Following the Equator: A Journey Around the World is a travelogue written by Mark Twain which provides a fascinating account of his adventures as he circumnavigates the globe. Twain's wit and humor shines through in his observations of the various cultures and landscapes he encounters, making for an engaging and entertaining read.

One of the most striking aspects of the book is Twain's ability to capture the essence of each place he visits, from the bustling streets of Bombay to the serene beauty of Fiji. His keen eye for detail brings each location to life, allowing the reader to feel as if they are right there alongside him on his journey.

In addition to his vivid descriptions, Twain also tackles weightier topics such as colonialism and imperialism, providing thought-provoking commentary on the impact of Western influence on the indigenous peoples he encounters. This adds depth and substance to the book, elevating it from a simple travelogue to a thoughtful examination of the complexities of global interactions.

Overall, Following the Equator: A Journey Around the World is a captivating and illuminating read that showcases Twain's talent as a writer and keen observer of the world. Whether you are a fan of travel writing, historical commentary, or just enjoy a good story, this book is sure to entertain and educate. Highly recommended for anyone with a sense of wanderlust and a curiosity about the world beyond their own backyard.

Book Description:

Following the Equator (American English title) or More Tramps Abroad (English title) is a non-fiction travelogue published by American author Mark Twain in 1897.

Twain was practically bankrupt in 1894 due to a failed investment into a “revolutionary” typesetting machine. In an attempt to extricate himself from debt of $100,000 (equivalent of about $2 million in 2005) he undertook a tour of the British Empire in 1895, a route chosen to provide numerous opportunities for lectures in the English language.

In Following the Equator, an account of that travel published in 1897, the author unmasks and criticizes racism, imperialism and missionary zeal in observations woven into the narrative with classical Twain wit.

Of particular interest, historically, are Twain’s references to Cecil Rhodes in Australia and South Africa, the in-depth description of “Thugs” and “Thuggee” in India and the Boer War period and diamonds in South Africa.