The Geography of the Soul
Dreams, Reality, and the Journey of a Lifetime
Memoir
By:
Royce Fitts
In The Geography of the Soul, Dr. Royce Fitts embarks on a solitary stravage—a wandering walk—across the elegant English countryside, tracing what is believed to be the oldest road in England and Europe, a path shaped in prehistory, long before the English Channel divided the land. As his feet follow this ancient road, his spirit journeys just as deeply inward.
Interwoven with the physical walk are luminous reflections drawn from a lifetime of memories, dreams, and healings—from his work and personal history on the American prairie to the inner landscapes shaped by love, loss, and longing. Past and present, outer terrain and inner life, merge into a single, meditative pilgrimage.
Both memoir and invitation, The Geography of the Soul asks readers to walk alongside Fitts as he explores how meaning is made—not by avoiding our wounds, but by learning to live creatively and courageously within them. This is a book for anyone ready—whether boldly or with great fear—to step off the well-worn path and begin shaping a life of healing, beauty, and deep authenticity.
“An extraordinary read! Geography of the Soul is arduous and gentle, challenging and provocative, as Dr. Fitts takes the reader on a true pilgrimage across the Ridgeway Trail in England, 100 miles on foot. I predict, just like Cheryl Strayed’s Wild sent record numbers of people out of their comfort zones to walk the Pacific Crest Trail, people will soon be out in droves to the Ridgeway Trail to walk in Royce’s adventurous footsteps. As a woman, I wondered if I’d be able to relate to Royce’s story. I’m surprised and delighted to report that I not only related but felt he was peering into my soul as he was revealing his. Geography of the Soul turns out to be a book for anyone with a soul and a dream, and the willingness to find magic in unexpected places.
-- Kelly Sullivan Walden, Dream Expert, Media Personality, & International Bestselling author of A Crisis Is A Terrible Thing to Waste
“Run! Don’t walk to get your copy!! In this compelling memoir, Dr. Royce Fitts has crafted a literary masterpiece that will resonate with readers across the globe. The book’s ability to simultaneously touch our hearts, stimulate our minds, and nourish our souls is a testament to the author’s endearing spirit and profound understanding of the human condition. It is a transformative journey of healing, revelation, and self-discovery that will remain etched in my heart for a lifetime. I cannot recommend this book enough; it is truly a gift to the literary world and anyone seeking inspiration and enlightenment.
-- Viviana Guzmán, Grammy Nominated album artist, TEDx speaker, internationally performing flutist, faculty member, University of California, Santa Cruz
“Royce takes you on a non-linear journey into the inner and outer landscapes of his life. His stravage, as he describes it—'…engaging in a defiant walk, a decision to stray without limits…'—invites you to see beyond your conceived notions and beliefs and stretch into limitlessness, flow, and mystery—a journey that many of us are afraid to take. Royce guides you in ways you may have never encountered before, sharing waking and sleeping dreams, and ultimately, if you are willing, helping you find your authentic truth.”
-- Dr. Patti Ashley, psychotherapist, TEDx speaker, author of Shame-Informed Therapy: Treatment Strategies to Overcome Shame and Reconstruct the Authentic Self