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Not On Any Map: One Virgin Island, Two Catastrophic Hurricanes, and the True Meaning of Paradise
What if you discovered paradise... and then it was all blown away?
When Philadelphia journalist Margie Smith Holt first saw the stunning Caribbean blue of St. John’s water, all she wanted was sunshine and a break from deadlines. What she got was a waitressing gig at a burger shack called Skinny Legs, sailing lessons from the characters who hung out there, and a newspaper editor who tricked her into writing it all down. Next thing she knew, she was on a tiny boat, sailing across the Atlantic. She thought she had discovered paradise on this little island that changed her life. Then back-to-back Category 5 hurricanes blew it all away.
For anyone who has ever dreamed of running away to "paradise," this memoir answers the question: What happens next? Holt’s reporting on the aftermath of the monster storms is an inspiring story of one community’s struggle to survive and rebuild, all without ever losing its sense of humor. Part love letter, part elegy, Not On Any Map illuminates the fragility of the Earth’s most beautiful places and calls into question the very meaning of paradise in a time of climate crisis.
When Philadelphia journalist Margie Smith Holt first saw the stunning Caribbean blue of St. John’s water, all she wanted was sunshine and a break from deadlines. What she got was a waitressing gig at a burger shack called Skinny Legs, sailing lessons from the characters who hung out there, and a newspaper editor who tricked her into writing it all down. Next thing she knew, she was on a tiny boat, sailing across the Atlantic. She thought she had discovered paradise on this little island that changed her life. Then back-to-back Category 5 hurricanes blew it all away.
For anyone who has ever dreamed of running away to "paradise," this memoir answers the question: What happens next? Holt’s reporting on the aftermath of the monster storms is an inspiring story of one community’s struggle to survive and rebuild, all without ever losing its sense of humor. Part love letter, part elegy, Not On Any Map illuminates the fragility of the Earth’s most beautiful places and calls into question the very meaning of paradise in a time of climate crisis.
- GenresTravelNonfictionMemoir
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2023
77 people are currently reading
1016 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
February 7, 2023
Great read for St John fans, better for those who have lived there. I did not expect to learn so much about sailing. But the heart of the book was about the hurricanes. It’s amazing how quickly we forget…
February 17, 2024
This book was a struggle to finish and at 99% complete, I could easily sets it down and go to sleep. The first third are a great travel guide for St John, the 2nd third is a sailing trip with a character where you don’t feel bonded, and the last 3rd gives insight into the struggles St. John had from two back to back hurricanes. This book is perfect for someone sitting on a beach in St John. Otherwise I would have enjoyed a story following the hurricane victims and the rebuilding efforts.
September 23, 2024
Many dream of chucking their connected, busy, and demanding lives for something simple and/or to live in a paradise by the sea. In this well written memoir, Smith describes how she did just that -- for a time at least. Yet her memoir is a cautionary tale because in the years that followed her departure from Coral Bay, St. John, the island was decimated by Hurricane Irma and, as of the time of her writing, was sputtering back to life.
March 29, 2023
I am struggling with what to write about this book without sounding like I’m just gushing all over it because I absolutely loved it. Margie Smith Holt pulls you in from the very beginning and I found myself saying, on numerous occasions, how cool is her life?!
This book left me feeling like wanting to pick up and move to St John at 40 (ok 41) is not totally crazy and even doable! It breathed life into my fantasy and, even though we’ve never met, made me feel as though Margie just “gets me.”
As someone who deeply loves St. John and it’s people, I also appreciated that Margie did not gloss over some of the more difficult discussions and, in fact, likely brought awareness to them that some folks who visit the island would not have otherwise known. In addition, she paints such a real and vivid picture of the stories from some of the hurricane Irmaria survivors that I found myself crying with them (I see you, Jenn).
Even if you have never had the opportunity to visit St John, read this book! And thank you, Margie, for writing your memoir and allowing us all a glimpse into your life, and the lives of your Coral Bay friends.
#Lovecitystrong
This book left me feeling like wanting to pick up and move to St John at 40 (ok 41) is not totally crazy and even doable! It breathed life into my fantasy and, even though we’ve never met, made me feel as though Margie just “gets me.”
As someone who deeply loves St. John and it’s people, I also appreciated that Margie did not gloss over some of the more difficult discussions and, in fact, likely brought awareness to them that some folks who visit the island would not have otherwise known. In addition, she paints such a real and vivid picture of the stories from some of the hurricane Irmaria survivors that I found myself crying with them (I see you, Jenn).
