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Camino de Santiago In 20 Days
Funny, touching, and inspiring! A book about really walking the Camino de Santiago!
Perhaps it was the onset of middle-age or just too much diet cola, but in the Spring of 2010, Canadian boy, Randall St. Germain felt called to take on the 800 kilometer, or 500 mile Camino de Santiago pilgrimage from St. Jean Pied de Port, France to Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
Seriously, what ensued was a dedication to his mother, a personal challenge, and a journey of cultural and historical enlightenment. A million footsteps, and a few pounds of gauze and tape later, he arrived in Santiago de Compostela, with a better understanding of himself -- and a newfound familiarity with snoring and flatulent pilgrims!
Join St. Germain on his adventure in Camino de Santiago In 20 Days, an irreverently chuckle-inducing look at one man's attempt at the famed walk as he confronts apocalyptic weather, snarling dogs, epic blisters, an exhausted body, and his greatest paranoia in life--bed bugs. Along with his humorous reflections, there is practical insight into how he successfully prepared, packed, and then walked across the entire French Way in 20 days -- and in doing so, pushed far beyond his personal comfort zone.
Never to be included on the final list of Pulitzer Prize nominees, or in Oprah's Book Club, Camino de Santiago in 20 Days is not your granddaddy's Camino book, either. One word of caution: Pilgrim Discretion is Advised.
Perhaps it was the onset of middle-age or just too much diet cola, but in the Spring of 2010, Canadian boy, Randall St. Germain felt called to take on the 800 kilometer, or 500 mile Camino de Santiago pilgrimage from St. Jean Pied de Port, France to Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
Seriously, what ensued was a dedication to his mother, a personal challenge, and a journey of cultural and historical enlightenment. A million footsteps, and a few pounds of gauze and tape later, he arrived in Santiago de Compostela, with a better understanding of himself -- and a newfound familiarity with snoring and flatulent pilgrims!
Join St. Germain on his adventure in Camino de Santiago In 20 Days, an irreverently chuckle-inducing look at one man's attempt at the famed walk as he confronts apocalyptic weather, snarling dogs, epic blisters, an exhausted body, and his greatest paranoia in life--bed bugs. Along with his humorous reflections, there is practical insight into how he successfully prepared, packed, and then walked across the entire French Way in 20 days -- and in doing so, pushed far beyond his personal comfort zone.
Never to be included on the final list of Pulitzer Prize nominees, or in Oprah's Book Club, Camino de Santiago in 20 Days is not your granddaddy's Camino book, either. One word of caution: Pilgrim Discretion is Advised.
- GenresTravelNonfictionSpain
224 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 17, 2013
OK, I really don't like to beat up any author. As an (unpublished) writer myself, I truly get the massive size of the chunk of soul that resides between the two covers of every book. But, my reader self regularly relies on the honest and insightful reviews of others - so I'm putting on my big girl panties and paying it forward.
I'm about 99% sure this book was self-published. As I closed the back cover, I wanted to go hug a publisher. And, my hope that a real publisher will accept my future manuscript increased a hundredfold. Both readers and writers need them. I'm fairly certain that if Randall could have persuaded some publisher to work with him, they would have surely done the following -
>> Polished up the writing (that hovered just above and below mediocre)
>> Saved readers from the obnoxious overuse of two irritating words - "Coke Light" (my button wore out somewhere around the 25th push)
>> Stopped Randall's inner "dude" from escaping (saving all of us non-"dudes" from references to cleavage, penises, "pretty women" and taking a dump)
>> Removed all unnecessary negativity (unless it's helpful, save it for the dude sessions)
>> Revamped all the resulting gaps with way more emotional and spiritual insight (he's got it in him, because I saw a peek in the very last chapter)
Here are a few quotes to lend some justification to my above critique:
"Many pilgrims spend their solitude on the Camino with religious or spiritual thoughts, while others take advantage of the silence to meditate. However, at that moment, my thoughts were with my penis."
