghosts in the wind. I know I'll like it because of your writing style. Stay safe and keep on writing!!
Christine
I enjoyed your book immensely. You are an exceptional writer. I'm getting ready now to read your book Ghosts in the wind. I know I'll like it because of your writing style. Stay safe and keep on writing!!
Christine
June 14, 2023
Great story of his trip.
I enjoyed Charles' depiction of what he saw, and how he felt. I could visualize the sights along the way, and how it felt out on the road alone, both good and difficult. Seemed like I went along (without the pain).
I enjoyed Charles' depiction of what he saw, and how he felt. I could visualize the sights along the way, and how it felt out on the road alone, both good and difficult. Seemed like I went along (without the pain).
April 25, 2024
Like being on the road with him….
I really like Chuck’s writing style. This is the second book of his I’ve read. Even in reverse order they were fun to read. If you like touring by bike, with a little history of the area thrown in, you will LOVE this book. 5 stars!!
I really like Chuck’s writing style. This is the second book of his I’ve read. Even in reverse order they were fun to read. If you like touring by bike, with a little history of the area thrown in, you will LOVE this book. 5 stars!!
May 3, 2024
good story
I enjoyed this book . The author never glorified his effort and threw in the bad as well as the good parts of his adventure . I had an 88 Yamaha virago I can’t imagine going across US on it .
I enjoyed this book . The author never glorified his effort and threw in the bad as well as the good parts of his adventure . I had an 88 Yamaha virago I can’t imagine going across US on it .
April 11, 2018
very nicely written. Easy read.
August 13, 2019
A simple read that contained thoughts and experiences that mirrored my ride to Alaska in 2019.
May 26, 2020
Long ride
A personally held and honest effort. Clear voice. I have also done long rides on two wheels and empathize with the author. Thanks.
A personally held and honest effort. Clear voice. I have also done long rides on two wheels and empathize with the author. Thanks.
November 14, 2020
This was a pretty good tale of one mans ride across the country. I can totally admire the trip, and think it was crazy at the same time.
January 2, 2021
Loved this book. Reignited my wonder lust. Easy to read
June 20, 2021
Great Trio
Since I've been on a few cross country trips on my bike, I can relate to his story. Enjoyed the book!!
Since I've been on a few cross country trips on my bike, I can relate to his story. Enjoyed the book!!
December 11, 2024
great read
Really enjoyed this book. A great narrative of a cross country bike ride. Makes me want to get this on my list of places to go and things to see.
Really enjoyed this book. A great narrative of a cross country bike ride. Makes me want to get this on my list of places to go and things to see.
October 10, 2016
This retelling of the author’s trek across America, by motorcycle, is an amazing piece of work. It is by no means written to appeal to biking enthusiasts, alone. On the contrary, the author tells his story with a charm and wit that will appeal to men and women, young and old.
And what is that story? It is a story about America, spliced here and there with just enough history to entertain you. But mainly, “America” is revealed in the telling of the story itself, an America that existed in 1988, which some will fondly recognize and others will never know existed.
The author has no axes to grind, except maybe his own. There is a light “coming of age” feeling to the events that unfold, but mainly, I heard pure joy and openness to possibility in the author’s voice, even when the going got rough, as it often did, for various reasons.
I think the part that stuck most with me was being dropped into this adventure, as the author was, in 1988, without the aid of cell phones or any other devices that keep us so connected (and yet not connected) to everyone else, leaving us to connect with the land, the people, and ultimately, ourselves.
Whether you ever contemplate a trip like this or not, much less take one, the story has a lot to offer.
It is America, frozen in the lens of the author’s words and pictures, as it existed in a seemingly simpler, and infinitely happier, place and time.
And what is that story? It is a story about America, spliced here and there with just enough history to entertain you. But mainly, “America” is revealed in the telling of the story itself, an America that existed in 1988, which some will fondly recognize and others will never know existed.
The author has no axes to grind, except maybe his own. There is a light “coming of age” feeling to the events that unfold, but mainly, I heard pure joy and openness to possibility in the author’s voice, even when the going got rough, as it often did, for various reasons.
I think the part that stuck most with me was being dropped into this adventure, as the author was, in 1988, without the aid of cell phones or any other devices that keep us so connected (and yet not connected) to everyone else, leaving us to connect with the land, the people, and ultimately, ourselves.
Whether you ever contemplate a trip like this or not, much less take one, the story has a lot to offer.
It is America, frozen in the lens of the author’s words and pictures, as it existed in a seemingly simpler, and infinitely happier, place and time.
April 29, 2017
Ride from coast to coast on a Motorcycle
Interesting account of riding a motorcycle from New Jersey to the Pacific ocean! The author seemed rather depressed while on the road until he got to Yellowstone park. He seemed to find something of interest at this park!
Interesting account of riding a motorcycle from New Jersey to the Pacific ocean! The author seemed rather depressed while on the road until he got to Yellowstone park. He seemed to find something of interest at this park!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews