The most extraordinary book by the bestselling author. To celebrate the 250th birthday of the greatest German naturalist on September 14, 2019, the award-winning Humboldt expert Andrea Wulf presents a vividly colorful, lavishly illustrated book about Humboldt's famous South American expedition. Inspired by his diaries, copper engravings, sketches, maps, and preserved plants, she tells the story of his journey from a completely new perspective: through Humboldt's own diary entries, which have only recently become accessible. The expressive drawings by New York illustrator Lillian Melcher capture scenes from the expedition, such as the daring journey on the Orinoco or the spectacular ascent of Chimborazo. "The Adventures of Alexander von Humboldt" recounts struggles, dangers, excitement, and discoveries, as well as Humboldt's encounters with the indigenous people of South America and his warnings about human-caused climate change. Science meets adventure: every page in this very special book for the Humboldt anniversary year is a sensory journey of discovery.