Passage to Juneau by Jonathan Raban
After many passages to Juneau, I am always in search of writers who can capture what I can’t put into words. Passage to Juneau: A Sea and Its Meanings by Jonathan Raban does that beautifully. Think Paul Theroux or Bruce Chatwin.
What makes Passage to Juneau stand out is the way Raban intertwines his physical voyage from Seattle to Juneau with rich explorations of the area’s history, indigenous cultures, and his own personal reflections. As he navigates the unpredictable waters, he also navigates the emotional turbulence of his life, particularly grappling with the illness and loss of his father.
He also weaves in fascinating historical context, discussing the experiences of early explorers like Captain Vancouver and the rich traditions of the Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Coast. Whether you’re drawn to the sea, interested in history, or looking for a book that touches on the deeper questions of life, Passage to Juneau offers all of that in a beautifully crafted narrative. Highly recommended!