Belonging to the World: A Journey from Grief to Connection in Every Country on Earth

Readers' Choice Book Awards Bronze Winner, Adult NonfictionThe BookFest 2026 First-Place Award Winner, Self-Discovery & Travel Journals2026 Nonfiction Book Awards Silver Winner2026 Finalist for Author of the Year, International Impact Book Awards2026 Indie Reader Discovery Award Winner, Best Travel Book"More than a travel memoir, this is a powerful story of grief, resilience, and finding belonging in a world that keeps opening its doors." —Nonfiction Author’s AssociationSome journeys we choose. Others choose us.In the aftermath of tragedy, Barry Hoffner wanted to feel the pulse of the world again. The whole world.When Barry Hoffner lost his wife and travel partner, Jackie, in a sudden tragedy, his grief was a black hole that consumed everything. But amid the quiet wreckage of loss, something unexpected stirred: the call to move, to reconnect, and to live fully again.What began as a reluctant return to the road became an audacious mission to visit all 193 countries on Earth—not to escape his pain, but to transform it. Along the way, Barry discovered a world with far more depth and complexity than headlines suggest—one full of unexpected joy, even amid hardship and struggle. From war zones to mountaintops, refugee camps to ancient ruins, he found people whose kindness and openness brought him back to life.Belonging to the World is a deeply felt memoir of healing from grief, finding resilience, and forging human connection across the globe. Read more