The idea for Dispatch49 came about when I was in high school. At that time my interest in geography, cultures, and the broader world started to take hold. From the age of 15 or so, I wanted to find a way to learn about every culture and people. Initially I wanted to live on every continent for seven years, study a primary language there, and live with the people. I called this project 7x7. Live seven years on seven continents each - 49 years.
It didn't seem too far fetched at the age of 28 when I moved to Saudi Arabia to begin the adventure. However, things worked out differently. A new job stateside, a long-term relationship ending in a marriage and divorce, and a young baby put long-term travel plans on hold. I wanted a way to still explore, honor, and celebrate the world's diversity. I thought reading might hold the key.
I set up a program to read about every country and territory in the world - currently 249. I figured I could read three books in two month blocks without losing momentum over time. I wanted one to be historical, one creative, and one by a woman - all from native authors if possible. I also knew I'd need a break. Two months a year without an obligation to the project seemed fair. Five countries/territories a year, fifteen books, and time away if I needed it.
Wildly, 249/5 = 49.8. In other words, reading about five countries/territories a year would take me 49 years. This is the same number as living on each continent for seven years. I took it as a good sign to get my project underway.
My intent here is to share the books I read, along with the music, film, and food I discover along the way. The reading schedule is in alphabetical order, and I'll share that here. I started with Afghanistan in January of 2021. The project continues with four primary actions - explore, engage, inquire, and evolve.
If you'd like to join me, please follow along here or on Medium or social media. Feel free to drop an email any time as well.
Much love to the world and discovery.
Cheers,
Mike Huckleberry