THE REMARKABLE JOURNEY OF THE FIRST ROAD TRIP ACROSS AMERICA
a novel, a historical fiction for all ages, an adventure that requires an epic title
The Journey is Available Now!
$14.99 Paperback | $4.99 Ebook
order it online, from your favorite bookstore, or get a signed paperback right here!
It started as a bet, became a race, and changed the world.
Signed Paperback!
Order a single signed paperback and also receive a download link for an Order Packet with information about the trip and the first chapter! Start reading now and soon a signed paperback will arrive in the mail. Books will be sent to the address listed on the form filled out at purchase. Books will be signed with he name specified on the order form, if there is anything you’d like me to mention please list it on the form.
Multiple signed books available, but don’t forget to enter to discount codes.
(Only available for US residents, apologies I am unable to send books internationally at this time.)
No returns.
Limited Time Only - Free Shipping on orders before October 31, 2023! *
*US Residents Only, multi book orders will need to enter the code SENDIT
$15, Signed Paperback & Digital Download Packet
Book will be mailed via USPS
The easiest way to order one book. Get a digital download with facts about the book, and the signed paperback will be on its way.
$14.99, books will be mailed via USPS
Use Code 10OFF for 10% off orders over $50
Use Code SENDIT to receive Free Shipping
Codes must be entered during checkout after the form is filled out.
Booksellers, contact me about bigger discounts to sell books in your store. 20% off two books or more. Books are also available through my distributor, IngramSpark which offers the highest wholesale discounts, but those are unsigned.
Order the paperback online or from your favorite bookstore. Ebook available on multiple platforms.
In 1903, Sewall K. Crocker, the youngest mechanic in California, is hired by Dr. H. Nelson Jackson, the man who made a bet to do the impossible, cross America by automobile in 90 days. Along the way they pick up Bud, a goggle-wearing bulldog, who becomes a star in the newspapers. Every mile presents another obstacle to overcome like mountains, rivers, and mud, on the road to New York City.
With breakdowns now so severe they have to contact the factory for parts, will Sewall be able to keep the motorcar running before one of the other corporate-backed teams pass them? Sewall understands machines, Dr. Jackson is a dreamer, and Bud is beloved by all, but can this mechanic find the confidence to ensure they all finish this remarkable road trip?
The fictionalized account of a true story that changed the way the world viewed the automobile.
A True Story!
In 1903… 120 years ago… a bet was made to cross the continent in 90 days - a feat thought to be impossible. Everyone who tried had failed.
Sewall Crocker - the youngest mechanic in CA
Dr. H. Nelson Jackson - the man on a mission
The Vermont - A 1903 Winton Touring Automobile
Plus, meet Bud, the goggle-wearing American Bulldog
Join the Journey!
The book comes out April 25, 2023
The Road Trip begins on May 23, 2023
Follow along day by day
Read the book and check Instagram for updates on where Sewall, the doctor, and Bud are on their trip.
@bradrcook
See the Vermont today!
Visit the Vermont, the first car to cross America, in the Smithsonian Museum of American History in Washington D.C.
The book is a work of fiction, but the people and the journey are real. It was an honor to get to know them, and I hope they’d appreciate the novel. It was fun to write and if you want to know more, dig into history and get to know the real people who inspired this story.
Jackson and Crocker, in the Vermont - (Getty Images, 1903)
refresh page if image doesn’t appear
Learn more about this remarkable journey…
Sewall K Crocker
Dr. H. Nelson Jackson
The Vermont
Letters between Nelson & Bertha
Want to play a game… Select your story as you go on a road trip.
The Game is embedded below - use the action buttons not the toolbar to play
Relive history and select options like what car and what direction to take
It’s fun, but only a small portion of what they faced.
Can you make it to New York City?
< Use the Action Buttons (Orange Buttons) instead of the toolbar to play the game.
Computer users, expand the window, by opening the game in a new window. Click to expand. >
Follow along on my instagram @bradrcook
Now available!
in ebook and paperback
$4.99 | On Kindle
Ebook available in other formats, check your preferred online portal
Signed paperbacks available! $15
US residents only
$14.99 | Paperback
Order it online or from your favorite bookstore!
consider ordering the book from one of my favorite indie bookstores
Correction - Some copies contain six extra Ls. Montpelier, ID is spelled Montpellier. My apologies to the citizens of Montpelier. The problem has been corrected but several books exist with the misspelling.