Chasing the bucket list on wheels

by ritesh Mozumdar

This is the story of a small-town dreamer from India with an overactive imagination and a firm belief that the world is meant to be seen, touched, tasted, and sometimes, gotten lost in. While others collected report cards and responsibilities, he collected daydreams of stargazing in deserts, hiking through canyons, and chasing sunsets across continents.

Over time, he built a bucket list so ambitious that most people smiled and said, “Nice idea, maybe someday.” You know, the kind of dreams that usually get buried under bills and unread emails.

But some dreams don’t fade. They wait, they whisper, and when the time is right, they roar.

This book is about one such roar, and the many failed attempts before it—a wild idea to drive across the United States from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Not in luxury or on a rigid plan, but with a car full of friends, a mismatched playlist, and just enough preparation to get into trouble and somehow get out of it.

The protagonist, his wife Barnali, and their partners-in-chaos Raj, Rudra, and Sonya set off from Providence to Los Angeles, crossing skylines, plains, deserts, and countless coffee stops. There were awe-struck silences at the Grand Canyon, lung-burning hikes in Zion, quiet nights in Colorado, and wild laughter in Vegas, including a selfie with a police officer who probably didn’t see it coming.

This isn’t a travel guide. It’s a human one—funny, honest, and full of friendship, spontaneity, and those unforgettable miles that change you without trying.

An East-to-West odyssey. A once-in-a-lifetime ride. A reminder that sometimes you just have to stop planning and drive.

227 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 21, 2025

Reviews

[Rakesh Reads]

A refreshing and engaging read that beautifully captures the spirit of exploration and self-discovery through a traveler’s road trip across the United States. The author’s narrative is simple yet vivid, making you feel as if you’re right there on the highways of America. What stood out most was the unique perspective—experiencing the U.S. not just as a tourist, but as someone carrying Indian roots and sensibilities, noticing details that others might overlook. The book blends travel anecdotes with cultural observations, humor, and moments of introspection, making it more than just a travelogue—it’s also a personal journey. A must-read for travel enthusiasts, humourists and anyone curious about how different worlds meet on the open road.

[Chandrakana]

"A Journey That Warms the Heart and Sparks the Spirit"
Chasing the Bucket List on Wheels is a truly charming and uplifting read. Ritesh Mojumdar shares his journey with such honesty and warmth that you can’t help but feel inspired.
Author takes readers on an unforgettable ride — not just across places, but across emotions, perspectives, and life lessons.
The storytelling feels refreshingly real, filled with moments that make you smile, pause, and reflect. What stands out most is the author’s ability to blend adventure with meaning — reminding us that chasing our dreams isn’t about distance, but about the willingness to move forward.
I’m incredibly proud of the author for creating a book that motivates, uplifts, and stays with you long after the final page. A wonderful read for anyone who’s ever had a dream waiting quietly on their bucket list.

[Ankit Naskar]

Very nice book and is based on a real life scene.

[Rishi]

My dad, Ritesh Mozumdar, wrote Chasing the Bucket List on Wheels. It’s about following your dreams, seeing the world, and not being afraid to get lost sometimes. I think it’s amazing that my dad really did the things he wrote about. His stories make me want to travel and see new places too. I’m really proud of him.


You and the book are the best