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Author: Dan Jackson

Publisher: End Run Press

ISBN: 978-0-9794463-0-6

Dan Jackson never thought he’d end up telling this tale to anyone, but now he’s had his story published. A remarkable and engrossing true story of two friends.

It’s not often I find myself saying this, but the cover of this book instantly got my attention. I absolutely loved the picture of the little blue Beetle and the wide expanse of land, the low clouds in the background and the distant hills. It is one of those things that just grabs you before you even begin to read and I have to admit, even before I read the first paragraph, I knew I would love this. I know they always say never to judge a book by its cover but I think on this occasion you can. It really does give a true impression of the landscape that is within this journey and also the feel of the wilderness.

Old Bug is the tale of an adventure that two friends share who have barely spoken to one another in almost three decades. Through just a few emails, Dan and his old friend Richard arrange a life-changing experience, the experience of driving more then 3,000 miles in a battered ’69 Beetle across America to arrive in New Jersey within just four days.

For Dan, this seems unthinkable, laughable and certainly not something to be even considered. With a wife and eleven year old daughter, Esme, at home Dan feels pretty sure this isn’t the adventure for him. However with the thought of seeing his friend and getting out of the house for almost two weeks, the possibility seems tempting. Even though Richard mentioned this was more of a spiritual quest for himself and a much-needed visit to his parents who he hasn’t seen in 14 years and who he hasn’t shared a very good history with either, Dan believes it might be something of a learning curve for himself.

Grabbing two changes of clothes and a few toiletry essentials, Dan packs his “carry-on” bag and sets off to meet Richard. On seeing his old friend, reality hits home. Is Dan really prepared to face four days of almost continuous driving in a car that is now considered antique?

Along the way the duo face problems from the very start. “Bug” seems to be breaking down a lot on the highway but always the optimist, Richard thinks he has the answers to all mechanical problems and is sure it is “vapor lock”.  However his theory is tested along the roads, and within a short space, the two-some are seeking garages and car mechanics in desperate need of an explanation.

Money never lasts long because of all the stops Dan and Richard have to take especially when they are continuingly fishing out for motels, food and petrol.

Can they make it to their destination and reach home? And how will Richard’s family react when he turns up?

I loved reading about two middle aged men taking a voyage of self-discovery in an old Beetle. It is just the most amusing and engrossing read of its type filled with funny episodes and also quite touching moments. Dan explores spiritual questions throughout this book, always the philosopher, and asks just what is God?

 Being not much of a believer myself it’s interesting to read what Dan thinks about this religion. A great read that I just couldn’t put down. From the cover to the last word, this is one book I’m sure is destined for a hit.

The above review was contributed by: Jessica Roberts: Jessica has been a book reviewer for a newspaper and a national women's magazine and is working on a novel.