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Synopsis
Some journeys we choose. Others choose us.
In the aftermath of tragedy, Barry Hoffner wanted to feel the pulse of the world again. The whole world.
When Barry Hoffner lost his wife and travel partner, Jackie, in a sudden tragedy, his grief was a black hole that consumed everything. But amid the quiet wreckage of loss, some- thing unexpected stirred: the call to move, to reconnect, and to live fully again.
What began as a reluctant return to the road became an audacious mission to visit all 193 countries on Earth, something less than an estimated 500 people in the world have accomplished. His aim was not to escape his pain, but to transform it. Along the way, Barry discovered a world with far more depth and complexity than headlines suggest—one full of unexpected joy, even amid hardship and struggle. From war zones to mountaintops, refugee camps to ancient ruins, he found people whose kindness and openness brought him back to life.
Belonging to the World is a deeply felt memoir of healing from grief, finding resilience, and forging human connection across the globe.
All proceeds from the sale of Belonging to the World will go to Bourse Jackie scholarships for young women in West Africa provided by the Caravan to Class Foundation.
Author Bio
Barry Hoffner is the founder and executive director of Caravan to Class, a foundation that brings access to education for youth in West Africa. The foundation’s anchor program, Bourse Jackie scholarships for young women, is named in honor of his late wife. Hoffner lives in Sausalito, California, and is the proud father of two adult sons, Benjamin and Daniel.