Continuing in a nonfiction frame of mind, my latest read is a remarkable true story of a young Australian’s journey across the Outback alone save for her four camels. Ms. Davidson’s story took place over thirty year ago and this book has been in print since then. Somehow, even though I have read plenty of solo travel stories, I missed out on this one until I saw the trailer for the new movie of the same name. 

The story is not a story of adventure but one of becoming. Initially Robyn rails against the racism and misogyny of 1970’s Australia, but she continually reveals her own hypocrisy in her jaded treatment of others. She pushes everyone away and is unlikeable. Yet what draws the reader forward is her direct honesty and perspective of her situations. Few memoirs I have read have been able to capture such a level of understanding – even in hindsight. She sees her faults and is able to progress past. Not to never repeat them, but with a constant struggle to best her faults. An admirable pursuit and one that says, “Anyone can overcome with effort.” 

Davidson spends years learning the camel trade even though she had no prior experience. She draws together resources and equipment while being flat broke. She allows herself to be followed by National Geographic even though she is a commited loner. These are barriers to be conquered head on. While there is no real peril in the book, even during her walk through the desert, the consistent effort she exerts is a force that makes nature submit to her will. She may say that she submitted to nature’s will. 

The animals are worth a mention. They are the underlying heart of the story. Recalcitrant, imposing, yet reliable and faithful, the four camels are the real muscle and sinew that make the walk possible. They are fascinating – whether because they’re portrayed as human or because of their idiosyncrasies. They make an American glad to have horses yet envious of their imperviousness to wearing down. Diggity, Robyn’s dog, is presented as the heart of the tale, but this rings a little untrue. She may be Robyn’s heart, but she plays a key foil of devotion to Robyn’s exclusion. 

It seems almost not right to reveal much about the aboriginal characters in the story except to say that they possess a humanity that one aches for. 

The film, based on the National Geographic pictures that accompanied the initial article, is a visual delight. Unlike many films, it did not drum up adventures to make it more appealing. It left the story unvarnished. Even if it didn’t capture the essence of Ms. Davidson’s writing, it is beautiful. 

Check out the trailer here: Tracks (trailer)

7.5 out of 10 stars