Even if you have never had the opportunity to visit St John, read this book! And thank you, Margie, for writing your memoir and allowing us all a glimpse into your life, and the lives of your Coral Bay friends.
#Lovecitystrong
May 14, 2025
Perfect way to prepare for our upcoming return to the USVI.
April 30, 2025
Having visited St John nearly annually over the past 20 years, I have often wondered what it would have been like to simply move here and start a life, hiking and sailing around this perfect place. I met locals over the years and learned a bit about their lives but always wanted to know more. This book provides a great honest insight into that life, from someone who left a career in TV journalism to move here and learned to sail along the way. Highly recommend if you love St John, and there is also a riveting tale of crossing the Atlantic in a 30’ sailboat which is hard to put down.
February 22, 2024
After my first visit to St. John last year, I am fascinated by the place, the history, and the sad effects of climate change seen. The reefs are still beautiful, but I'm told a shadow of what they used to be 20 years ago. After reading this book, I'm also fascinated by the people.
We stayed at the Concordia eco resort on the east side of the island and had to drive to or through Coral Bay to get to ANYTHING. Concordia was wonderful, but still visibly recovering from the hurricanes and the 1-2 punch of Covid shutdowns. This book resonated all the more because I can viscerally understand the roads, the gorgeous scenery juxtaposed with eclectic businesses some still struggling to recover and thrive.
My return trip is next month, and I'll be playing closer attention to some of the iconic places and the locals, both longstanding and the new faces.
I'm looking for other reading material about St. John, interested in the history of indigenous people, slave plantations, slave revolt, as well as plant and fauna resources.
We stayed at the Concordia eco resort on the east side of the island and had to drive to or through Coral Bay to get to ANYTHING. Concordia was wonderful, but still visibly recovering from the hurricanes and the 1-2 punch of Covid shutdowns. This book resonated all the more because I can viscerally understand the roads, the gorgeous scenery juxtaposed with eclectic businesses some still struggling to recover and thrive.
My return trip is next month, and I'll be playing closer attention to some of the iconic places and the locals, both longstanding and the new faces.
I'm looking for other reading material about St. John, interested in the history of indigenous people, slave plantations, slave revolt, as well as plant and fauna resources.
May 6, 2023
I'm lucky to have stumbled upon a magical place that somehow gets under your skin, and calls you back again and again. St. John, USVI is the place, if I were brave enough, I'd love to call home.
Margie's book recalls her love affair with the island, and her leap of faith to leave her home and job in Philadelphia to go "off the grid." Applying for a waitressing job she had no experience for, and introducing us to a cast of characters as colorful as any 'Cheers' patron. Margie becomes an avid boater and fearlessly crews some amazing adventures across the ocean.
Unfortunately, living in Paradise comes with some hard realities. Back to back hurricanes brought the island to its knees, and so many lost their homes. Margie tells many of their stories and struggles to continue to live on Island.
A must-read for St. John lovers and adventure seekers as well!
Margie's book recalls her love affair with the island, and her leap of faith to leave her home and job in Philadelphia to go "off the grid." Applying for a waitressing job she had no experience for, and introducing us to a cast of characters as colorful as any 'Cheers' patron. Margie becomes an avid boater and fearlessly crews some amazing adventures across the ocean.
Unfortunately, living in Paradise comes with some hard realities. Back to back hurricanes brought the island to its knees, and so many lost their homes. Margie tells many of their stories and struggles to continue to live on Island.
A must-read for St. John lovers and adventure seekers as well!
June 21, 2023
This book is FANTASTIC! There is something very special about St. John. It gets into your heart and soul from the moment you step off the ferry and see the statue. Margie captured that love in this book. I felt like she was living the life I would have chosen if I had the option (and the bravery). I was so captivated by her writing that it seemed to me that I was right there with her on each of her adventures. I love that Rock and I have not been there since “Irmaria.” I truly enjoyed reading inside info about all the places I had been to on previous trips. The Coral Bay side of the island is my favorite place, so to really understand the tragedy that befell that heavenly place truly broke my heart. I look forward to returning and trying to locate all the important people to Margie that are still in Love City. BUY THIS BOOK—ENJOY HER JOURNEY—TELL YOUR FRIENDS!
