Perspective

The book is written entirely in first person from Bill Bryson's point of view. The perspective is limited to that of Bryson. The story is written from both Bryson's point of view as he travels and his memories of childhood. The first person limited point of view is the only option available for this story. The use of first person is vital because of Bryson's tendency to include personal memories. For example, Bryson tells the story of seeing his grandfather's death. Had Bryson used a third person point of view, the personal memories would have had a lesser impact.

While Bryson's sarcasm is sometimes scathing, there is a sense of the importance of his family connection that is evident throughout the book. The understanding of that family connection lessens the impact of the sarcasm and humor that might otherwise be offensive. For example, Bryson's relationship to his father...