Billy Connolly's Route 66 : the Big Yin on the ultimate American road trip

**The best-loved comedian in Britain heads off on the most famous highway in the world for an unforgettable journey through America** Having always dreamed about taking a trip on the legendary Route 66, Billy Connolly is finally heading off on the ride of a lifetime. Traveling all 2,488 miles of this epic road, hitting both its classic landmarks and uncovering lesser-known gems, the comedian known as the Big Yin shares the experiences of the countless travelers who have taken the journey before him. He breaks out the banjo at every opportunity and stops off for a few comedy gigs on the way. Packed with local flavor, the tales he gathers on the way, from the skyscrapers of Chicago through the Wild West badlands of Oklahoma and Texas and on to the beaches of the Pacific coast, tell the story of modern America—and they might just inspire a few readers to get on their bikes as well. The book also contains a section with maps, playlists, recipes, and more, bringing the reader to the heart of this adventure. With his unrivaled instinct for a good story, and the affability that has endeared him to millions of fans, Billy is the ultimate companion for the ultimate road trip. The best-loved comedian in Britain hits the most famous highway in the world on an unforgettable journey. Billy Connolly, music-lover, biker, and scourge of the beige and bland the world over, has dreamed about taking a trip on the legendary Route 66 since he first heard Chuck Berry belting out one of the greatest rock 'n' roll records of all time. And now he's finally had the chance to do it, heading out on his custom-made trike in search of the real America that can still be found beyond the nation's freeways. Travelling every one of its 2,278 miles from the skyscrapers of Chicago to Santa Monica Pier in California, Billy's journey takes him past many of the essential icons of the United States: the Gateway Arch in St Louis, Monument Valley and the Grand Canyon, and the funky neon-lit gas stations and diners that once lined the route. But it also gives him the chance to get to know the people who call it home, from Mervin the Amish carpenter, to fellow banjo enthusiast and obsessive instrument collector Rob, to Angel, one of the many people determined to keep the spirit of the Mother Road alive. Funny, touching and inspiring in equal measure, the tales he gathers on the way tell the story of modern America. And they might inspire a few people to get on their bikes as well. With his unrivalled instinct for a good story, and the gregariousness that has made him our most engaging national treasure, Billy Connolly is the ultimate guide to the ultimate road trip. British comedian Billy Connolly takes legendary Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica Pier in California and describes the scenes and persons he meets along the way.