"For a brief moment, I watched crumbs fall off the pastry, right into her ample cleavage. Dressed the way she was, in a leather jacket, a tight red sweater, and jeans, there was no doubt she was a tourist, and certainly not a pilgrim. Maybe it was because I didn't go out at night, but to that point, I hadn't seen much cleavage along the Camino. This woman sure made up for it."
And, here's the one that flung me off the edge and pretty much sent me to the Land of Dislike. After witnessing a group of teenage hoodlums rough up an elderly man while his wife stood by yelling helplessly, Randall had this to say (and NOT do):
"The elderly woman was left standing alone on the bridge. It was a crazy sight, too much for my tired mind to handle. The old woman wasn't hurt, and there wasn't anything I could do anyway, so I did what I did best - I kept walking."
I'm about 99% sure this book was self-published. As I closed the back cover, I wanted to go hug a publisher. And, my hope that a real publisher will accept my future manuscript increased a hundredfold. Both readers and writers need them. I'm fairly certain that if Randall could have persuaded some publisher to work with him, they would have surely done the following -
>> Polished up the writing (that hovered just above and below mediocre)
>> Saved readers from the obnoxious overuse of two irritating words - "Coke Light" (my button wore out somewhere around the 25th push)
>> Stopped Randall's inner "dude" from escaping (saving all of us non-"dudes" from references to cleavage, penises, "pretty women" and taking a dump)
>> Removed all unnecessary negativity (unless it's helpful, save it for the dude sessions)
>> Revamped all the resulting gaps with way more emotional and spiritual insight (he's got it in him, because I saw a peek in the very last chapter)
Here are a few quotes to lend some justification to my above critique:
"Many pilgrims spend their solitude on the Camino with religious or spiritual thoughts, while others take advantage of the silence to meditate. However, at that moment, my thoughts were with my penis."
"For a brief moment, I watched crumbs fall off the pastry, right into her ample cleavage. Dressed the way she was, in a leather jacket, a tight red sweater, and jeans, there was no doubt she was a tourist, and certainly not a pilgrim. Maybe it was because I didn't go out at night, but to that point, I hadn't seen much cleavage along the Camino. This woman sure made up for it."
And, here's the one that flung me off the edge and pretty much sent me to the Land of Dislike. After witnessing a group of teenage hoodlums rough up an elderly man while his wife stood by yelling helplessly, Randall had this to say (and NOT do):
"The elderly woman was left standing alone on the bridge. It was a crazy sight, too much for my tired mind to handle. The old woman wasn't hurt, and there wasn't anything I could do anyway, so I did what I did best - I kept walking."
June 22, 2012
I applaud Randall St. Germain's courage in traveling alone ---walking the entire French Way with a heavy back pack --(filled with a tent he didn't use --clothes- wet socks often- needed supplies for blisters...etc.), and his commitment in writing this book....his FIRST!!! He did an job excellent sharing about his observations of villages, Cathedral's, Monuments, Art, the Ponferrada Castle, A former monastery which became an upscale Hotel, and the Old City. He shared that his favorite sculpture was a bearded shepherd with arms stretched to the heavens --(this was in the San Francisco Jardin area with beautiful gardens and fountains).
He visited bars and cafes which allowed smoking -- He faced washroom issues (as in "lack of washrooms") --He lost sleep due to snoring and farting of others. He made 'walking' friends. He enjoyed talking to pretty woman. (of course --the guy's not crazy).....NOT even crazy for WALKING 520 miles in 20 days. Some people 'might' think 'its crazy'.... (I say its inspiring!)
Randall's drink of choice was ***COKE LIGHT***. (no, I didn't count how many he had), but for a one-time special treat he once tried a Kaz Apple Drink. Other favorite foods were: Magnum ice cream chocolate, and mixed nuts. (what's not to like?)
I laughed silly when an old woman yelled at him to 'GET OUT' (in Spanish), when he tried to open up an old creaking Church door--no longer in use- when Mass was in session.
Rain-wind-chilly days: Randall kept walking ---(with painful blisters on his toes and heals).
