Twenty West: The Great Road Across America

by Mac Nelson

In a compilation of essays and travelogues, the author chronicles his odyssey along America's longest road, U.S. 20, which covers more than three thousand miles from Boston, Massachusetts, to Newport, Oregon, reflecting on the diverse history, landscape, geography, politics, culture, and other idiosyncratic people and places that he encountered during his journeys.

320 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 2008

Reviews

[Poptartk · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm a sucker for books about "the road" (in terms of road trips), and I doubly love books about Yellowstone NP, and this book fits both bills... BUT it was written in a kind of hybrid of travelogue and academic study of a particular (but quite significant) historical highway. Especially at the beginning, the academic side bogs the narrative down a bit. Still, the Yellowstone and points west portion was a real joy, especially the author's account of his backcountry canoe trips on Yellowstone and Shoshone lakes.

[John Eric Edinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twenty West is about highway U.S. twenty which goes from the east to west coast. It is more than a description of the road and its geography. The book is a fantastic history of the U.S. from before early Pilgrams landing up to and beyond the start of the 21st centuary.Well referenced sources, descriptive subtopics within chapters, written in readable english with few big literary descriptions that need looking up.

[Kelly · Rating 1 out of 5]

He only cares about the Boston area, apparently, and he leaves little to talk about further west since there aren't many places of literary excellence. This guy is irritating, self-absorbed, and tenure-hungry. Did you really need to inform us your friend (!!!!) dated Sylvia Plath? It doesn't give you any more credit. Also, why route 20? Route 30 is the real Great Road of America.
Run far, far away from this book. It's like a terrible history text book with the author seeking credibility for knowing a bit about Boston's literary scene.

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mac is a fascinating and incredibly sharp guy, and he manages to display his wit, knowledge and awe in equal measure here. Definitely for anyone living on or near Route 20, and probably for anyone who enjoys a good multi-disciplinary study of America.

[Ira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read for those wanting a literary journey across the US

[Erik · Rating 1 out of 5]

I challenge you to find a more self-indulgent book. Nine months later, and my wife and I STILL make fun of this book.

[Eileen Charbonneau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like a dream course combining history, poetry, philosophy and a deep love of America. Arm chair traveling at its best!