February 15, 2024
An exceptional book! We have been to St. John many times, starting from 1970. I wish we had had that book then. We would have gotten to know even more from our travels there--the people, the island itself, and Skinny Legs! In 1970 it was a quiet little island with friendly and helpful people. Over the years much has changed which Margie Smith Holt had captured so well.
When the two devastating hurricanes came ashore on St. John we were back home in New Jersey, glued to TV and any online information we could get. It was unbelievable even to get into one's mind that it had happened! Still, until I read Margie Smith Holt's book that I fully comprehended the devastation to people, land, and future. Also, it was good to know how many (all?) people were out there to help.
Again, a great book, a required reading to those who want to know St. John and its people.
When the two devastating hurricanes came ashore on St. John we were back home in New Jersey, glued to TV and any online information we could get. It was unbelievable even to get into one's mind that it had happened! Still, until I read Margie Smith Holt's book that I fully comprehended the devastation to people, land, and future. Also, it was good to know how many (all?) people were out there to help.
Again, a great book, a required reading to those who want to know St. John and its people.
February 26, 2023
READ THIS BOOK! A glorious debut novel/memoir that tells a terrific story of the author taking life head on and plunging the into the unknown to discover its true meaning. Surrounded by characters who create paradise on their own terms in the off-the- beaten trail side of St John , the writer illuminates all that really counts: strong relationships ( especially with women) and people always at the ready for common cause. The reader is also reminded of how two devastating hurricanes destroy not only an island but a way of life. It is a clarion call to heed the existential threat of climate change and the people forgotten in its wake. .A poignant, harrowing , insightful, sometimes hilarious and beautifully written book with eye popping “scenery” to boot!
February 18, 2025
“What is paradise, anyway? Is it a place? An X on the map? Latitude or longitude? Or is it internal? A state of mind. Something that lives in your head, or your heart. Is it a moment in time? Does it follow you, travel with you? Can it be recreated?” — Margie Smith Holt
Margie Smith Holt, an accomplished Philadelphia journalist, did what many dream about on a cold winter day — went to live in paradise. She had no waitressing or sailing experience, but quickly learned what she needed to know.
Her memoir of surviving and thriving on St. John, or in a 30-foot sailboat crossing the Atlantic Ocean, is inspiring. She also covers the aftermath of 2017’s devastating Hurricane Irma, when paradise was nearly destroyed.
Margie Smith Holt, an accomplished Philadelphia journalist, did what many dream about on a cold winter day — went to live in paradise. She had no waitressing or sailing experience, but quickly learned what she needed to know.
Her memoir of surviving and thriving on St. John, or in a 30-foot sailboat crossing the Atlantic Ocean, is inspiring. She also covers the aftermath of 2017’s devastating Hurricane Irma, when paradise was nearly destroyed.
February 6, 2023
You've got to BUY THIS BOOK! I loved it. It's engaging, wonderfully written, funny, insightful, warm, exciting. So many stories. I did one of those things where I was getting close to the end and slowed down so it wouldn't be over so soon. I was so engaged in the stories, and (mostly) the wonderful characters, that I spent too many nights awake reading just. one. more. chapter. This is the Perfect Storm meets Eat, Pray, Love, while having a deep relationship with Bossypants. Now I want to go to Saint John and eat a burger.
September 17, 2023
The exact book I’ve always wanted read in between visits to this small but mighty island that continuously beacons one’s soul more and more each time one visits. I’m so grateful to hear the stories of those who call this place home. Since my fist visit I have always respected, emphasized and appreciated how hard island life can be for St. John’s it was just incredible to read about what it was like there after back to back cat. 5 hurricanes. The stories of Margie’s adventures were so inspiring! The people of St. John are a strong and special bunch to say the least.
May 16, 2023
An outstanding book. I loved it from the beginning to the end. I absolutely adore Coral Bay and the people. I was lucky enough to read this book while in Coral Bay which gave it a even more real feel. We are long time visitors and had the pleasure of sharing a painkiller or two with some of these beautiful people mentioned in the book. Thank you for writing an inspiring book and giving a voice to the people of Coral Bay.
October 27, 2023
I thought this book was so incredibly special. St John is a very special place on this earth, and I read this book while spending time there in Coral Bay. The book does a great job not only describing life on the island but the people, culture and ways of life. Beyond that, Margie's personal story is captivating, and I found her questions about what is paradise to be very thought provoking. This is one of the best books I've read in a long time.