I couldn't help but wonder at the end of the book if Randall ever kept in contact with anyone he met on the trail during those 20 days.
but....One of the MOST touching pages of the entire book is the small page with 9 words: "For My Mother...I think of You Every Day".
That 'special' page allowed me, (as the reader), to develop a deeper relationship with the 'human' side of Randall. I felt his heart --his pain- his goodness. I also felt his desire to be outlandish, (be willing to take this journey he did)-- -step outside the box of routine life -deepen his personal awareness of unlimited possibilities --and rejoice!
He said himself..."His mother would be proud". Randall can be proud too!
NOTE: THIS is not the SAME as every OTHER book on the market (related subjects maybe) as the next guy who takes a 'journey'.
"A Walk In the Woods" ..........is a 'Walk in the Woods"..........
"Camino De Santiago In 20 Days...MY Way on the Way of St. James" by Randall St. Germain is HIS 'wonderful' story! (a memoir not to get lost in the shuffle).
He visited bars and cafes which allowed smoking -- He faced washroom issues (as in "lack of washrooms") --He lost sleep due to snoring and farting of others. He made 'walking' friends. He enjoyed talking to pretty woman. (of course --the guy's not crazy).....NOT even crazy for WALKING 520 miles in 20 days. Some people 'might' think 'its crazy'.... (I say its inspiring!)
Randall's drink of choice was ***COKE LIGHT***. (no, I didn't count how many he had), but for a one-time special treat he once tried a Kaz Apple Drink. Other favorite foods were: Magnum ice cream chocolate, and mixed nuts. (what's not to like?)
I laughed silly when an old woman yelled at him to 'GET OUT' (in Spanish), when he tried to open up an old creaking Church door--no longer in use- when Mass was in session.
Rain-wind-chilly days: Randall kept walking ---(with painful blisters on his toes and heals).
I couldn't help but wonder at the end of the book if Randall ever kept in contact with anyone he met on the trail during those 20 days.
but....One of the MOST touching pages of the entire book is the small page with 9 words: "For My Mother...I think of You Every Day".
That 'special' page allowed me, (as the reader), to develop a deeper relationship with the 'human' side of Randall. I felt his heart --his pain- his goodness. I also felt his desire to be outlandish, (be willing to take this journey he did)-- -step outside the box of routine life -deepen his personal awareness of unlimited possibilities --and rejoice!
He said himself..."His mother would be proud". Randall can be proud too!
NOTE: THIS is not the SAME as every OTHER book on the market (related subjects maybe) as the next guy who takes a 'journey'.
"A Walk In the Woods" ..........is a 'Walk in the Woods"..........
"Camino De Santiago In 20 Days...MY Way on the Way of St. James" by Randall St. Germain is HIS 'wonderful' story! (a memoir not to get lost in the shuffle).
May 30, 2012
I received this book as part of a Goodreads give-away.
Reading a book on pilgrimages or travel would not really be my thing to be honest. But I must admit once I started reading Camino de Santiago I could not put it down and it left me hungry for a sequel. It also made me want to go do the walk or part of it. I could see the whole journey through his eyes; I saw the countryside, smelt the smells and heard the sounds that he wrote about. It was an exciting book to read and I had to give myself a nudge to remember that it was a factual book. This made it all the more interesting because it was written in a warts-and-all style. It was obviously a personal journey for him and it was a pleasure to share in his experiences.
Reading a book on pilgrimages or travel would not really be my thing to be honest. But I must admit once I started reading Camino de Santiago I could not put it down and it left me hungry for a sequel. It also made me want to go do the walk or part of it. I could see the whole journey through his eyes; I saw the countryside, smelt the smells and heard the sounds that he wrote about. It was an exciting book to read and I had to give myself a nudge to remember that it was a factual book. This made it all the more interesting because it was written in a warts-and-all style. It was obviously a personal journey for him and it was a pleasure to share in his experiences.
