Lost, Kidnapped, Eaten Alive!

True stories from a curious traveler

What happens when curiosity outruns caution?

In these true stories, curiosity doesn’t just lead to discovery—it invites chaos. Whether navigating unfamiliar landscapes, unexpected hosts, or situations that escalate beyond all reason, these true stories capture what happens when you say Yes a little too often.

By turns funny, tense, and deeply human, these essays explore the fragile line between adventure and misadventure—where the smallest decision can spiral into something unforgettable:

Escape kidnappers
Lock the keys in your car in the middle of the Outback
Accidentally marry a Maasai warrior…

Sometimes the story you come home with isn’t the one you meant to tell—it’s the one you survived.

Click here to get your book from:

Inside the World of Lost, Kidnapped, Eaten Alive!

Read the Kirkus profile of Laurie McAndish King.

The Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Award

Learn more about The Kindness of Strangers.

What People are Saying:

”King brings uncommon heart and soul to her travel stories … a rollicking ride.
Michael ShapiroAuthor, A Sense of Place: Great Travel Writers Talk about their Craft, Lives, and Inspiration

”Part cultural tour, part prayer to the natural world … circles the globe with lively adventures and intimate insights.
Publisher's Weekly

”Insightful and humorous, full of … passion, perception and surprise. And yes, she can eat a horse!
Connie BurkeEditor, Venturing in Ireland

”Lively and intimate vignettes … read like a close friend’s postcards-turned-keepsakes. A suspenseful and joyous romp around the world!
Tressa BermanAuthor and anthropologist

”“French Kiss” is sexy and funny—a great combination.
Jim BenningDeputy Travel Editor, BBC.com

”An engaging, meticulously observed journey that brings other cultures alive.
Kirkus Reviews

”This wonderful story of human endurance and perseverance [“Silk from Ashes”] is masterfully told… The author’s touch is light and endearing, and her story stays with you.
Society of American Travel Writers

”Transports readers to faraway places with vivid details of cultural quirks, real people, flora, fauna, and food.
Camille CusumanoAuthor, Tango, An Argentine Love Story

Stay connected—
or go a little deeper.

A Little Laurie included — add The Whole Story anytime!

Subscribe on Substack