Globe Corner Blogs

I love being outside, whether it is on my bike, camping, hiking, or even driving around with the windows open. It is one of the greatest things in the world. However, I have found myself in certain situations where being outside can be a pretty scary thing. Some examples: you go on a hike, get lost, and do not know which way is which. Another time, you get up at night in the pitch black while camping and your flashlight doesn’t work. Or, your boat battery dies when you are nowhere near land. I know you’re thinking that I am an ill-prepared moron, but that is not always the case. You never know what is going to happen next and the great outdoors is called “great” for a reason.

There is a book I would recommend to you persons who might encounter these situations: Finding Your Way Without Map or Compass, by Harold Gatty. This dude tells you everything, and I mean everything. Within the book you will find:
1. How to navigate when lost at sea based on sea swells.
2. How to find your way when all the navigational tools die on your plane.
3. Where the sun is on a cloudy day just by looking at trees.

It is the guide of guides for any adventure, and you won’t even need a map of maps to help you.

This book is a definite “must read” because you never know where you’ll end up next. Even if you know that you’ll be in your living room for the rest of your life you should read this for the knowledge. Then, when your house is taken away by a tornado and lands in Oz, you will thank me because you will be able to find your way home based off of the reflections in the sky, or the color of the sea.

Harold Gatty…you are a genius.

Read more: Author Crush, Book Reviews, Outdoor Recreation, Travel Advice


Dan is a musician specializing in West African drumming and dancing. Other then drumming for his multiple bands, his favorite hobby is bikes bikes bikes. He also thinks that tattoos are totally sweet.

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