Book Review - This Is The Next Century: Aftershot by J Blair

Jonny Blair's This Is The Next Century: Aftershot seamlessly continues from where his previous series, Backpacking Centurion, concluded.

Having accomplished his goal of visiting 100 countries by the age of 34, Jonny embarks on the quest for the next 100 with renewed zeal and curiosity. Aftershot initiates a new adventure trilogy, exploring both renowned and obscure destinations with Jonny's characteristic enthusiasm and candid storytelling.

In Aftershot, readers embark on a captivating journey from the deserts of Tunisia to the bustling streets of Bangladesh and the remote beauty of the Faroe Islands. Jonny Blair's fascination with lesser-known territories is evident as he ventures into places like Austenasia, Podjistan, Adammia, Karakalpakstan, and Ladonia. His adventurous spirit and ability to uncover the extraordinary in the ordinary make these chapters especially engaging.

What distinguishes this book is Jonny’s readiness to confront the darker aspects of travel. He recounts the brutal realities of world-suffering with unflinching honesty. Jonny’s raw and evocative narrative provides a stark contrast to the more whimsical or routine travel experiences. These intense sections add depth to the memoir, reflecting the full spectrum of human experiences encountered on the road.

Jonny Blair’s style is both accessible and compelling, blending humour with poignant reflections. His talent for weaving light-hearted anecdotes with sobering realities keeps readers engaged and invested in his journey. The book’s quiz question—whether Jonny will end up in magnetic Kyrgyzstan (where he happened to see some amazing jewellery in a museum - something that we all love here at LuminaSnow), return to the skyscrapers of Hong Kong, or continue wandering—adds an element of intrigue and anticipation, inviting readers to speculate alongside him.

This Is The Next Century: Aftershot is more than just a travel memoir; it's a testament to the unyielding human spirit and the relentless pursuit of new horizons. Jonny Blair’s adventures remind us that travel is as much about confronting the unknown as it is about celebrating the known. For readers who enjoy immersive travel narratives that don’t shy away from the gritty realities of the world, this book is a must-read.

Jonny’s journey through Aftershot is a vivid reminder of the power of exploration and the endless stories the world holds. Whether he finds himself in the magnetic allure of Kyrgyzstan, the towering heights of Hong Kong, or somewhere entirely unexpected, one thing is certain: Jonny Blair’s adventures are far from over.