It's the story of Rory Stewart's solo walk across Afghanistan in 2002. James knows about traveling alone. He said he'd been living outside for some time, and his policy is to do his own thing, without relying on others. He said he didn't want to bring anyone else down, and didn't want anyone to bring him down. It reminded Beth Chapman, our Street Books reference librarian, of a quote she'd recently come across: "Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great. When you are seeking to bring big plans to fruition, it is important with whom you regularly associate. Hang out with friends who are like-minded and who are also designing purpose-filled lives. Similarly, be that kind of a friend for your friends."

—Mark Twain