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Hildasay #1
Finding Hildasay: How one man walked the UK's coastline and found hope and happiness
Join Christian Lewis as he walks the entire coastline of the UK – his dog Jet in tow – and rebuilds his life, step by step. With a foreword from longtime supporter Ben Fogle, Finding HIldasay is his inspiring true story of reconnecting with nature and finding hope along the way.Ex-paratrooper Christian Lewis had hit rock bottom, suffering with depression so severe he would shut himself in his bedroom for weeks. Then while surfing – his sole respite – he cast his eyes along the coastline and realized it was the only place he really wanted to be.
Then, Chris made an impulsive decision. He set himself a to walk the entire coastline of the UK. He gave himself a few days to rustle up a tent and walking boots, then left for good with just a tenner in his pocket and two days’ worth of food. Little did he know at the time just how long it would take to cross the finish line – and the encounters lying ahead would turn his life around.
Almost six years later, Chris has navigated the West Coast, Northern Ireland, the hard-rock cliffs of Scotland and the perimeters of the Scottish Islands. He spent three months on an uninhabited island called Hildasay, with beloved dog Jet. It was there, the most barren his route had become, that he found within himself the pride and respect he needed – and his journey became all the more remarkable. Happiness and hope was just around the corner . . .
Then, Chris made an impulsive decision. He set himself a to walk the entire coastline of the UK. He gave himself a few days to rustle up a tent and walking boots, then left for good with just a tenner in his pocket and two days’ worth of food. Little did he know at the time just how long it would take to cross the finish line – and the encounters lying ahead would turn his life around.
Almost six years later, Chris has navigated the West Coast, Northern Ireland, the hard-rock cliffs of Scotland and the perimeters of the Scottish Islands. He spent three months on an uninhabited island called Hildasay, with beloved dog Jet. It was there, the most barren his route had become, that he found within himself the pride and respect he needed – and his journey became all the more remarkable. Happiness and hope was just around the corner . . .
352 pages, Hardcover
Published February 2, 2023
218 people are currently reading
1784 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
March 19, 2023
SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity whom I currently work for, were kind enough to give me a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
This is the story in his own words of Christian #ChrisWalks Lewis's epic journey walking(!) the entire coastline of the United Kingdom to raise money for SSAFA! Chris is a military veteran, a single parent that struggled transitioning into civilian life; he was supported by SSAFA on a number of occasions, so decided he would give something back. Oh a few other things, when Christ set off on his epic journey he was at a pretty low point in his life, was homeless, and had only £10 in his pocket!
I had no idea what I was getting into joining Chris on his journey, especially as working for SSAFA I thought I was fully aware of Chris's endeavours. Told in the words of 'everyman' Chris this is not just the story of one man finding Hildasay, where Hildasay is not just an uninhabited island in the Shetlands (a group of Islands in Scotland global reader :)); it is a story of finding hope and happiness; a story of a father finding himself and wanting his daughter to be proud of him; a story of the love of Jet the amazing dog and what bonding with Jet did for Chris; a story of a veteran returning to Northern Ireland and getting to see that beautiful country through a new lens; and for me most of all the story of our great country where you can get what you put in, how Chris's character, demeanour, personality, even smile got people all over Scotland and Northern Ireland helping and supporting him on his journey from freely giving resources to the loan of the sole dwelling on Hildasay!
I picked this book up one rainy morning this March and found that I couldn't put it down, zooming through it in a few days. One of those books that colleagues in my office will saw me reading whenever left my seat, even if just nipping over to the kitchen or another floor! Readers of my reviews, know that I am all about story , so believe you me, this is not just an awe inspiring endeavour, it is also a damn fine read. In the end, 'finding Hildasay', is something we all need to do, at least once in our lives. A Four Star, 8.5 out of 12 for me. Another great thing about this story, is knowing that there is so much more to come, check out #ChrisWalks on any social media platform.
- I read the hardback version which is yet to be added to Goodreads, so I will add in a few days and update this review.
2023 read
This is the story in his own words of Christian #ChrisWalks Lewis's epic journey walking(!) the entire coastline of the United Kingdom to raise money for SSAFA! Chris is a military veteran, a single parent that struggled transitioning into civilian life; he was supported by SSAFA on a number of occasions, so decided he would give something back. Oh a few other things, when Christ set off on his epic journey he was at a pretty low point in his life, was homeless, and had only £10 in his pocket!
