Around the World in 50 Years

My Adventure to Every Country on Earth

By: Albert Podell

Narrated by: Tom Perkins

This is the inspiring story of an ordinary guy who achieved two great goals that others had told him were impossible. First, he set a record for the longest automobile journey ever made around the world, during the course of which he blasted his way out of minefields, survived a breakdown atop the Peak of Death, came within seconds of being lynched in Pakistan, and lost three of the five men who started with him - two to disease, one to the Vietcong.

After that - although it took him 47 more years - Albert Podell set another record by going to every country on Earth. He achieved this by surviving riots, civil wars, trigger-happy child soldiers, voodoo priests, robbers, corrupt cops, and Cape buffalo. He went around, under, or through every kind of natural disaster. He ate everything from old camel meat and rats to dung beetles and the brain of a live monkey. And he overcame attacks by crocodiles, hippos, anacondas, giant leeches, flying crabs - and several beautiful girlfriends who insisted that he stop this nonsense and marry them.

©2015 Albert Podell (P)2015 Tantor

Critic reviews

"[T]here is never a dull moment." ( Kirkus)

10/10

This was my first ever audio book ion really read so I can’t compare to other books but i really enjoyed the real stories of Albert podell and his travels throughout the world and I appreciate him sharing his valuable stories through his book. His history of the counties provided valuable information for a future traveler like myself and he inspired me to travel maybe not to every country but moved me nonetheless. I give this a 10/10 thanks Albert podell.

Fantastic Adventure

The thing I loved most about this book was Podell’s persistence. In a time when it’s become fashionable with the younger travel crowd to Instagram and rush through countries, Podell’s journey was not a competition, it was simply a goal, and it took 50 years and his own money to do. I really admire that. It was very well written and though it takes awhile to get used to his dry and wry sense of humor, it does grow on you. He seems like really cool guy to hang with, especially if you watch any of his interviews or see his travel photos. His panicky, hilarious chapter through Kiribati, which I’ve visited, was probably my favorite, a trip down memory lane! His book became more of a guide for me, igniting wanderlust and making me think that maybe it’s possible within my lifetime to reach every country, too. I wish he would write a Part II! A highly recommended read.

Great book

Enjoyed both the stories and how it was written. I hope there is a part 2 with some adventures that were left out.

Incredible stories, great narration, a page turner

Big Al's stories move in with history, factoids, and thought-provoking anecdotes makes for a wonderful read and a wild ride around the world and beyond!

Great book

I highly recommend for any traveler. I just wish he wrote about more of his adventures