January 29, 2024
Paradise revisited
I’ve traveled to STJ numerous times and reading this book stirred up so many great memories. Even 7 years later the recovery process goes on, albeit according to Island Time. We rent the same little “villa”, almost every year, just up the hill from Cruz Bay, but so many of our favorites are/were in Coral Bay. A great read and awesome description of the resilience and strength of those who call St John home!
I’ve traveled to STJ numerous times and reading this book stirred up so many great memories. Even 7 years later the recovery process goes on, albeit according to Island Time. We rent the same little “villa”, almost every year, just up the hill from Cruz Bay, but so many of our favorites are/were in Coral Bay. A great read and awesome description of the resilience and strength of those who call St John home!
July 19, 2025
A love song to love city. I have had the fortune of visiting St John and the BVI several times, before and after irmaria and Margie captures the spirit of the island.
October 6, 2023
This book was beautifully written. I read No on Any Map after returning home from my first trip to St John. I totally related to the author’s description of the hazardous roads and beauty of the beaches. Looking for to Margie Smith Holt’s next book. And the last section of the book describing the aftermath of the hurricanes was truly eye opening.
January 24, 2024
Great book - I couldn’t put it down.
We used to live in Coral Bay and were beside ourselves with worry for our friends during those dreadful times after Irma and Maria. If you want a clear view of what life is like there in this unique part of the world, you can’t find a better source than this book.
We used to live in Coral Bay and were beside ourselves with worry for our friends during those dreadful times after Irma and Maria. If you want a clear view of what life is like there in this unique part of the world, you can’t find a better source than this book.
January 21, 2025
An Island to Behold
My husband and I spent our anniversary on St John last May. Reading about so many places we spent time at, brought back wonderful memories. Learning about the people that live there, opens up new visions. Of all the places we have visited, we both agree it is our favorite and can’t wait to go back. You described Skinny Legs perfectly!
My husband and I spent our anniversary on St John last May. Reading about so many places we spent time at, brought back wonderful memories. Learning about the people that live there, opens up new visions. Of all the places we have visited, we both agree it is our favorite and can’t wait to go back. You described Skinny Legs perfectly!
April 1, 2023
5 Star review!! My life goal is to buy a sailboat and live on it in the Caribbean for 6 months out of the year. This is making me want to push up my dates and jump right in. The fact that they chased their dreams and persevered through difficult times is inspiring. A must read.
May 31, 2023
Not On Any Map was so fascinating I had to constantly remind myself it wasn’t fiction! This adventurous and beautiful story is one of hope, community, and resiliency. A big thank you to author Margie Smith Holt for sharing her story, and for the Kindle giveaway copy!
August 26, 2023
What is paradise and how do you find it? Margie Smith-Holt has written a love letter to the people of Coral Bay. It was such a treat reading about people that I know and love. And then her journey continues across the Atlantic and then back to St John. This was just a magical book.
September 2, 2023
Real life in paradise
Excellent book on the realities of living life in the USVI and beyond…You get a sense of the beauty, the people and an understanding of why life in paradise certainly isn’t perfect.
Excellent book on the realities of living life in the USVI and beyond…You get a sense of the beauty, the people and an understanding of why life in paradise certainly isn’t perfect.
December 19, 2023
The true magic of this book was in the authors own story of finding herself. The characters, places, journeys, and adventures are captivating. Holt captured the spirit and the people of St John in it's truest form. I highly recommend this book to everyone! You'll love the journey!
May 22, 2024
As a new visitor and lover of St John and Coral Bay, I found this book to be an eye opening account of the aftermath of the 2017 hurricane season. I also enjoyed the author’s account of learning how to sail and am awed by her bravery!
July 24, 2024
I have loved St John and have visited since 2006. The beauty, raw emotions, and storytelling that Margie shares in this story, only heightened my loyalty and intrigue with Love City. I came away with more of a renewed sense of appreciation for Coral Bay and its people too. Fantastic book!
July 27, 2024
This was a fun read because it’s about my favorite place on earth - St. John, USVI. I loooooved the parts about the island. The hurricane chapters were heartbreaking. Recommend reading it while on STJ. Great beach read.
March 8, 2023
Margie Smith Holt took me on a wonderful journey, made me laugh out loud while keeping me up at night enjoying every moment. Not On Any Map is a good read. Don't miss it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews