Welcome to Books and Travel.
When I think about what I want to do with my life, I always come back to books and travel. I’m fascinated by the inner and outer journeys that both can bring — a change in perspective, empathy, perhaps an entirely new direction. If you know what I mean, then read on …
If you want to find a travel destination, a way to get there or a book to read, use the search bar below.
I’m Jo Frances Penn. I write thrillers and dark fantasy stories under J.F. Penn and non-fiction for writers under Joanna Penn.
I’m a podcaster, audiobook narrator, and creative entrepreneur — but I’m also a traveler. I hope you’ll join me on a journey both inside and out.
The ocean represents what this site and podcast are about.
The light turquoise shallows where you’re safe and can bask in the sun with a cocktail in hand, exploring the simple joys of a new place. I’ll be sharing articles about places I’ve travelled, podcast interviews with authors around the places that inspire their writing, as well as tips on culture, food and drink.
The dark midnight depths where you feel an edge of challenge and a pull to the deep. I’ll be talking and writing about the darker side of travel, as well as the inner journey — perhaps the most important exploration of all.
I’ve wanted to write a travel memoir for many years and finally did with Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways, and I’m also writing a book about creating from the shadow side. I am finally making the space for those to emerge on these pages and look forward to sharing aspects of my creative journey with you.
While the site is primarily my own exploration of books and travel, I’ll also be sharing articles by other writers, expanding the reach into other places and minds.
Start exploring with the links below:
- Listen to the Books and Travel Podcast
- Read Articles on unusual and fascinating places
- Sign up for your free thriller, Day of the Vikings
