57 pages • 1 hour read
The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt's Darkest Journey
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Book Brief
416
Biography • Nonfiction
Amazon Rainforest • 1910s
2005
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The River of Doubt by Candice Millard chronicles Theodore Roosevelt's perilous 1914 expedition to navigate an uncharted river in the Amazon rainforest, where he faced extreme physical and psychological challenges, dwindling supplies, and hostile natural conditions, ultimately mapping a 1,000-mile river. The account includes discussions of death by suicide.
Adventurous
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Challenging
Informative
Reviews & Readership
80,067 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
Candice Millard's The River of Doubt is widely praised for its captivating narrative and meticulous research into Theodore Roosevelt's perilous Amazon expedition. Reviewers laud Millard's vivid writing and historical depth, though some note the pacing can occasionally lag with dense detail. Overall, it's a compelling read for history and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Who Should Read The River of Doubt?
History enthusiasts fascinated by adventure and survival tales would enjoy Candice Millard’s The River of Doubt. Fans of Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage and The Lost City of Z will appreciate this gripping narrative of Theodore Roosevelt’s perilous Amazon expedition.
80,067 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Theodore Roosevelt
Theodore Roosevelt
The 26th President of the United States, known for his adventurous spirit and robust personality, who led a dangerous expedition down the River of Doubt in the Amazon after his presidential run.
Cândido Mariano da Silva Rondon
Cândido Mariano da Silva Rondon
A disciplined Brazilian military officer and guide with experience in the Amazon rainforest, who co-led the expedition with Roosevelt and was instrumental in its detailed surveying.
Kermit Roosevelt
Kermit Roosevelt
The son of Theodore Roosevelt, he joined the expedition in South America to oversee his father’s wellbeing and contributed with his hands-on efforts and strategic thinking.
George Cherrie
George Cherrie
A seasoned naturalist and ornithologist from the American Museum of Natural History, who collected specimens and documented the Amazonian environment during the expedition.
Julio de Lima
Julio de Lima
A Brazilian member of the expedition notorious for his violent tendencies and failure to comply with group responsibilities.
Paixão Paishon
Paixão Paishon
A well-regarded Black Brazilian leader among the camaradas, known for his strong work ethic and role in maintaining order and discipline during the expedition.
416
Biography • Nonfiction
Amazon Rainforest • 1910s
2005
Adult
18+ years
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