Travels with a Donkey in the Cevennes

Long before Treasure Island made him famous, Stevenson set out on foot across the wild hills of southern France with only a stubborn donkey named Modestine for company. Over twelve days he sleeps under the stars, quarrels with his beast, reflects on faith and solitude, and lodges at a Trappist monastery, turning a modest walking trip into one of the first real works of outdoor literature. The tone is warm, funny, and quietly thoughtful, and beneath the adventure runs a young writer’s search for meaning and freedom. It has stayed a favorite of hikers and armchair travelers alike for well over a century. Free to download as a PDF or EPUB.