Man & Horse: The Long Ride Across America by John Egenes

Man & Horse: The Long Ride Across America is a remarkable memoir that chronicles John Egenes’ incredible 4,000-mile solo journey across the United States in 1974—on horseback. At a time when the country was grappling with post-Vietnam disillusionment and cultural upheaval, Egenes set out on an adventure that was as much about self-discovery as it was about traversing the vast American landscape. With only his horse, Gizmo, for company, Egenes rode from ocean to ocean-- Pacific to Atlantic-- encountering everything from harsh deserts and rugged mountains to small-town kindness and unexpected dangers. His writing is vivid and introspective, blending the physical challenges of the ride—extreme weather, logistical hurdles, and the sheer endurance required—with deeper reflections on solitude, freedom, and the vanishing frontier spirit. What makes Man & Horse stand out is its raw honesty. Egenes doesn’t romanticize the journey; instead, he shares the loneliness, doubt, and occasional despair that accompanied the triumphs. His bond with Gizmo is heartwarming, a testament to the unspoken understanding between human and animal. Along the way, he meets a cast of memorable characters who offer help, wisdom, or simply a listening ear, painting a portrait of an America that was both rugged and generous. Egenes’ prose is engaging, often lyrical, capturing the beauty of the land and the quiet moments of revelation that come with such an odyssey. The book is more than just a travelogue; it’s a meditation on perseverance, the American spirit, and what it means to truly connect with the world around you.

Adult • Anthologies