Old Glory by Jonathan Raban

In this travelogue, the author embarks on an ambitious solo journey down the Mississippi River, navigating the complex currents of both the waterway and the American heartland. Steering a 16-foot aluminum motorboat, he delves into the diverse cultures, histories, and landscapes of the river, encountering a vivid cast of characters along the way. The narrative captures the essence of the United States during a particular period, exploring the intersection of the past and present, the urban and rural, and the mythic versus the everyday. Through his eyes, readers experience the mighty river's role as both a conduit for adventure and a mirror reflecting the nation's soul.

The 1507th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 279

Since this book was first published in 1981, there is a penalty of 11.2%. The age adjusted score is 247.75.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.