Book Review: Wayfaring Stranger: A Musical Journey in the American South

Upon first inspection of Wayfaring Stranger: A Musical Journey in the American South, I wondered if I had any business reading it. Reading about the history of anything, let alone something I should probably be listening to made me feel apprehensive. I don’t generally have much more than a passing interest in music history, and I have absolutely no point of reference for bluegrass music. However, I highly encourage anyone who may regard this book with similar skepticism to absolutely pick it up and read it! You will not be disappointed.

It was my great pleasure to discover that not only was author, Emma John similarly unfamiliar with the American South and its ties to bluegrass music, but her skillful writing and honest narration made this book a joy to read. John’s dogged efforts to utilize her background in classical violin to find her footing within the bluegrass community and master the techniques of the genre make Wayfaring Stranger a delightful musical exploration within a history lesson within an engaging Hero’s journey.

Aside from providing a comprehensive and witty history of the musical genre, this book was a wonderful reminder of the trials and tribulations of trying to learn something that you just aren’t good at yet. Where many would give up, put their instrument back into its case and skulk away from the challenge, it’s delightful to see John dig her heels in further, stubbornly pursuing what must have felt at times like an impossible goal. John’s internal struggles set against the backdrop of the political and racial divisiveness within the United States make this book deeply human and relatable.

Though written through the lens of an outsider, Wayfaring Stranger ushers its reader through the historical, musical and emotional journey of bluegrass music with the same welcoming style of Southern hospitality that John relied on to teach her about that same music, and herself. If you’re a fan of intelligent, informative and introspective non-fiction, you will love this book. 

Wayfaring Stranger is published by Weidenfeld & Nicholson.
Buy it here