An Inkling, A Backpack and All the Time in the World–Traveling on a Whim by Tamara K. Bryant was one of the more innocent backpacking stories I’ve read. Although partying was high on the author’s list of accomplishments as she traveled through Southeast Asia and Australia, she wasn’t looking to hook up with randomly met individuals or get high. Cute little drawings could be found throughout the story, but no pictures of the amazing things she saw.

There were ​just a few editing issues that should be addressed. A number of words had apostrophe ‘s when they should be s indicating plural. Then there was the repetition of the author’s introduction “mat backwards” which was cute the first time, but the joke got old fast. Another unnecessary repetition was the author’s sense of superiority when people scrambled to get off the plane. Just because the author had all the time in the world and could miss a connecting flight or ride from the airport on her leisurely travels didn’t mean everyone had that luxury.

As with most backpacking chronicles, the author enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow travelers. However, her immaturity was evident. Dumping a glass of water on a person in her hostel room because he complained about her 6:00 am noise certainly broke the unwritten consideration laws. Not recognizing the fact that one of her travel companions was interested in being more than friends is another example.

Some of her off-the-trail adventures could have been disasters. A female solo traveler can find herself in dangerous situations even when she takes precautions that the author didn’t even consider. The author was fortunate in her choice of travel partners and locations.

Overall, An Inkling, A Backpack and All the Time in the World–Traveling on a Whim by Tamara K. Bryant was a fun read. The author has a personable storytelling ability. The places she visited were unique. It’s hard to resist her zest for adventure. It’s a nice gap year narrative, which in the current limited travel situation we find ourselves in because of COVID-19, makes a pleasant armchair adventurer book.

I received an ARC from the author for this review.