By Richard Stephens, Jr.
“Miles to Go: An African Family In Search of America along Route 66” by Brennen Matthews, University of New Mexico Press, 280 pp. Another road trip book? Yes, but wait – there is a big twist – the reader gets fresh perspectives on American culture in addition to learning about numerous attractions and meeting a variety of people along 2,448 miles of Route 66. Brennen and Kate Matthews and their eight-year-old son, Thembi, can’t help but compare and contrast recent life in Kenya (until 2015) against newfound middle and western America, providing insightful comments during their first-ever road trip in America in 2016. You’ll want to ride along.
For instance, during a stop at the Dixie Travel Plaza in McLean, Illinois, we learn, “In America…truckers are given a level of respect that is miles apart of their African counterparts. There are no country songs about African truckers, even though they are the backbone of many African economies.” The book is peppered with comparisons or observations about politics, religion, diversity of the land and towns, race, and other topics.
Starting in Wilmington, Illinois, and driving to Santa Monica, California, the Matthews tell us about a myriad of tourist attractions like vehicles buried nose down in the ground (VW Rabbits in Illinois and Cadillacs in Texas), a swimming Blue Whale (Oklahoma), and the world’s tallest thermometer (California). They share first-hand, often humorous descriptions of the many museums, hotels, restaurants, gift shops, and diverse landscapes they see. They also observe poor areas (eastern Missouri) and dilapidated ghost towns (Jericho, Texas; Two Guns, Arizona).
Interesting stories from people they meet along the way, from entrepreneurs, truckers, other tourists, and more keep the reader engaged.
The Matthews’ wonder of and appreciation for America and Americans shines through. In Illinois, Brennen wrote, “…we personally have always viewed America as a land of opportunity and, genuinely, a beacon of tolerance, where we all can find a place to fit in. Kate and I love America and its unique character.”
Brennen’s voice is primarily heard, but Kate and Thembi round out observations and conversations. Thembi provides a refreshing, eight-year-olds perspective (and keen knowledge of insects and geology). Theirs is a racially mixed family (white father, black mother, mixed race son) and they did not face discrimination, although Matthews admits, “…it was sobering to realize that the reception may have been quite different fifty years ago.”
Mr. Matthews and I met in July, 2022, in Oklahoma City during his book promotion tour. He shared the following: “…what I think is most interesting is that it’s filled with a history and a current collection of people that are both funny and unique and hilarious and amazing representatives of America.”
Miles to Go is enjoyable – an easy read for one’s trip on Route 66. Through one family’s voyage of discovery, readers understand why the route continues to be an experience for all.
The book is available on Amazon and other retailers.