I had no idea what I was getting into joining Chris on his journey, especially as working for SSAFA I thought I was fully aware of Chris's endeavours. Told in the words of 'everyman' Chris this is not just the story of one man finding Hildasay, where Hildasay is not just an uninhabited island in the Shetlands (a group of Islands in Scotland global reader :)); it is a story of finding hope and happiness; a story of a father finding himself and wanting his daughter to be proud of him; a story of the love of Jet the amazing dog and what bonding with Jet did for Chris; a story of a veteran returning to Northern Ireland and getting to see that beautiful country through a new lens; and for me most of all the story of our great country where you can get what you put in, how Chris's character, demeanour, personality, even smile got people all over Scotland and Northern Ireland helping and supporting him on his journey from freely giving resources to the loan of the sole dwelling on Hildasay!
I picked this book up one rainy morning this March and found that I couldn't put it down, zooming through it in a few days. One of those books that colleagues in my office will saw me reading whenever left my seat, even if just nipping over to the kitchen or another floor! Readers of my reviews, know that I am all about story , so believe you me, this is not just an awe inspiring endeavour, it is also a damn fine read. In the end, 'finding Hildasay', is something we all need to do, at least once in our lives. A Four Star, 8.5 out of 12 for me. Another great thing about this story, is knowing that there is so much more to come, check out #ChrisWalks on any social media platform.
- I read the hardback version which is yet to be added to Goodreads, so I will add in a few days and update this review.
2023 read
December 18, 2023
I won’t lie, I’m genuinely confused by all the high scoring reviews. Although an incredible personal achievement - this is a badly written book. One note the entire time, I almost gave up on this book several times because I was so bored. The passages about his past saved me slightly but on the whole this book was so disappointing!!! I found his writing voice to be uncharismatic and conceited. Glad to be finished with it, should have hired a ghost writer.
January 30, 2023
I'm one of the 100,000 or so people who follows Chris's walk on social media, but like many others, I'd started following Chris when he was a year or two into the journey. When I heard he was writing a book about the journey (up to lockdown!), I was really keen to get a copy and read about what I'd missed.
Given I'd started following when Chris was gaining a bit more publicity and help, I believe I'd seen the easier side of the walk and (like Chris!) I wasn't fully prepared for the full realities of the early parts of the walk and some of the Scottish Islands, and found these fascinating. Together with his descriptions of the troubles and challenges in his life that led to the walk, I found this an honest and raw account that Chris has done a great job putting to page.
The hard work, dedication, and determination that has led him to 'finding himself' is an inspiration. To know it's only half the story makes it even better.
As well as that, it's kept me Googling remote beaches on Scottish islands and working out if I can persuade my family that a holiday miles away from anywhere will be fun!!
An inspirational and entertaining book.
Given I'd started following when Chris was gaining a bit more publicity and help, I believe I'd seen the easier side of the walk and (like Chris!) I wasn't fully prepared for the full realities of the early parts of the walk and some of the Scottish Islands, and found these fascinating. Together with his descriptions of the troubles and challenges in his life that led to the walk, I found this an honest and raw account that Chris has done a great job putting to page.
The hard work, dedication, and determination that has led him to 'finding himself' is an inspiration. To know it's only half the story makes it even better.
As well as that, it's kept me Googling remote beaches on Scottish islands and working out if I can persuade my family that a holiday miles away from anywhere will be fun!!
An inspirational and entertaining book.
April 8, 2024
I’ve read 48% so far and am struggling. It probably helps if you were aware of Chris’s journey at the time and followed him on social media. I wasn’t and hadn’t. From the attractive front cover and the foreword written by Ben Fogle I expected a really well written and gripping adventure. It’s neither of those things! There is barely any description, despite the absolutely stunning surroundings in the highlands of Scotland, plus there is a huge amount of repetition and banal detail. Life’s too short to read poorly written books! But I will continue since I know that he has raised a lot of money for the charity.
2/4/24
Glad I continued reading because the writing did improve; with more description, more detailed accounts of his journeys around the Scottish islands of the Outer Hebrides. It was almost as if as his mood, self esteem and confidence improved his diary became better. It’s a shame the book is so uneven. I think the editing could have been improved for the first half of the book.
If you flicked through and read (the many) passages such as these, you would be forgiven for assuming Jet is a human travelling companion:
‘Over the next few days, Jess and I did our very best to rest up, take our mind off the walk and just drink everything in.’
‘Jet and I both hiding under the storm shelter just thinking, this is just crazy! What an earth we let ourselves in for?!’
It is sad to see that Jet has just died, she was obviously a superb companion. I wonder if the thousands of miles she walked shortened her life? It makes me sad to think that, but then dogs in olden days used to run alongside horse riders as they travelled and hunted. Jet was certainly a working dog, as much as those in the past.
It was a nice surprise to find there are some photos at the end. The whole reading experience was also enhanced by finding Chris‘s Facebook page (now titled Wilderness Family) and a selection of videos which I watched as I read along when he was on Fair Isle etc. All in all I’m glad I persevered and read to the end.
8/4/2
2/4/24
Glad I continued reading because the writing did improve; with more description, more detailed accounts of his journeys around the Scottish islands of the Outer Hebrides. It was almost as if as his mood, self esteem and confidence improved his diary became better. It’s a shame the book is so uneven. I think the editing could have been improved for the first half of the book.
If you flicked through and read (the many) passages such as these, you would be forgiven for assuming Jet is a human travelling companion:
‘Over the next few days, Jess and I did our very best to rest up, take our mind off the walk and just drink everything in.’
‘Jet and I both hiding under the storm shelter just thinking, this is just crazy! What an earth we let ourselves in for?!’
It is sad to see that Jet has just died, she was obviously a superb companion. I wonder if the thousands of miles she walked shortened her life? It makes me sad to think that, but then dogs in olden days used to run alongside horse riders as they travelled and hunted. Jet was certainly a working dog, as much as those in the past.
It was a nice surprise to find there are some photos at the end. The whole reading experience was also enhanced by finding Chris‘s Facebook page (now titled Wilderness Family) and a selection of videos which I watched as I read along when he was on Fair Isle etc. All in all I’m glad I persevered and read to the end.
8/4/2
November 8, 2023
Firstly, I loved every minute of this book. It’s great on so many levels. It’s great it’s a walking guide, as a survival story, as a personal growth journal and as a tourist advert for Scotlands Islands and Highlands. It’s basically the book that The Salt Path wants to be when it grows up.
Anyway, highly recommended. It’s full of wonderful people, stories, facts, nature descriptions, history, culture and geography. And it’s for a good cause.
Anyway, highly recommended. It’s full of wonderful people, stories, facts, nature descriptions, history, culture and geography. And it’s for a good cause.
April 2, 2023
I've been following Chris's journey for some time on social media, but his early days and motivation to start his walk was something I'd missed. Such an inspirational person, looking forward to reading the next book and to follow him as he nears the end of his journey.
June 17, 2023
3.5 stars.
An amazing achievement and inspiring read, however I found some parts repetitive.
An amazing achievement and inspiring read, however I found some parts repetitive.
October 15, 2023
Very heartfelt book about turning one's life about
November 16, 2023
Some wonderful imagery. Found the writing was quite literal at times
December 3, 2023
Inspiring, and my favourite read of 2023.
Army veteran, Chris Lewis, suffering from depression and facing eviction, leaves his apartment in South Wales with only £10 in his pocket. His goal - to turn his life around by walking the entire coast of Britain and her islands and to raise money for a veterans’ charity.
The British coastline with all its indentations and offshore islands is 19,000 miles long, which is almost equivalent to circumnavigating the globe. This book is about the first half of his walk to the Shetlands, north of Scotland. I found myself unable to put it down, reading my Kindle under the bedcovers in the early hours so as not to disturb my wife.
Camping out in all weathers and often with the only most basic of equipment, often in freezing conditions and winds of close to a hundred miles an hour, his endurance and determination are astounding.
Early in the journey he is given a dog, Jet, and they become inseparable. It’s also heartwarming to read about the kindness of strangers. As he continues his journey, word of what he is doing spreads and offers of food and other help increases.
The Scottish Highlands and islands sound incredible - wild and remote, nature untamed. Chris follows the coast at all times despite a frequent lack of a road or path, adding to his challenge. The white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and mountain backdrops of the Hebridean islands sound idyllic - when the sun is shining and a gale not blowing!
Reaching Scotland as winter approaches, winter proves to be hard and he’s looking forward to summer, only to find that is when the you are plagued by mosquitoes.
Being out in nature, his mental health recovers. From living a life of avoiding people and feeling a failure, he becomes a role model, speaking at schools along the way and being interviewed by TV stations from across the world.
This first book covers the first three years of his six year walk and ends in Hildasay, an uninhabited island in the Shetlands where he spends the first Covid lockdown. The second, ‘Hildasay to Home’ comes out in 2024. I can’t wait to read it, though I suspect the second half will be a tad less challenging and maybe a little less exciting as he’ll largely be in much more populated areas with easier terrain. It’ll be interesting to see which he prefers. I suspect it will be the wilderness.
Army veteran, Chris Lewis, suffering from depression and facing eviction, leaves his apartment in South Wales with only £10 in his pocket. His goal - to turn his life around by walking the entire coast of Britain and her islands and to raise money for a veterans’ charity.
The British coastline with all its indentations and offshore islands is 19,000 miles long, which is almost equivalent to circumnavigating the globe. This book is about the first half of his walk to the Shetlands, north of Scotland. I found myself unable to put it down, reading my Kindle under the bedcovers in the early hours so as not to disturb my wife.
Camping out in all weathers and often with the only most basic of equipment, often in freezing conditions and winds of close to a hundred miles an hour, his endurance and determination are astounding.
Early in the journey he is given a dog, Jet, and they become inseparable. It’s also heartwarming to read about the kindness of strangers. As he continues his journey, word of what he is doing spreads and offers of food and other help increases.
The Scottish Highlands and islands sound incredible - wild and remote, nature untamed. Chris follows the coast at all times despite a frequent lack of a road or path, adding to his challenge. The white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and mountain backdrops of the Hebridean islands sound idyllic - when the sun is shining and a gale not blowing!
Reaching Scotland as winter approaches, winter proves to be hard and he’s looking forward to summer, only to find that is when the you are plagued by mosquitoes.
Being out in nature, his mental health recovers. From living a life of avoiding people and feeling a failure, he becomes a role model, speaking at schools along the way and being interviewed by TV stations from across the world.
This first book covers the first three years of his six year walk and ends in Hildasay, an uninhabited island in the Shetlands where he spends the first Covid lockdown. The second, ‘Hildasay to Home’ comes out in 2024. I can’t wait to read it, though I suspect the second half will be a tad less challenging and maybe a little less exciting as he’ll largely be in much more populated areas with easier terrain. It’ll be interesting to see which he prefers. I suspect it will be the wilderness.
December 28, 2023
Former paratrooper Christian Lewis struggled to cope as a single father, working a series of low paid jobs, sinking deeper into debt, feeling a failure and hating the pressures of his life. As he gradually sank into depression, his daughter Caitlin left to start her own life and he decided to start again by walking the whole coastline of the UK and raising money for a Forces charity.
This book was at times inspiring and heartwarming, at other times rather flat and repetitive. Its focus is how Chris himself came to terms with mistakes he’d made in life, learned to understand himself as a person who needs solitude and contact with nature, and found a purpose that had been lacking by raising money for his charity. As a result, the early parts of the book when Chris sets out (and is feeling depressed and angry) tell us little about the places he’s seeing, and tend to be a list of people he meets and equipment he acquires.
Once he reaches Scotland, his growing contentment and sense of achievement mean he looks more outside himself and he then tells us more about the places he sees and his connection with the landscape and the people. These are the best sections, especially when he talks about his wonderful dog Jet with real emotion, and when he recounts their encounters with people living on remote islands who have a wonderful sense of community and welcome him in.
Chris’ physical endurance is amazing and his determination, resilience and honesty are impressive. I don’t feel this book truly did his journey justice though, the style was quite bald and mechanical at times and the accounts of walking were often repetitive. There are some great photos though that helped bring the landscape to life in a way that the narrative didn’t really manage.
This book was at times inspiring and heartwarming, at other times rather flat and repetitive. Its focus is how Chris himself came to terms with mistakes he’d made in life, learned to understand himself as a person who needs solitude and contact with nature, and found a purpose that had been lacking by raising money for his charity. As a result, the early parts of the book when Chris sets out (and is feeling depressed and angry) tell us little about the places he’s seeing, and tend to be a list of people he meets and equipment he acquires.
Once he reaches Scotland, his growing contentment and sense of achievement mean he looks more outside himself and he then tells us more about the places he sees and his connection with the landscape and the people. These are the best sections, especially when he talks about his wonderful dog Jet with real emotion, and when he recounts their encounters with people living on remote islands who have a wonderful sense of community and welcome him in.
Chris’ physical endurance is amazing and his determination, resilience and honesty are impressive. I don’t feel this book truly did his journey justice though, the style was quite bald and mechanical at times and the accounts of walking were often repetitive. There are some great photos though that helped bring the landscape to life in a way that the narrative didn’t really manage.
February 5, 2023
I loved this book, read it in a day. Inspirational and Chris made the west coast of Scotland come alive to me. I met Chris and Jet when they stayed in our Village. A lovely man which comes over in the book. I can’t wait to read about the next section of his walk. No pressure Chris but waiting for book 2.
April 8, 2024
⭐⭐⭐.5
February 11, 2023
I’ve been following Chris since Northern Island and been blown away by the wonderful photos he puts on his FB page. The book is a fantastic read even if you’ve never heard of Chris before. So inspirational to see one man’s mental health journey, from desperate to a place of peace and acceptance. As well as the wonderful, descriptive writing about the UK coastline and, in particular, Scotland.
Chris, you are a true hero (although I know you won’t see yourself as one!). I admire and salute you.
I am very much looking forward to the second half of his magnificent endeavour, whenever that may be.
Chris, you are a true hero (although I know you won’t see yourself as one!). I admire and salute you.
I am very much looking forward to the second half of his magnificent endeavour, whenever that may be.
August 21, 2023
Without any doubt, this is the best book I have ever read! It's an honest account of his travels around the coastline of Britain but it's more than that. He opens up about his mental health struggles and how walking and raising money helped him. It also highlights how helpful and generous people are. I absolutely loved reading every page and really didn't want it to end. I hope he writes another book or books.
April 18, 2024
I wholly admire Chris for his amazing feat of endurance. It has the material to make a great story but the book would have benefited from a decent editor. The plain repetitive language somehow never really managed to convey much sense of emotion even in the toughest bits.
December 23, 2024
First; it’s an a amazing achievement what he did.
However I fondly him quite unlikeable. Abandoned his kid for 6 years - just upped and left without a word and had every excuse to justify it, but basically he got beat up. Then He had custody of the kid and was emotionally neglectful towards her and she’d spend days at her friends and he didn’t really care? ,lane had enough and left home at 16 to go down South no explanation as to why and with who, so he just decided to set off on his own adventure for a few years and abandon her again. No thought of what if she needed him, or needed to come home. I don’t feel like he has any accountability. Yes he’s a veteran but if what 7 years and was in Northern Island? Yet he talks like he’s a seasoned vet if 30 years with several Iraq tours under his belt. I think if he treat and loved his daughter as much as he his dog then he wouldn’t have needed to run away in the first place. I found it self indulgent, whiney at times, I didn’t really enjoy his writing style. It glossed over so much stuff we wanted to read about, became repetitive and I feel at times a little conceited. He bangs on about how much he loves his daughter but in reality showed her very little of this and was seriously lacking as a parent. Yes he was a single parent, but so are many others. With his debt, on/off relationship with parents etc, emotional neglect of his child, his partner leaving without a word, allegations she made against him etc I do wonder if there is something he’s missing out of the story. Like drug abuse and or anger issues perhaps. He does look very old and ema Oates before he even started off on his walk, and I do wonder what he was really running away from. I don’t know but I do feel like he’s very much a ‘poor me’ and ‘it’s everyone else’s fault’. He does redeem himself somewhat on his walk, no consolation to his daughter I expect.
If he was more likeable and had a ghost writer this could have been amazing.
However I fondly him quite unlikeable. Abandoned his kid for 6 years - just upped and left without a word and had every excuse to justify it, but basically he got beat up. Then He had custody of the kid and was emotionally neglectful towards her and she’d spend days at her friends and he didn’t really care? ,lane had enough and left home at 16 to go down South no explanation as to why and with who, so he just decided to set off on his own adventure for a few years and abandon her again. No thought of what if she needed him, or needed to come home. I don’t feel like he has any accountability. Yes he’s a veteran but if what 7 years and was in Northern Island? Yet he talks like he’s a seasoned vet if 30 years with several Iraq tours under his belt. I think if he treat and loved his daughter as much as he his dog then he wouldn’t have needed to run away in the first place. I found it self indulgent, whiney at times, I didn’t really enjoy his writing style. It glossed over so much stuff we wanted to read about, became repetitive and I feel at times a little conceited. He bangs on about how much he loves his daughter but in reality showed her very little of this and was seriously lacking as a parent. Yes he was a single parent, but so are many others. With his debt, on/off relationship with parents etc, emotional neglect of his child, his partner leaving without a word, allegations she made against him etc I do wonder if there is something he’s missing out of the story. Like drug abuse and or anger issues perhaps. He does look very old and ema Oates before he even started off on his walk, and I do wonder what he was really running away from. I don’t know but I do feel like he’s very much a ‘poor me’ and ‘it’s everyone else’s fault’. He does redeem himself somewhat on his walk, no consolation to his daughter I expect.
If he was more likeable and had a ghost writer this could have been amazing.
February 26, 2023
If I could give this book more than 5 stars I would - my absolute favourite read for many many months. Chris and his dog Jet feature in this inspirational book about one man’s physical and mental journey in life. For the last 5yrs he has made it his mission to walk the entire British coastline, raising funds for his chosen charity, and this book tells of the first part of his journey.
It is truly wonderful, moving, funny, sad and scary. I follow him on FB and Insta and feel like I am part of his journey. As I write this he is now in the southwest and heading to Cornwall
Do yourself a favour - read this book and be appreciative of the life you lead.
It is truly wonderful, moving, funny, sad and scary. I follow him on FB and Insta and feel like I am part of his journey. As I write this he is now in the southwest and heading to Cornwall
Do yourself a favour - read this book and be appreciative of the life you lead.
February 8, 2023
Chris and Jets big adventure.
Having followed Chris and Jet since their time on Hildasay I was curious about how he had started and how he had managed. Well this book is amazing in its honesty and the detail of Chris's journey from the start. I'm overwhelmed with admiration for his incredible determination. I'm also looking forward to the next instalment!
Having followed Chris and Jet since their time on Hildasay I was curious about how he had started and how he had managed. Well this book is amazing in its honesty and the detail of Chris's journey from the start. I'm overwhelmed with admiration for his incredible determination. I'm also looking forward to the next instalment!
May 9, 2025
I’d not followed Chris’ walk in ‘real time’ and knew nothing about him. This was an enjoyable read; he was refreshingly honest about his relationship with his daughter and reasons for starting the walk.
June 22, 2025
In his pre-odyssey life the author clearly struggled with things most of us just have to get on with. But it is important to delve a little deeper. Fight or flight is within our basic DNA. Both are means of survival. The latter served to liberate Chris Lewis from deep depression and soothe his troubled mind. In truth, walking the UK coastline presented this man with arduous challenges most people will never face. But he didn't falter or fail. Moreover, people rallied to him, thus confirming his worth as an inspiring individual. And inspiring... he is. Those of us with long distance trail experience in bleak terrain and inclement weather, will have a small inkling of what Chris Lewis went through. But to do it day after day. Month after month. Year after year. With only basic equipment and little food. Dependant on the generosity of genuine well wishers. That takes more than most of us are ever prepared to sacrifice. This book is a ringing endorsement of the human spirit, of the humanity of people unknown to us, of walking, and it's powerful contribution to our physical and mental well-being.
December 14, 2023
Christian walked the entire coastline of the United Kingdom, on a whim. Or more accurately: out of desperation. If he hadn’t done so (or something similar) he may have ended up as another sad statistic among ex-servicemen. Walking the coastline takes years, but to do so with no kit worth talking of, no money (literally zero money), and no support of any sort, is an act of madness - but sometimes it takes acts of madness to turn around a failing life. To do the walk to raise funds for an armed forces charity is commendable - but the idea only came to him after he started walking, and the charity had no idea what he was doing. In a way that made it even more special. But Christian is determined, if nothing else. Who else would eat out of bins in to keep the walk going? Not many, I am sure…
When I was in the army, I had many colleagues who had been highly successful and well respected when they were in the service, but had gone out to nothing and headed downhill from there, often ending up homeless and on the streets. Of those who had gone into decline, those who did best were the ones who rejoined and ending up staying for life. Christian’s stories about the disgusting things that happened to him in South Wales after leaving the army (including theft, vandalism and violence) should help people to understand why servicemen and women find it hard to relate to the civilian world when they rejoin it.
For me, the acid test of a travel book is whether (a) I feel like I am there, and (b) I wish I was there. For the western isles of Scotland, the author hits the mark on both counts. But for the rest of the book / journey - not always. Obviously, the western isles have a huge advantage over the rest of the world in terms of (attractive) stunning nature and (attractive) wonderful people. Who wouldn’t want to be there?! But perhaps Christian’s weaknesses as a writer come through more when the place is less able to induce awe? One problem he has is how to fit it all into a book: a problem I don’t think he ever solved. But for a non-writer to produce this book is another huge achievement on top of an almost unbelievable achievement.
Some reviewers found the book to be overly repetitive and plodding. I can see why as every day is pretty much: get up, break camp, walk, make camp. But that was the nature of the beast and there is no getting away from that. The fact that the author didn’t give up through boredom is almost as impressive as him not giving up from exhaustion and starvation. Don’t read this book expecting it to be the best travel / walking / adventure book ever. It’s not. But instead, read it as a story of tenacity, kindness and hope. A book that will inspire you to do more. What else can you ask for?
When I was in the army, I had many colleagues who had been highly successful and well respected when they were in the service, but had gone out to nothing and headed downhill from there, often ending up homeless and on the streets. Of those who had gone into decline, those who did best were the ones who rejoined and ending up staying for life. Christian’s stories about the disgusting things that happened to him in South Wales after leaving the army (including theft, vandalism and violence) should help people to understand why servicemen and women find it hard to relate to the civilian world when they rejoin it.
For me, the acid test of a travel book is whether (a) I feel like I am there, and (b) I wish I was there. For the western isles of Scotland, the author hits the mark on both counts. But for the rest of the book / journey - not always. Obviously, the western isles have a huge advantage over the rest of the world in terms of (attractive) stunning nature and (attractive) wonderful people. Who wouldn’t want to be there?! But perhaps Christian’s weaknesses as a writer come through more when the place is less able to induce awe? One problem he has is how to fit it all into a book: a problem I don’t think he ever solved. But for a non-writer to produce this book is another huge achievement on top of an almost unbelievable achievement.
Some reviewers found the book to be overly repetitive and plodding. I can see why as every day is pretty much: get up, break camp, walk, make camp. But that was the nature of the beast and there is no getting away from that. The fact that the author didn’t give up through boredom is almost as impressive as him not giving up from exhaustion and starvation. Don’t read this book expecting it to be the best travel / walking / adventure book ever. It’s not. But instead, read it as a story of tenacity, kindness and hope. A book that will inspire you to do more. What else can you ask for?
November 30, 2023
Genre - Autobiography
Emotional rating - 😬
Speed and ease to read - 🏃🏾♀️🏃🏾♀️🏃🏾♀️
Makes you think about a bigger topic - No
Recommend the book - ✔
▪️Synopsis
Ex-paratrooper Christian Lewis had hit rock bottom, suffering with depression so severe he would shut himself in his bedroom for weeks. Then while surfing, he cast his eyes along the coastline and realized it was the only place he really wanted to be.
Then, Chris made an impulsive decision. He set himself a challenge: to walk the entire coastline of the UK for the veteran charity SSAFA. He gave himself a few days to rustle up a tent and walking boots, then left for good with just a tenner in his pocket and two days’ worth of food.
Almost six years later, Chris has navigated the West Coast, Northern Ireland, the hard-rock cliffs of Scotland and the perimeters of the Scottish Islands. Happiness and hope was just around the corner . . .
▪️ How I found the book
I listened to this book on audiobook and it was an easy listen with Chris narrating his story, However towards the end it did feel repetitive. This is very similar to 'The Salt Path' that I really enjoyed and I felt that was a better book with the descriptions, making you think and the emotional impact.
When Chris hit rock bottom he decided to walk the UK coastline. He describes the walk, the difficulties and the generosity of the people that he met. He also aquires a dog half way through the walk and his love for Jet shines through.
During the walk he describes his search for self worth and in the end has a sense of pride, respect, happiness and has found meaning for his life. It is a good book but i would recommend 'The salt path' over this one.
Emotional rating - 😬
Speed and ease to read - 🏃🏾♀️🏃🏾♀️🏃🏾♀️
Makes you think about a bigger topic - No
Recommend the book - ✔
▪️Synopsis
Ex-paratrooper Christian Lewis had hit rock bottom, suffering with depression so severe he would shut himself in his bedroom for weeks. Then while surfing, he cast his eyes along the coastline and realized it was the only place he really wanted to be.
Then, Chris made an impulsive decision. He set himself a challenge: to walk the entire coastline of the UK for the veteran charity SSAFA. He gave himself a few days to rustle up a tent and walking boots, then left for good with just a tenner in his pocket and two days’ worth of food.
Almost six years later, Chris has navigated the West Coast, Northern Ireland, the hard-rock cliffs of Scotland and the perimeters of the Scottish Islands. Happiness and hope was just around the corner . . .
▪️ How I found the book
I listened to this book on audiobook and it was an easy listen with Chris narrating his story, However towards the end it did feel repetitive. This is very similar to 'The Salt Path' that I really enjoyed and I felt that was a better book with the descriptions, making you think and the emotional impact.
When Chris hit rock bottom he decided to walk the UK coastline. He describes the walk, the difficulties and the generosity of the people that he met. He also aquires a dog half way through the walk and his love for Jet shines through.
During the walk he describes his search for self worth and in the end has a sense of pride, respect, happiness and has found meaning for his life. It is a good book but i would recommend 'The salt path' over this one.
February 16, 2025
I’m a bit mixed on this book. There is no question that what Christian Lewis has achieved by walking the coastline of Britain is remarkable and it’s impossible not to love Jet the dog and his literary appearances. However I did feel the book might have benefited a little more from some further editing to make it flow better. I wanted more information about the places themselves and more descriptions of the locations to help picture the scene. That being said I very much hope to read the next book at some point in the future.
Read
January 12, 2024I decided not to rate this book as as much as I enjoy it (fair point I read it as a journal/diary and not a book) I just don’t understand how walking around relying on other people for food and shelter will help someone or anyone for that matter. Raising money for charity is all good and fun (even if I have my doubts on who is spending those and by that I mean the charity CEO and all the office staff) but charity starts at home! Your child or children!
I would love to take off one day, but I have bills to pay! And yes, I have an ex Para in my house, so a little insight into that world too, even if our one went to Afghanistan not Ireland.
But still!
Sorry to be such a negative person .. must be my age ;)
Loved your kindness and love for animals! So yeah, thank you for a good read! Good luck!
I would love to take off one day, but I have bills to pay! And yes, I have an ex Para in my house, so a little insight into that world too, even if our one went to Afghanistan not Ireland.
But still!
Sorry to be such a negative person .. must be my age ;)
Loved your kindness and love for animals! So yeah, thank you for a good read! Good luck!
April 7, 2024
A 3.5* listen on Audible. Narration sometimes a little off kilter, but nevertheless seems a very honest and sincere account. His relationship with his dog, Jet, is extremely heartwarming.
However, sometimes I felt that I was given information, but then it wasn’t followed up on (unless I missed it), but the parts in the Hebrides (I think) where his boots aren’t up to the job and we don’t hear anymore about them. Also, at the start how much money he had/didn’t have was mentioned quite a lot but less so towards the end. Overall, an interesting listen and I will listen to the sequel at some point.
However, sometimes I felt that I was given information, but then it wasn’t followed up on (unless I missed it), but the parts in the Hebrides (I think) where his boots aren’t up to the job and we don’t hear anymore about them. Also, at the start how much money he had/didn’t have was mentioned quite a lot but less so towards the end. Overall, an interesting listen and I will listen to the sequel at some point.
April 6, 2024
There are some take aways from this book: stamina to turn one's life around. It delivers in that regard, finding hope.
What I missed in this book was: an elevated writing style. This is more of a travel book.
What I found irritating: the hype around PR.
What I would have liked to see: more depth from the conversations with the people met on the path. For instance, there was one elderly lady who chatted with the other showing pictures and all. That would have been nice to detail. Or nice to read.
2 stars for the story. Writing style needs work.
What I missed in this book was: an elevated writing style. This is more of a travel book.
What I found irritating: the hype around PR.
What I would have liked to see: more depth from the conversations with the people met on the path. For instance, there was one elderly lady who chatted with the other showing pictures and all. That would have been nice to detail. Or nice to read.
2 stars for the story. Writing style needs work.
December 21, 2023
This book is about a truly extraordinary feat and I loved hearing so much about the UK coastline, it’s inspired me to try to visit some of the northern islands. Had to knock a star off as it’s written in a very basic way and sometimes comes across a little bit ‘holier than thou’ although given what he did was so impressive I’ll let him off a bit on that! Overall a very enjoyable read.
June 11, 2023
First of many hay festival discoveries and no better place to read it than while wild camping on a 35 mile overnight hike (despite making it look a bit miniscule in comparison). An amazing book and hugely inspiring guy
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