Comic Travel Memoir Wins a Readers’ Favorite 5-Star Seal: ‘More Manchester Than Mongolia’]

I’m absolutely chuffed to bits to share that my upcoming release More Manchester Than Mongolia: An Unespected Road Trip Through Back Road Britain, has been awarded the prestigious Readers’ Favorite 5-Star Seal!

“This is an outstanding read and a must-have for anyone who enjoys adventure stories, family journeys, and humorous travel memoirs.”

Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers’ Favorite

Manchester is the sequel to the multi-award-winning Building The Beast: How (Not) To Build An Overland Camper, which was the first book in my Wayward Truck series. It follows our first year on the road in the 24.5-tonne army truck we converted into an off-grid campervan. The conversion was the subject of the first book, Building The Beast.

When I set out to write this comic memoir of dogs, diesel, disaster – and a grand plan gone majestically sideways, I never imagined it would resonate so strongly with readers around the world. Yet here we are – tail-wagging, engine-spluttering, and grinning like fat-faced idiots – celebrating a shiny seal of approval from one of publishing’s most trusted review platforms.

The official Readers’ Favorite review is below, but first, a huge thank you to everyone who has supported this madcap journey: the readers who’ have laughed (and occasionally winced) along with me, the bloggers who champion indie travel writing, and of course, the dogs, who provided emotional support and comic timing throughout – even if their contribution largely involved snoring, snuggling, or stealing socks at pivotal plot moments.

Winning this seal of approval feels like a lovely nod to the heart behind the humour: acknowledging that life rarely sticks to the script, and often the best stories are born when everything goes delightfully wrong.

Image of RIbblehead viaduct which features in Jacqueline Lambert's book More Manchester Than Mongolia, whose book cover is shown overlaid, along with the caption Pre Order Now at the special launch price of 99p/99c and a review quite that says 'I haven't laughed so much since Pam Ayres released 'Some of me Poetery' in 1976' by Drew Johnson, Author.

Here’s what Readers’ Favorite had to say:

More Manchester Than Mongolia by Jacqueline Lambert is an adventure memoir that follows the author, her husband Mark, and their four furry companions on a journey through the British countryside. After postponing their Mongolian road trip, they decided to take a test ride in their own backyard, which turned out to be a wise decision. The narrow, winding lanes that were difficult to see on maps, overhanging tree branches, and the occasional encounter with farm animals were just the beginning of their challenges. Jacqueline and Mark quickly discovered that their 30-year-old army truck, affectionately nicknamed The Beast, required significant maintenance. They faced obstacles such as electrical issues, plumbing problems, and tire changes. Despite these difficulties, they immersed themselves in British culture, exploring historical sites, local legends, and regional cuisines. Along the way, they met a variety of quirky characters and learned about the importance of freedom, as well as the true meaning of home and family.

More Manchester Than Mongolia is an enjoyable read that beautifully captures the unique landscape and spirit of rural Britain. Jacqueline Lambert’s narrative is both humorous and heartfelt, showing her bright and curious personality along with her positive outlook on life. She draws readers in with her vivid storytelling, making them feel as if they are experiencing every moment alongside her. One memorable encounter was with Ian, a fellow nomad sporting a Yorkshire accent, which provided plenty of comedic moments. The story also contains humbling experiences related to family responsibilities and medical scares, highlighting the fragility of life and reminding them of the reasons they chose to embrace adventure. Readers will gain vital insights about seizing opportunities to explore and the importance of not being confined by fear or routine, inspiring them to live fully and cherish every moment. This is an outstanding read and a must-have for anyone who enjoys adventure stories, family journeys, and humorous travel memoirs.

Luwi Nyakansaila

You can see the full review of More Manchester Than Mongolia on the Readers’ Favorite website.

Advance Reviews:

Picture of a lady holding Jacqueline Lambert's book More Manchester Than Mongolia with the review 'A fascinating travel memoir focusing on some of Britain's lesser known places' by Valerie Poore, author

ORDER NOW!

Manchester is Currently on Pre-Order at the SPECIAL LAUNCH PRICE OF 99p/99c (ebook only)

A picture showing all Jacqueline Lambert's books on a road background to reflect they are road trip memoirs. The image features reader review quotes such as 'inspiring' 'armchair travel delight' and 'her nimble writing resembles Bill Bryson and Paul Theroux'

About Jacqueline Lambert

Jacqueline (Jackie) Lambert is an award-winning travel writer and blogger. A dedicated adventurer, B.C. (Before Canines) she rafted, rock climbed, and backpacked around six of the seven continents. A passionate windsurfer and skier, she can fly a plane, has been bitten by a lion, and appeared as a fire eater on Japanese TV.

A.D. (After Dog), she quit work in 2016 to hit the road permanently with her husband and four pooches.

To date, they have toured more than 20 countries.