Trip

Review by Mary Keener

The subtitle, Nomadic in America, describes what type of journey the reader will embark on. But much more is in store.

Ms. Tupper, after losing her dead-end job, begins a new life of freedom following little schedule, fulfilling lots of spur-of-the-moment desires and dreams. She accomplishes this with her husband in a refurbished VW bus, and with her dog/wolf.

Both Tuppers are resourceful, reflective, witty, playful, imaginative creatures of the land who respect nature and its former inhabitants. They are young and wise - a rare combination. And they are adventurous. We are treated with information about the flora, fauna and the history of the landscape where we camp. Best of all, Ms. Tupper's knowledge, excitement and esteem for all creatures and plants take the reader easily along on her numerous exploratory walks.

We accompany this family through seven states and parts of Canada. I learned there's no need to travel far to experience a different culture, weather changes and landscape peculiarities.

Periodically Melany Tupper engages in internal dialog, expressing her delight or intense disfavor with circumstances and types of people. See if you agree.

Interspersed throughout are quotes reflective of a mood or event - a definite plus to depth, either serious or hilarious.

For a first book, this is a winner.

• Trip by Melany Tupper