Book Review: Backpacking Centurion: Volume 4 By Jonny Blair

In Backpacking Centurion: Volume 4 - The Black Volume, Jonny Blair once again invites readers on a whirlwind tour through his eclectic and often surreal experiences across more than 100 countries. Initially conceived as a trilogy, Jonny's journey proved too expansive and too chaotic to be confined to just three volumes. This fourth instalment, aptly named "The Black Volume," delves into the untamed and raw stories that were originally left out—stories that are as captivating as they are shocking.

Jonny's narrative is unapologetically vivid, recounting incidents too "gruesome, gory, crazy, insane, wacky, zany, ridiculous and mad" for the previous volumes. From the grim realities of death camps to the unexpected hilarity of mates engaging in questionable activities with inflatables, Jonny leaves no stone unturned. Each chapter is a rollercoaster, blending dark humour with stark honesty, offering readers an unfiltered look into the unpredictable world of a relentless traveller.

The strength of this volume lies in its authenticity and rawness. Jonny’s storytelling is immersive, pulling readers into bizarre border mishaps, unnerving encounters with drug smuggling, and the often less-than-glamorous side of global backpacking, like dealing with overflowing toilets on the road. These tales, while at times shocking, are also profoundly human, showcasing Jonny's resilience and unyielding spirit.

One of the standout elements of The Black Volume is its ability to balance the macabre with the absurd. Jonny has a robust sense of humour and a knack for finding light in the darkest of situations. His ability to laugh at the absurdity of his circumstances makes the more intense stories palatable and even enjoyable.

The volume culminates in a poignant reflection as Jonny Blair completes his 147-chapter odyssey, marking the end of an era as darkness falls over Malaga. This metaphorical and literal darkness signals a transition, leaving readers both satisfied with the journey thus far and curious about what comes next.

Backpacking Centurion: Volume 4 - The Black Volume is not just a travel memoir; it is a raw, unfiltered plunge into the chaos and unpredictability of a life lived on the edge. Jonny Blair's final volume in the Backpacking Centurion series is a compelling read for anyone who appreciates travel literature that goes beyond the glossy facade and dives deep into the gritty, often uncomfortable reality of true adventure.

As well as Jonny's books, be sure to check out his DontStopLiving.net website which is dedicated to his travelling lifestyle and designed really well, and of course, we loved the font he chose for his logo!