Synopsis
Kyle Battisti’s “Somewhere Found” is “vividly written and delivers a true sense of life-affirming joy, blending history and culture from inaccessible corners of the world.” (James Hendicott, for IndieReader)
Like Robert Louis Stevenson, who said, “I travel not to go anywhere, but to go,” modern-day flâneur Kyle Battisti has circled the globe, forgoing Insta-famous destinations in favor of the offbeat and uncelebrated, from Kurdistan to Sudan, Mauritania to Lithuania.
Growing up a self-described outsider in 1980s Utah, he was awestruck by Arabian domes found in encyclopedias and the curiously named Yugoslavia of his sixth-grade school report, a fascination with places unknown that persisted as he stumbled into adulthood, now with boarding passes in hand. "Somewhere Found" chronicles his far-flung explorations as he gulps down horse sausage in Kyrgyzstan, battles leeches in Sri Lanka, listens for ghosts in a decommissioned Latvian prison, and, one hot-mess Christmas Eve, makes a questionable purchase at a gay Moscow nightclub.
In intelligent, insightful, and often hilarious detail that evokes the greats — Jan Morris, David Sedaris, Edmund White — Battisti’s forays in “hidden cemeteries, seductive alleys, elaborate doorways, and quiet gardens that both cats and pigeons call home” take readers on an unforgettable armchair journey.
Kyle Battisti’s Somewhere Found is a captivating blend of travel memoir, personal introspection, and cultural exploration that redefines the travel writing genre. Eschewing popular tourist destinations, Battisti ventures into lesser-known corners of the globe—places like Mauritania, Lithuania, and Kurdistan—offering a refreshingly original perspective on the world.
What Makes This Book Exceptional
Authentic Self-Reflection:
Battisti’s narrative is not just about exploring unfamiliar places but also about uncovering fragments of his own identity. His thoughtful introspection resonates deeply, as he uses travel as a lens to examine his place in the world.
Rich Descriptions:
Each destination is brought to life with vivid, sensory detail, from the chaos of Addis Ababa to the haunting quiet of a decommissioned Latvian prison. His writing feels immersive, painting pictures that linger long after the chapter ends.
Blending History and Culture:
Battisti seamlessly weaves historical and cultural insights into his narrative, offering readers a deeper understanding of the places he visits. His reflections on Ethiopia’s spiritual essence or the socio-political dynamics of Armenia elevate the book beyond typical travelogues.
Humor and Humanity:
With wit reminiscent of David Sedaris, Battisti captures the absurdities and quirks of his adventures, like a chaotic Christmas Eve in a Moscow nightclub or battling leeches in Sri Lanka. These moments balance the book’s more serious introspective tones, adding warmth and relatability.
Focus on Lesser-Known Destinations:
By highlighting obscure and offbeat locales, Battisti invites readers to expand their horizons and rethink preconceived notions about travel. His genuine curiosity and respect for different cultures shine through, making this a truly enriching read.
Room for Improvement
More Structure in Narrative Flow:
While the episodic structure works for a travel memoir, some transitions between chapters feel abrupt. A stronger overarching theme could have provided more narrative cohesion.
Deeper Dive Into Certain Locales:
Some destinations, while beautifully described, feel rushed. Readers might yearn for even more depth in places where the cultural or historical complexities are particularly rich.
Final Thoughts
Somewhere Found is travel writing at its finest—insightful, engaging, and deeply human. Battisti’s ability to intertwine personal memoir with cultural exploration creates a narrative that feels both intimate and universal. It’s a book for those who see travel as more than just visiting new places but as a journey to better understand the world and oneself.
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