Our sentimental journey through France and Italy A new edition with Appendix

"Our Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy" by Joseph and Elizabeth Robins Pennell is a travel narrative written in the late 19th century. This work chronicles the authors' adventurous journey from London to Rome on a tandem tricycle, filled with observations and reflections on the places they visit and the people they encounter along the way. The Pennells aim to rediscover the joys of leisurely travel that were becoming marginalized by the rise of rail travel and mechanized transportation. At the start of the narrative, the authors share their motivations for embarking on this unique journey, describing their excitement and the challenges they face as they cross into France. The opening chapters capture their whimsical adventures, such as the initial struggles with customs and the local populace's reactions to their unconventional mode of travel. The Pennells encounter various towns and landscapes, reflecting on the beauty and historical significance of the regions they traverse, all while facing the ups and downs of cycling on foreign roads. Their entertaining accounts lay the groundwork for a deeper exploration of personal and cultural sentiments tied to travel and discovery, setting the tone for the adventures that lie ahead. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Joseph Pennell was an American draftsman, etcher, lithographer, and illustrator for books and magazines. A prolific artist, he spent most of his working life in Europe, and developed an interest in landmarks, landscapes, and industrial scenes around the world. A student of James Lambdin and Thomas Eakins, he was later influenced by James McNeill Whistler. He was married to author Elizabeth Robins, and he also was a writer.