Marked by Adams’ clear voice and gentle spirit, “Turn Right…” is a stunning narrative that parallels one man’s adventures exploring the Peruvian mountains with that of another man, Hiram Bingham III.

Following in the footsteps of this “real-life Indiana Jones,” Adams sets out to fact-check the writings of Bingham III, who was famously credited as the discoverer of Machu Picchu.

Though they are separated by nearly a century, Adams’ account plays with the similarities he and Bingham share. Like Bingham, Adams was also a middle-aged white man who became bored with the everyday, a boredom that prompted an expedition to unknown territory in Peru (unknown to westerners that is.)

Adams’ approach to this complicated history is well-researched, sensitive and even empathetic as the book divulges Bingham III’s vivid personal life. Rest assured, this book is not simply a history. Between chapters of rigid socialite hierarchy and Yale University happenings, entertaining accounts of Adams’ trek incite feelings of youthful daring and personal growth.

Where the narrative falters, however, is Adams’ fear of taking poetic and lyrical risks. “Turn Right…” drags its heels at the midway point, causing readers to question, “What’s the pay-off? Should I finish this book?” Here, the author seems uncertain of himself, a trait that, while at first charming, becomes tiresome. Luckily, moments of comedic relief (like when the westerner gets a buzz from chewing coca leaves) and the spirited Peruvians’ tolerance of Adams make up for the author’s unfortunately arid personality.

Still, as history and modern experience collide in the story, readers experience living documentation of one of the 7 wonders of the world — and the tumultuous path history has taken to arrive there.