River of doubt by Candice Millard

"The river was their companion and their enemy, a source of life and a harbinger of death."

River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt's Darkest Journey by Candice Millard is a gripping and meticulously researched historical account that takes readers on an extraordinary adventure into the heart of the Amazon rainforest. With prose that keeps the story moving, Millard recounts Theodore Roosevelt's perilous expedition to explore an uncharted river in Brazil called the River of Doubt. Facing treacherous rapids, debilitating illness, and encounters with hostile indigenous tribes, Roosevelt and his team battle for survival in one of Earth's most unforgiving and untamed regions.

Millard's vivid descriptions bring every aspect of the journey to life, from the lush beauty of the jungle to the heart-pounding encounters with dangerous wildlife and indigenous tribes. River of Doubt also captures the essence of Theodore Roosevelt's adventurous spirit and the incredible challenges he and his team faced. Captured beautifully, this is not just a tale of exploration; it is a riveting account of resilience, determination, and the human capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.

Favorite Roosevelt Quotes:

"I would rather run the rapids of the Amazon than any political campaign."

"The only man who makes no mistakes is the man who never does anything."

"I have a rendezvous with destiny."

"The man who is successful is the man who is useful."

"The best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing."