Roundabout Books is pleased to welcome Kristen and Ville Jokinen for an evening of inspiration, storytelling and global community as they recount the adventures as captured in their book “Joy Ride: A Bike Odyssey from Alaska to Argentina”. The in-store event is March 26, 2026 at 6:30 pm. The Jokinens will also be sharing scenes from their latest adventure to Africa!
What began as a simple idea—two people, two bikes, and the open road—transformed into a life-changing, 18,000-mile odyssey from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, to Ushuaia, Argentina. With no long-distance cycling experience, Kristen and Ville pushed through relentless storms, altitude sickness, dog encounters, crashes, and countless flat tires. But the heart of their story isn’t the hardship—it’s the humanity.
Along the way, they were welcomed into homes, celebrations, kitchens, classrooms, and communities. They held babies, joined quinceañeras, played soccer with kids in village streets, drank pulque with new friends, and experienced generosity that reminded them—and now reminds us—that kindness is universal.
The event will include readings and reflections from “Joy Ride”, behind-the-scenes stories not found in the book and an audience Q&A.
A purchase of “Joy Ride” or a $5 ticket is your entry to the event. Books can be purchased through the Roundabout Books website here, via telephone at 541-306-6564, or in the store. For further information, please contact Roundabout Books’ Event Manager, Julie Swearingen, at julie@roundaboutbookshop.com.
Roundabout Books is a full-service independent bookstore, located in the heart of Bend’s Northwest Crossing Community. The staff takes tremendous pride in their highly curated selection of new adult and children’s books. Local Bend resident, Cassie Clemans, founded Roundabout Books nine years ago with a vision of enhancing the life of our community by providing a warm and comfortable literary space where people of all ages are welcome to read, browse, shop for books, meet a friend, or enjoy an event.
This story is based on submitted information and has not been verified by our news team.
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