As a kid, I grew up aspiring to be a Hardy Boy, then it was Indiana Jones, and later, I wanted nothing more than to be a Goonie.

What I loved about those characters, the books, and the films was the adventure—the thought of venturing into the unknown, solving mysteries, setting “booty traps,” and finding ancient artifacts, treasures, or a hidden city.

Unlike most childhood passions, this yearning for travel, adventure, and solving mysteries has never faded. Regrettably, I haven’t done enough with it as I probably should have been an archaeologist. Yes, I realize it’s nothing like what you see in Indiana Jones movies, but it’s a path I wish I had pursued more. But I digress.

For those of you like me, who are big kids at heart and love adventure, I have compiled 15 books that every Goonie or wannabe Indiana Jones should read. Let me know what you think in the comments below!

“The Lost City of Z” by David Grann

This non-fiction book chronicles the true story of British explorer Percy Fawcett’s quest to find a lost civilization in the Amazon. Grann’s captivating storytelling brings Fawcett’s adventures and the perils of the jungle to life, making it a compelling read for modern-day explorers. The meticulous research and vivid descriptions immerse you in the dangerous and mysterious world of the Amazon rainforest, highlighting the relentless human spirit and the desire to uncover the unknown.

“Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage” by Alfred Lansing

This gripping account of Ernest Shackleton’s 1914 Antarctic expedition is a testament to human resilience and leadership. Lansing’s meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring the harrowing journey to life, making it an essential read for adventure enthusiasts. The sheer determination of Shackleton and his crew in the face of insurmountable odds serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the will to survive against all odds.

“Treasure Island” by Robert Louis Stevenson

A timeless classic, this tale of piracy, treasure maps, and high seas adventure is a must-read for anyone with a thirst for adventure. Follow Jim Hawkins as he embarks on a thrilling journey to uncover buried treasure, encountering the enigmatic Long John Silver along the way. Stevenson’s masterful storytelling and unforgettable characters create an enduring adventure that continues to captivate readers of all ages.

The Hardy Boys Series by Franklin W. Dixon

The series revolves around teenage sleuths Frank and Joe Hardy, who solve cases that adults can’t seem to crack. Created in 1926 by Edward Stratemeyer and his Stratemeyer Syndicate, the series employed ghostwriters to craft the stories from provided outlines. Starting in 1959, the first 38 stories were revised and abridged, much to the dismay of long-time fans. The books were shortened, updated to remove dated prose and racial stereotypes, and given a more uniform length to reduce publishing costs. Recently, I revisited these stories and still found them incredibly engaging. If you haven’t read any, do yourself a favor and dive into at least one. The series’ blend of mystery, adventure, and youthful ingenuity makes it a timeless favorite.

“Temple” by Matthew Reilly

This fast-paced thriller follows Professor William Race as he races against time and enemies to uncover the secrets of an ancient Incan temple. Reilly’s action-packed narrative and intricate plot twists make this a thrilling read for adventure lovers. The book’s relentless pace and high-stakes scenarios will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for those who crave adrenaline-fueled adventures.

“King Solomon’s Mines” by H. Rider Haggard and A. C. Michael

This classic adventure novel follows Allan Quatermain and his companions as they embark on a perilous journey to find the legendary mines of King Solomon. Haggard’s vivid descriptions and gripping storytelling have made this a timeless favorite among adventurers. The novel’s rich depiction of African landscapes and its thrilling quest narrative capture the essence of exploration and the allure of uncovering hidden treasures.

“The Call of the Wild” by Jack London

Set during the Klondike Gold Rush, this novel follows Buck, a domesticated dog who is thrust into the wild and must adapt to survive. London’s evocative prose and deep connection with nature make this a powerful exploration of primal instincts and adventure. The transformation of Buck from a pampered pet to a leader in the wild highlights the themes of survival, loyalty, and the call of the wilderness.

“Into Thin Air” by Jon Krakauer

Krakauer’s harrowing account of the 1996 Mount Everest disaster is a gripping and heart-wrenching read. His detailed narrative captures the extreme challenges of high-altitude climbing and the tragic events that unfolded during the expedition. The book provides a sobering look at the risks and rewards of mountaineering and the human cost of pursuing dreams at the highest peaks on Earth.

“A Cook’s Tour” by Anthony Bourdain

Bourdain’s memoir of his global culinary adventures is as much about the people and places he encounters as it is about the food. His irreverent humor and insightful commentary make this a delightful read for anyone who loves travel and food. The book is a journey through diverse cultures and cuisines, offering a unique perspective on the world through the lens of a passionate chef and adventurer.

“All the Pretty Horses” by Cormac McCarthy

The first book in McCarthy’s Border Trilogy, this novel follows John Grady Cole as he leaves Texas and journeys into Mexico. McCarthy’s lyrical prose and deep exploration of the landscape and culture make this a captivating and moving adventure. The series continues with “The Crossing” and “Cities of the Plain,” each offering a profound exploration of the human spirit, the borderlands, and the timeless quest for meaning and belonging.

“Into Africa” by Martin Dugard

This historical narrative recounts the dramatic search for Dr. David Livingstone by journalist Henry Morton Stanley. Dugard’s meticulous research and engaging writing bring this epic tale of exploration and discovery to life. The book offers a fascinating look at the challenges and triumphs of 19th-century exploration and the African continent’s enduring mystery and allure.

“The Lost City of the Monkey God” by Douglas Preston

Preston’s thrilling account of the discovery of a lost city in the Honduran jungle combines adventure, archaeology, and modern science. His firsthand experience and gripping narrative make this a must-read for adventure enthusiasts. The book delves into the history and legends of the lost city, the cutting-edge technology used to uncover it, and the perils faced by the expedition team.

“Jungleland” by Christopher S. Stewart

This true story follows Stewart as he retraces the steps of explorer Theodore Morde, who claimed to have found a lost city in the Honduran rainforest. Stewart’s journey is filled with danger, intrigue, and the quest for historical truth. The book is a captivating blend of historical research, personal adventure, and the enduring mystery of lost civilizations.

“Green Hills of Africa” by Ernest Hemingway

In this memoir, Hemingway recounts his month-long safari in East Africa, blending vivid descriptions of the landscape and wildlife with his reflections on the nature of hunting and adventure. His writing captures the spirit of exploration and the allure of the wild. The book is a deeply personal and philosophical exploration of the relationship between humans and nature, as well as a celebration of the African wilderness.

“In Patagonia” by Bruce Chatwin

Chatwin’s travelogue explores the remote and rugged region of Patagonia through a series of vignettes and encounters. His lyrical prose and keen observations create a vivid portrait of a land that has long been a magnet for adventurers and dreamers. The book is a rich tapestry of history, mythology, and personal reflection, offering a unique and compelling look at one of the world’s most enigmatic regions.

What Do You Think?

For me, these 15 books are perfect for anyone with a sense of adventure and a love for exploration. Whether you’re trekking through the jungle, sailing the high seas, or journeying through the Southern wilds, these tales will ignite your imagination and inspire your own adventures. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below and if you recommend any other must-read adventure books!