Our American Adventure

Our American Adventure is Arthur Conan Doyle's vibrant and revelatory travel memoir chronicling his whirlwind lecture tour across the United States and Canada in 1922. Far from a passive tourist diary, this account captures the pulse of post-war America through the eyes of a famed British author on a mission—not to promote Sherlock Holmes, but to spread the message of spiritualism. With eloquence, curiosity, and charm, Doyle documents encounters with crowds both rapturous and skeptical, reflects on cultural differences, marvels at American energy and openness, and defends his controversial beliefs with unwavering conviction. From New York to San Francisco, his journey is equal parts cultural exploration and spiritual crusade. Candid, engaging, and historically illuminating, Our American Adventure offers a rare, humanizing glimpse into the world of a literary giant far from Baker Street and deep in the heart of roaring 1920s America.

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859–1930) was a Scottish author, physician, and spiritualist best known for creating the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes. Born in Edinburgh, he studied medicine at the University of Edinburgh, where his storytelling talent began to emerge alongside his scientific education. Though initially practicing as a doctor, Doyle turned to writing to support himself, eventually achieving worldwide fame with the publication of A Study in Scarlet in 1887. Beyond detective fiction, he explored historical novels, science fiction, and supernatural themes, notably in the Professor Challenger series. A passionate advocate for justice, he was involved in several real-life legal investigations. In his later years, Doyle became deeply involved in spiritualism, dedicating much of his time and writings to life after death. His legacy endures as one of the most influential figures in literary history.