Since childhood, I’ve been captivated by stories of nomadic individuals and those who lead unconventional lives, such as grifters, circus performers, and con artists. If a character revels in nonconformity and unstructured living, my interest is instantly piqued.
The fascination with offbeat lives is hardly unique. Consider the popularity of books like On the Road, Eat, Pray, Love, and Wild. These narratives inspire us to believe that even the most ordinary among us can step off the incessant treadmill of daily life and embark on an adventure into the great unknown. Much like Frodo leaving the Shire, we dream of shedding the burdens of 9-to-5 jobs, mortgages, and the daily grind, yearning for the freedom to roam and explore.
I penned most of You Can Trust Me during the pandemic, a time when the weight of those routine shackles felt particularly heavy. The character of Summer had been a longstanding idea, and I was eager to craft the perfect story to bring her to life. Thus, the book emerged, introducing Leo, a companion who shares Summer’s passion for the open road.
When I dive into a book, it often becomes clear that the author shares this yearning for adventure. The plot and character arcs suggest a kindred spirit whose stories resonate with themes of exploration, bohemian lifestyles, and an insatiable inner restlessness. Below is a roundup of some of my favorite literary works centered on adventurers, nomads, and rebels.
Anywhere You Run by Wanda Morris
This gripping historical thriller set in the 1960s follows two sisters forced to flee their hometown for reasons they cannot control. Violet embodies a spirit of freedom and rebellion, yet her options as a Black woman in Mississippi are severely limited. Accused of a crime against a white man, she finds herself on the run, battling her instincts and the challenges of the world. Meanwhile, her sister flees from the societal shame of an unplanned pregnancy. Together, they navigate danger and vulnerability, discovering the strength of their sisterhood amidst turmoil.
The Death of Mrs. Westaway by Ruth Ware
Hal, a destitute tarot reader, inadvertently becomes involved in a family drama when she’s mistakenly included in a stranger’s will. Facing homelessness and dangerous creditors, she opts to defraud the family to secure what’s rightfully not hers. As Hal navigates the family’s dark history, her intuitive skills in reading people are put to the test. However, venturing too deep into their lives may be beyond her means, as unseen forces begin to close in.
Pretty Things by Janelle Brown
Nina, the daughter of a con artist, finds herself pulled into a web of deception to fund her mother’s cancer treatments. Under her mother’s tutelage in the art of the con, Nina becomes embroiled in escalating schemes alongside the enigmatic Lachlan. The narrative thrums with tension and twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as betrayal looms in every corner.
Wonder Valley by Ivy Pochoda
Set against the gritty backdrop of Los Angeles, Wonder Valley begins with a man running naked down the freeway, inspiring a corporate worker to throw off his own constraints and chase him. The novel intertwines the lives of various quirky characters, offering a poetic exploration of loneliness and human connection. Through stories ranging from Skid Row to the desert, the novel captures the essence of adventure amidst chaos.
Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt
This middle-grade classic introduces us to Dicey, a thirteen-year-old who becomes the reluctant leader of her siblings after their mother abandons them. Tasked with navigating the uncertain path to their aunt’s house, Dicey’s resolve and resourcefulness shine through as they face dangers along the way. This tale of perseverance and familial bonds remains a treasured narrative that showcases the challenges and triumphs of young nomads.
A Beautiful Crime by Christopher Bollen
This compelling crime novel delves into the lives of lovers Nick and Clay who team up in Venice to con a millionaire with counterfeit antiques. Engaging with themes of morality and deception, A Beautiful Crime transports readers into a mesmerizing world of heists while sparking intrigue about identity and the nature of home. Bollen’s vivid imagery paints an atmospheric picture that invites readers to ponder deeper questions.
Through these stories, we see the allure of unconventional living and the journeys of strong, vivacious characters who seek freedom and authenticity. Each narrative is a testament to the human desire for exploration, connection, and belonging.
The Allure of Nomadic Narratives in Literature
From the earliest stages of our lives, stories that capture the essence of nonconformity and adventure have a way of enthralling readers. Literature filled with nomadic characters, grifters, and free spirits resonates with a collective desire to break free from societal constraints. Whether it’s the allure of escaping daily routines or the thrill of embarking on uncharted paths, these stories offer a window into vibrant, unstructured lives.
Why We Crave Adventure
Books like On the Road, Eat, Pray, Love, and Wild have garnered immense popularity, demonstrating our fascination with the idea of abandoning the mundane for a life full of adventure. These narratives encourage us to envision ourselves as modern-day explorers, momentarily liberated from the constraints of our daily responsibilities and societal expectations. The desire to experience the unknown reflects an instinct deeply ingrained in humanity, beckoning us to venture beyond our comfort zones.
Creating Impactful Characters
Writers frequently channel their own sense of adventure into their characters, crafting compelling stories that resonate with readers. Characters who embody restlessness and a longing for freedom draw us into their journeys. When we connect with their struggles, we explore not only their adventures but also our own innermost desires for exploration and self-discovery.
Compelling Works Featuring Nomadic Characters
Numerous novels delve into the lives of adventurers, bohemians, and modern rebels. Consider Anywhere You Run by Wanda Morris, a gripping historical thriller that follows two sisters evading personal crises. Set against the backdrop of 1960s Mississippi, the story highlights themes of freedom, rebellion, and the complexities of familial bonds.
Another remarkable example is The Death of Mrs. Westaway by Ruth Ware, where a young woman ventures into a complex inheritance scheme while navigating her own uncertainties. This blend of suspense and character development showcases how life as an outsider can lead to unexpected depth and intrigue.
Exploring Complex Relationships
In Pretty Things by Janelle Brown, the daughter of a con artist grapples with her identity while launching her own schemes. The themes of betrayal and loyalty elevate the narrative, revealing the intricate entanglements of family and morality. Such stories emphasize the complexity of relationships in a world where survival often necessitates stepping outside the law.
Urban Adventures and Shared Humanity
Ivy Pochoda’s Wonder Valley authentically portrays unconventional lifestyles within the urban landscape of Los Angeles. Through the eyes of various characters, we witness a rich tapestry of humanity, reflecting the spectrum of experiences that define the city. The novel dives deep into issues of homelessness and connection, making it both an exploration of place and an introspective journey.
Timeless Themes of Resilience and Hope
Children’s literature also embraces nomadic characters, as exemplified by Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt. This coming-of-age story illustrates the resilience of siblings navigating abandonment and adversity. As they embark on a physically and emotionally taxing journey, the novel encapsulates themes of survival and familial bonds, resonating with readers of all ages.
The Artistic Exploration of Morality
Finally, A Beautiful Crime by Christopher Bollen intertwines romance with crime, showcasing two lovers as they plot an elaborate scam in Venice. This vivid tale encourages readers to ponder questions of morality, belonging, and what it truly means to call a place home. Through atmospheric storytelling, it invites us to grapple with the gray areas of human experience.
In essence, literature that explores nomadic lifestyles and adventurous spirits serves as a vehicle for self-reflection and exploration. These stories resonate deeply, inviting readers to embrace their own quests for truth, freedom, and connection in a world that often feels confining.
