21 Days in the Southwest: A Woman's Solo Journey through the Sacred American Southwest

by Kaitlin Le

A Waltz Through Nature. A Journey Back to Herself.

A solo travel memoir of adventure, solitude and self-discovery across the American Southwest.

Over 21 days, a woman travels alone through New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, and California. She leaves without an itinerary, guided instead by instinct, grief, and a quiet longing for freedom. From the plazas of Santa Fe to the stillness of Monument Valley, from Capitol Reef to Death Valley and the Moonscape, each landscape becomes a witness and a companion.

Part memoir, part visual journal, this is not a traditional travel guide. The deserts, canyons, storms, and sacred landscapes are not destinations to be checked off a list. They become participants in the journey itself.

Inside, you will A 21-day solo journey across five states and ten national parksMemories of childhood in Vietnam, family, immigration and the choices that shaped her lifeReflections on solitude, fear, grief, freedom, and renewalSacred desert landscapes, hidden gems across the American SouthwestOriginal poetry and cinematic photography woven throughout the journeyPractice itinerary suggestions, lodging recommendations and travel tipsWhether you dream of exploring the Southwest or simple need the courage to begin a new chapter in you own life, 21 Days in the Southwest offers inspiration, reflection, and a reminder that sometimes the greatest journey is the one within. Five states. Twenty-one days. One unforgettable journey.

150 pages, Paperback

Published April 15, 2026

Reviews

[Sheilia Stodder]

Enjoyable travelogue!

Kaitlin did a wonderful job chronologically her travels. Interesting tips and very educational. I enjoyed reading her adventure!
You won’t be disappointed reading her book!!

[Feli]

As someone who loves nature and exploring national parks, there was a lot about 21 Days in the Southwest that appealed to me. Following Kaitlin’s solo trip through the Southwest was interesting but the personal side of her journey gave me more to think about. I appreciated the themes of grief, learning to trust yourself, and making room for your own needs. Her experiences show both the beauty and the challenges of traveling alone and I liked the combination of personal reflection and practical travel details.
A thoughtful read that encouraged me to slow down and appreciate the places around me.
Thank you to NetGalley, Kaitlin Le, and Desert Journal Press for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Lori]

The Photos Add So Much!

Kaitlin Le, the author presents us with a fast moving read about her journey into the Southwest as she spends time hiking, driving, dealing with food poisoning, visiting national parks and other points of interest and contemplating life. She took this journey suddenly and impulsively, telling her mom she was doing some brief travel with her boyfriend, called her boss to block her schedule as a nail technician -- and off she went. From her daily commentary and exquisite photography, it appears she has no regrets. I don't think the reader will either! This book made me want to just pack a bag and experience that for myself!

[Sue]

I picked up 21 Days in the Southwest expecting beautiful desert scenery, and I got that, but I also got the kind of honest travel mishaps that make a solo trip feel real. Lost backpacks, a broken car key in Death Valley, wild weather, long drives, and moments of pure freedom all find their place here. It made me want to pull out a map, pack water and snacks, and see the Southwest with fresh eyes.

[Abigail L.]

A solo journey across the American Southwest becomes a search for confidence, freedom, and a life lived more fully in 21 Days in the Southwest. With national parks, desert storms, unexpected setbacks, and practical travel guidance woven throughout, this memoir invites readers to follow the road less planned and discover what waits beyond the familiar.