Cory Mortensen’s The Buddha and the Bee is the epic chronicling of his thirty-four day ride from Minnesota to California on his bicycle in hopes of escaping his mundane life for a little while. On the journey, he finds small towns and the people who inhabit them, along with some shady motels. While many of us were dealing with the heartache of 9/11, Cory was seeing a world many don’t see on the interstates and planes. Often he finds himself questioning this not so planned out journey as unforeseen obstacles like numerous flats, broken spokes, and dogs plague him. Along the way, he discovers himself in the simplicity of America’s highways and finds enjoyment in just existing.

Mortensen is kind enough to take us with him each day of his journey, with some extra adventures after the initial ride. We get to really be part of his struggles and triumphs, down to the search for what to eat. He lays his route out so well one could follow it if one should wish. He even alerts the potential traveler to the trouble spots. He flavors the journey with tidbits and facts about places and things he comes across on the journey. I gained so many new wrinkles in my brain on this journey. I also loved the humorous tone the book had, which set it apart from other nonfiction pieces. Mortensen keeps readers riveted with his wit and observations. Included in this book are several lists that those looking to take a journey like this will find helpful.

The Buddha and the Bee is an entertaining memoir and dramatically different from what readers typically find. Mortensen gives us an in-depth and funny look into his journey through America’s roads. I highly recommend this to anyone who wants a not-so-average travel read. With his wit and facts, he gives us a superb read that you don’t want to put down.

Pages: 350 | ASIN : B08FLLBBP9