In AN INLAND VOYAGE, Stevenson is at his best. The book was inspired by a canoe trip he made with a friend in 1876 on the rivers of northern France. As we travel with him, we meet a rich variety of characters, portrayed with unspoiled relish by the vivacious and energetic young author. It is charming to discover that boat clubs flourished on the continent a century ago, and that friendship and hospitality were as common among sportsmen then as they are today.