November 5, 2012
After having read 'almost everything' about El Camino in Hungarian (my native language), I turned my attention to English sources. First, I have found some very good forums and later Randall's blog, too. I enjoyed the reading and especially his very good photos which map and mark all the way, showing both nature and historical monuments. Since Randall frequently referred to his book, I bought it and even haven't found further photos in the book, I didn't regret the buy at all, I read the book all in the same breath. In almost reporting style, he expressed his deepest personal feelings.
I don't suggest the book to those who want to read about spiritual experience of the Camino, read then Paolo Coellho's or Shirley MacLaine's book instead. This isn't a book you'll carry with you to know which albergue has wifi, kitchen, etc., or how much does it cost. This is a book you have to read before your start your own way to give you impression about challenges and feelings you will meet on the Camino. But even you don't plan to go, you will be drawn into the action anyway, feeling like being there, too.
Thanks a lot, Randall, for your impressive book and especially for its unexpected and touching introductory part!
I don't suggest the book to those who want to read about spiritual experience of the Camino, read then Paolo Coellho's or Shirley MacLaine's book instead. This isn't a book you'll carry with you to know which albergue has wifi, kitchen, etc., or how much does it cost. This is a book you have to read before your start your own way to give you impression about challenges and feelings you will meet on the Camino. But even you don't plan to go, you will be drawn into the action anyway, feeling like being there, too.
Thanks a lot, Randall, for your impressive book and especially for its unexpected and touching introductory part!
July 30, 2013
Goodreads first reads... I finally got around to reading this - and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I thought that after a few days, the anecdotal stories may get a little similar - but no! I don't think this walk would be for me - some of the albergues sounded hideous and I would definitely budget for private rooms if I ever undertook such a trip! I was waiting for a bed-bug incident throughout... but fortunately no such event occurred thank goodness.
Randall's account was interesting and made me both smile and cringe at different times.
Congratulations on a successful camino and a lovely account of it.
I thought that after a few days, the anecdotal stories may get a little similar - but no! I don't think this walk would be for me - some of the albergues sounded hideous and I would definitely budget for private rooms if I ever undertook such a trip! I was waiting for a bed-bug incident throughout... but fortunately no such event occurred thank goodness.
Randall's account was interesting and made me both smile and cringe at different times.
Congratulations on a successful camino and a lovely account of it.
June 27, 2012
When first deciding how to rate this book, I was originally going to give it a 3. It is a good solid book, although the sentences are short and choppy, and the paragraphs skip from topic to topic like a bee in a garden. However, as I continued thinking, I am truly impressed by this book. The sentences switch topics so often because it is a relative stream of consciousness in which the author has bravely shared a very personal experience. And I mean, Shared - with a capital S. At least a fifth of the book is a saga of blisters, and honestly (I don't know how) but its very interesting. All of the things most other people may leave out while trying to glorify their experience (how many Coke Lites were purchased and when exactly a dump had to be taken) are left in. And frankly, its these little things that make up much of a long solo journey like this. I appreciate the author's willingness to be so personal, to tell it like it is.
Speaking of which, Mr. St. Germain is rather judgmental, and it's pretty hilarious. :-) Working with passive aggressive people every day has made me tired of trying to guess what they are thinking... you know they're judging you on something! Here it was fun to have it told how it is. Very refreshing. And like I said, good for a few chuckles!
I am intrigued by this journey and can see it being the inspiration for others to partake in the Camino. I'm definitely going to lend this book to my friends and family and see if anyone shares an interest as well...
Thanks First-Reads for giving me the opportunity to read this book!
Speaking of which, Mr. St. Germain is rather judgmental, and it's pretty hilarious. :-) Working with passive aggressive people every day has made me tired of trying to guess what they are thinking... you know they're judging you on something! Here it was fun to have it told how it is. Very refreshing. And like I said, good for a few chuckles!
I am intrigued by this journey and can see it being the inspiration for others to partake in the Camino. I'm definitely going to lend this book to my friends and family and see if anyone shares an interest as well...
Thanks First-Reads for giving me the opportunity to read this book!
May 16, 2013
A personal and strong story line that pulls the reader through the book: Before you consider my review, take two things into account: I do not normally write online reviews, yet I will read almost anything.Yes I'm an avid reader and do enjoy being transported by a good read/novel.
Have always had a preference to non-fiction; from real crime stories, and yes, self-help stuff to philosophy to biographies/autobiographies to just about anything that makes me think and visualize...Basically I love to see what makes people tick. I enjoy being able to identify with the character's human flaws and frailties...I like flaws..(yeh I think they make things interesting.)
As for Randall St.Germain's Camino De Santiago In 20 Days...I was kept riveted by a combination of learning about someone's new adventure (when faced by a personal tragedy/loss) This was written with a bit of a flare for the romance...that feeling of excitement and mystery associated with the unknown and laced with good old-fashioned *honest* humour. He made me chuckle at various points because he made the mundane sound amusing. This mix makes for an enjoyable ride that kept me enthralled throughout the book...and it succeeds to entertain.
Beyond that, Randall St.Germain can write and has a gift to say it like it is...To be able to poke fun at himself during his adventure - now that's something I can get on board with. :)
A book that still resonates days after finishing it is definitely worth 5 stars.
Have always had a preference to non-fiction; from real crime stories, and yes, self-help stuff to philosophy to biographies/autobiographies to just about anything that makes me think and visualize...Basically I love to see what makes people tick. I enjoy being able to identify with the character's human flaws and frailties...I like flaws..(yeh I think they make things interesting.)
As for Randall St.Germain's Camino De Santiago In 20 Days...I was kept riveted by a combination of learning about someone's new adventure (when faced by a personal tragedy/loss) This was written with a bit of a flare for the romance...that feeling of excitement and mystery associated with the unknown and laced with good old-fashioned *honest* humour. He made me chuckle at various points because he made the mundane sound amusing. This mix makes for an enjoyable ride that kept me enthralled throughout the book...and it succeeds to entertain.
Beyond that, Randall St.Germain can write and has a gift to say it like it is...To be able to poke fun at himself during his adventure - now that's something I can get on board with. :)
A book that still resonates days after finishing it is definitely worth 5 stars.
June 10, 2012
A witty and amusing story of determination and amazing willpower. This book follows the author's journey along the Camino de Santiago through all the weather Spain could throw at him. Along the way we get to meet a host of weird and wonderful characters as well as getting an insight into some of the historic villages, towns and cities the Camino passes through. Although I didn't set out with the goal of reading this book in a certain number of days, I found that like the author and his quest to finish the Camino in 20 days, once I started reading it I couldn't stop. It was a case of just one more chapter, again and again, late into the night. I thought this was a great read. One thing though, I'd love to see an illustrated version showing us some of the many photographs the author took along the way.
Read
August 11, 2012Pragmatic view of the Camino - good tips on preparation. He shares his account of walking the Camino in 20 days. Style is a matter-of-fact account of his day-to-day experience as he walks the Camino. His objective – to complete the near 800 km from St. Jean Pied de Port, France, west to Santiago de Compostela, Spain in 20 days, following the way of Saint James. He averaged walking 40 kms daily – a considerable achievement as he crossed the Pyrenees and battled with the weather. I was inspired to read his story while I prepared to walk the Camino myself. While I plan to allow 40 days for my Camino, his account of the walk gives me a glimpse into what it is like to do this ancient pilgrimage.
May 7, 2013
Thank you Mr. St. Germain and Goodreads for sending me this book.
I love autobiographies....especially travel-related. How refreshing it is to read about Mr. St. Germain's experiences on his "Camino" journey without being burdened with any of his spiritual self-awareness...! At first when I noticed there were not many photos...I worried that it would a bit dull (after all..this is a travel "experience" through some beautiful areas of our world!). I was captivated from the beginning. I enjoyed his dry sense of humor...like traveling along with your brother or close "guy" friend. Wonderful descriptions and details. I have suggested this book to several friends who have been interested in doing the Camino De Santiago journey! Thank you.
I love autobiographies....especially travel-related. How refreshing it is to read about Mr. St. Germain's experiences on his "Camino" journey without being burdened with any of his spiritual self-awareness...! At first when I noticed there were not many photos...I worried that it would a bit dull (after all..this is a travel "experience" through some beautiful areas of our world!). I was captivated from the beginning. I enjoyed his dry sense of humor...like traveling along with your brother or close "guy" friend. Wonderful descriptions and details. I have suggested this book to several friends who have been interested in doing the Camino De Santiago journey! Thank you.
April 2, 2012
Having walked part of the Camino de Santiago in June 2011, I was eager to learn more about the remainder of the road. I discovered Randall on Twitter and found out he had written a book about his time on the Camino. While there are many many books about the French Way, the difference is Randall completed this in an incredible 20 days. An amazing thing to do :) I read it cover to cover within a week.
It is an honest account of the authors' time in Spain from the people he meets, the weather, right through to his times in various hostels.
Definitely is worth the read.
It is an honest account of the authors' time in Spain from the people he meets, the weather, right through to his times in various hostels.
Definitely is worth the read.
May 4, 2012
I've always wanted to take this journey yet never really thought of the physical hardship and the language barriers until reading this book. Although very descriptive I would have liked to see some of the 3000 photos this author captured while on his Camino. All in all, it's a good book for those who are planning to take this journey. It's an educational book on how to prepare with good lessons on what not to do. However, I wouldn't recommend it for those who are looking for spiritual insight as this was a private journey the author took for his mother. What an amazing experience!
April 24, 2012
I like almost any book about where someone takes the initiative to walk large distances which is what attracted me to this First Reads book. I had never heard of the Camino so it was interesting to learn about it. I wish there had been some maps to better document the route as that always helps me. This sounded like a lonely walk for Randall as I had hoped that he would have made some more connections with fellow walkers but he was very determined to do it in a short amount of time. All in all, I enjoyed it.
June 26, 2012
Great book. Only heard about the Camino recently, then received this book! maybe it means I have to walk it some day myself!
As Randall says, this isn't a literary work but IT is a beautifully written book. Honest and from the heart, descriptive and funny at times. Couldn't put it down and thoroughly enjoyed. My only disappointment was that I'd have loved to see some photos included but can imagine that this probably incurs a price increase.
Can't wait for his next stroll around the countryside!
As Randall says, this isn't a literary work but IT is a beautifully written book. Honest and from the heart, descriptive and funny at times. Couldn't put it down and thoroughly enjoyed. My only disappointment was that I'd have loved to see some photos included but can imagine that this probably incurs a price increase.
Can't wait for his next stroll around the countryside!
February 6, 2013
I believe I read in the prologue that the author wrote and rewrote this book quite a bit, paring it down to just his own experience.
In a way, I wish he had left more of that other material in - the book is quite interesting and I like it, but if feels more like a daily diary to prove he was there, much like the stamps for his "passport" along the way.
I think it could have been better served by leaving in some more material of a less concrete nature - what about the spiritual side of the journey?
But then again, I am a driven, accomplishment-oriented person myself, so I can understand wanting to work quickly through something to have it done and have the sense of accomplishment that goes with that.
I also deeply relate to his loss of his mother, as I lost my own to cancer in September, under similar circumstances to the author except that my mother was only 66. She had her birthday 4 days before she died in Palliative Care.
Perhaps in a way, that is why his Camino doesn't sound like his own spiritual journey - perhaps it was more of a journey in her memory, something that he felt he had to do to honor her, and if so, that makes it all the more special.
In a way, I wish he had left more of that other material in - the book is quite interesting and I like it, but if feels more like a daily diary to prove he was there, much like the stamps for his "passport" along the way.
I think it could have been better served by leaving in some more material of a less concrete nature - what about the spiritual side of the journey?
But then again, I am a driven, accomplishment-oriented person myself, so I can understand wanting to work quickly through something to have it done and have the sense of accomplishment that goes with that.
