From Afar: One man's human-powered adventure from the lowest point on the African continent to the summit of its highest mountain

by Kyle Henning

Kyle Henning left the shores of Lake Assal, Djibouti in January 2011, destined for the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. For sixty-eight days, he traveled by bicycle and on foot to connect the lowest point on the African continent to the summit of its highest mountain, following the Great Rift Valley from the Afar Depression through the Horn of Africa. Traveling alone after finishing his Peace Corps service, he faced the physical demands of cycling through four countries, growing uncertainty as the Arab Spring gripped the continent, and the effects of his own post-traumatic stress.

332 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 21, 2021

Reviews

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible memoir highlighting internal and external strength. Kyle’s writing style is engaging, honest, and from the beginning, I found myself enthralled by the intertwinement of excitement, doubt, danger, and grit. Henning’s book is an inspirational read!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! From New Orleans to Djibouti, Kilimanjaro to Buffalo, I was constantly rooting for the author. Unlike many of the roads the author survived, the book is a smooth, fast-paced read that takes you from the lows and highs of not just Africa, but also of the greatest joys and deepest despairs of someone undertaking such an all-encompassing journey. I was moved by the honesty and humility imbued throughout the story, and there were several scenes that will stick with me for a long time (the certain hotel stay in Moyale, for one!). The book also gave me new insight into Africa and the Peace Corps experience. A favorite aspect: following along with the author's video playlist after reading each chapter. Overall a highly recommended read!

[Anne S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting book about one man's journey on a bicycle in Africa. He told about his challenges and challenges on the ride. I learned a lot about parts of Africa and the everyday challenges for people who live there. The author is an interesting writer and I also admire his honesty. I couldn't help wondering why he would take on this self imposed challenged that had some real risks.

[janvier rugira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Human courage

This is an incredible memoir. There Is a lot of invaluable life lessons you will learn by reading the book. From the so called limits, becoming own detractor, to freeing oneself.

Kyle is the synonym of courage + determination.

[Scott A · Rating 5 out of 5]

With such vivid description I felt like I was riding tandem, making every mistake along with him and commiserating over a nondescript plate of rice and meat! What a ride!

[Mclean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! I felt like I was riding along with Kyle the whole time and sharing in his struggles, both physical and emotional.

[Chase · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is fantastic! Very exciting read. Make sure to check out the videos on YouTube that go with each chapter.