Published: 2018
Author: Jedidiah Jenkins
Genres: Memoir, Travel Writing, Self-Discovery, LGBTQ+ Nonfiction
Audience: Grades 11–12, Adult
Number of Stars: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Goodreads Link: To Shake the Sleeping Self
Content Warnings: Religious questioning/doubt, sexuality and LGBTQ+ themes, and mentions of marijuana use.
Publisher’s Summary
On the eve of his thirtieth birthday, terrified of a life lived on autopilot, Jedidiah Jenkins quit his dream job to spend sixteen months cycling from Oregon to the southern tip of South America. Chronicling his 16,000-mile trek on Instagram, Jedidiah drew hundreds of thousands of followers who were all captivated by one question: What makes a life worth living?
In this unflinchingly honest memoir, Jenkins narrates both the external adventure—the diverse people and dangerous terrains of Mexico, Central America, and the Andes—and the internal journey of reconciling his sexual identity with his conservative Christian upbringing. To Shake the Sleeping Self is a soul-stirring reflection on travel as a tool to wake us up to the world and ourselves.
Full Review
To Shake the Sleeping Self is a fascinating travel memoir that documents a 16,000-mile bicycle journey from the coast of Oregon to Patagonia, Argentina. Jedidiah Jenkins took this trip—partly solo and partly with a companion—to escape the feeling of being “funneled” into a life he didn’t choose.
The most gripping parts of the book involve the physical challenges of the journey. Jenkins details the grueling nature of long-distance cycling, from rationing limited funds to sleeping under bridges and navigating rural roads where food was scarce. His journey through Mexico was particularly eye-opening, showcasing the contrast between established cities like Mexico City and rural areas under the shadow of cartel activity.
Beyond the geography, the book is a deep dive into the author’s internal monologue. He grapples with fear, indecision, and the complex task of navigating his faith and his identity as a gay man. While I don’t typically pick up travel memoirs, a friend’s recommendation led me to this easy, engaging nonfiction read. It is an inspiring choice for anyone interested in geography, South American culture, or the philosophy of personal growth.
🎒 Classroom & Curricular Connections
- Geography & Global Studies: Use the memoir to map the physical terrain of the Pan-American Highway.
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Activity Idea: Track Jedidiah’s journey on a digital map. Research the climate and average temperature of three distinct locations he visited (e.g., the deserts of Mexico vs. the cold tip of Patagonia) and discuss how his gear would have to change.
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- Health & Wellness (Self-Discovery): Discuss the concept of a “Quarter-Life Crisis.” Why do people feel the need to undertake “quests” at major life milestones? Discuss healthy ways to navigate periods of indecision and fear.
- ELA (Memoir & Internal Monologue): Analyze Jenkins’ writing style. How does he balance the description of the physical world (the bike, the roads) with his internal world (his faith and identity)?
- Economics (Budgeting for Adventure): Jenkins started with limited money.
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Activity Idea: Create a mock budget for a 16-month bike trip. Estimate costs for food, equipment repairs, and emergency lodging. How does “rationing” impact the decisions a traveler makes?
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- Social Studies (Cultural Diversity): Research the areas Jedidiah mentions in Mexico and Peru. Compare the “rural” vs. “established” areas he describes to challenge stereotypes about Latin American infrastructure.