I also deeply relate to his loss of his mother, as I lost my own to cancer in September, under similar circumstances to the author except that my mother was only 66. She had her birthday 4 days before she died in Palliative Care.
Perhaps in a way, that is why his Camino doesn't sound like his own spiritual journey - perhaps it was more of a journey in her memory, something that he felt he had to do to honor her, and if so, that makes it all the more special.
September 15, 2013
This is one of natures best kept secrets, not that I feel people shouldn't know about the beautiful wilderness up there. I've made the trek three times and plan on going back there many more times. As a Cabinet maker, joiner this is the perfect wood. Dense from the cold climate and very likely strait grained. This area means so much to me and my wife that I'd probably kill to keep it's beauty.
I was able to fined a small stick on the ground which I intend to carve. The only dilemma I face is, do I carve the roman empire as the sigh talks about or do I carve the native people in their natural habitat?
The pictures you've posted are stunning. But unless you've actually made the trek, one can't really feel what it's like to touch two thousand years of growth, in humanity and ecology. Write to me my name is Mike Henderson I can be reached at mikehenderson1@shaw.ca
I'd love to hear from you and read about your adventures.
I was able to fined a small stick on the ground which I intend to carve. The only dilemma I face is, do I carve the roman empire as the sigh talks about or do I carve the native people in their natural habitat?
The pictures you've posted are stunning. But unless you've actually made the trek, one can't really feel what it's like to touch two thousand years of growth, in humanity and ecology. Write to me my name is Mike Henderson I can be reached at mikehenderson1@shaw.ca
I'd love to hear from you and read about your adventures.
January 9, 2016
I enjoyed reading this as it is a good documentary account of what the route entails, and cannot but admire the writer's dedication and determination to achieve his goal. He recounts his experience in a frank and straightforward manner, and I found some of his language unnecessarily graphic, but he tells it as it is for him, including the less attractive aspects of the trip. He describes in detail his rigorous daily routine and perseverance, which provides tips and inspiration for potential pilgrims. However, one real disappointment was the lack of photographs, which would have made the descriptions of the various villages and countryside more meaningful.
December 15, 2015
Nice read. Great description of what it takes to complete the Camino in 20 days. I liked his descriptions of the towns and churches even as he was also devoting equal time to his diet soda addiction. Very impressive to read of someone who walked so many hours and kilometers on chocolate, nuts and sodas. Not the usual Camino story but a fun read for anyone looking for a different perspective.
September 16, 2015
A great book on a great adventure.
Thanks Randall for the account of your Way. Thanks for your last chapter that deserves several readings.
Thanks for seeding us with the desire to make our own Way to Santiago. I hope for me as a spanish speaking will be as enjoyable as it was for you, although my goal will be more on 30 days plus -I am in my sixties- than your 20 days.
Thanks Randall for the account of your Way. Thanks for your last chapter that deserves several readings.
Thanks for seeding us with the desire to make our own Way to Santiago. I hope for me as a spanish speaking will be as enjoyable as it was for you, although my goal will be more on 30 days plus -I am in my sixties- than your 20 days.
December 16, 2014
I recieved this book in order to give a review of it. To be honest, I misplaced it. I'm sorry I did that.
The book is an interesting account, it is, on occasion, a little ramling but as the camino, it is mostly on track. I can't say I'd buy a copy, but that's not the fault of the writer.
The book is an interesting account, it is, on occasion, a little ramling but as the camino, it is mostly on track. I can't say I'd buy a copy, but that's not the fault of the writer.
May 12, 2013
I would have given it a 5, honestly. It was an enjoyable read! Finished quickly. Just at moments it felt like a quick description of 20 days. Still nice and recommended book! Good tips, witty language, maybe a 'must' for anyone, who is even remotely considering walking the Camino.
February 16, 2013
This book would probably appeal to someone who has done the camino or plans to do it more than it did to me. I would have liked to have seen some pictures in the book as well.
April 1, 2015
I think is funny, adventure, interesting writer, and great landchape photographer. Well, not muct to say, because I did'nt yet read this book.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews