Book Review: The River of Doubt

After so enjoying Candice Millard's Destiny of the Republic, I was thrilled to discover another audio book written by her available at my library. Once again, she thrusts the reader back in time, painting vivid settings and peopling them with outstanding individuals. In this book, The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt's Darkest Journey, Millard chronicles Roosevelt's dangerous trek to map the "River of Doubt" in Brazil. The former president's bold determination and keen spirit of adventure shine through. Roosevelt and his fellow explorers face many obstacles, from infiltrating the territory of hostile Indians, losing canoes and provisions, to murder and threats of suicide. 

A captivating journey of a great man, and the epilogue proved just as fascinating as the quest. In contemplating Roosevelt's son, how can such an intrepid individual sink into alcoholism? His path seemed similar to my husband's younger brother. Wasted potential, disastrous descent. Like The Midnight Library, this reminds me again that every little choice can lead to an unexpected trajectory in our lives.