No Complaints…Shut Up and Walk: One Sexagenarian Man’s Unlikely Journey Along El Camino de Santiago

by Emmett Williams, Jasmyne Emmerick

Emmett Williams was joining his wife on her pilgrimage along El Camino de Santiago de Compostela (an ancient 500 mile walk across northern Spain). It had been a “bucket list” item for each of them, but for different reasons. His wife was going in search of an epiphany, and Emmett was just taking a walking vacation. He found a personal freedom and joy previously unknown to him. Emmett is a sexagenarian “every day” man. On the onset of his journey, Emmett is a healthy man, but has some minor physical limitation as the result of age. He simply and passionately recounts his forty-five days on the El Camino de Santiago de Compostela; the daily trials and overall triumph during an unusual vacation. While compassionately helping his wife, Monica, realize her dream; Emmett experiences an unlikely change within himself as the result of his unforgettable journey as he walked across Spain. This book is for those seeking information of an experience on El Camino and arm-chair adventurers.

214 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 26, 2013

Reviews

[Shahid · Rating 4 out of 5]

No Complaints…Shut Up and Walk is an honest, down-to-earth account of one man’s unexpected transformation on the famed El Camino de Santiago. Emmett Williams sets out with no grand plans—just to support his wife on her spiritual journey and enjoy a long walk. But what begins as a simple "walking vacation" becomes a path of reflection, freedom, and self-discovery. Emmett, a relatable, everyday man in his sixties, candidly shares the joys, aches, humour, and quiet revelations of his 45-day trek across Spain. His writing is warm, witty, and deeply human, making this story perfect for those curious about the Camino or looking for inspiration in later life. In the end, it’s not just the miles that change him—it’s the subtle, unexpected moments along the way that truly move the soul.

[Keith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this account of an older couple walking the Camino. Both struggled through physical difficulties, but persevered to the end. The editing of the book could have been better, but the actual writing is quite good.

[Dagmar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! Truly enjoyed it. I like to think that I have read a lot of "Camino" books, what separates this one is warmth and kindness of the author. Loved the pictures, too.

[Gerald R Sheppard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Buen Camino

I’ve read a lot of accounts by people having done the Camino, except for Shirley McClain’s, this is a heart warming tale.

[Deborah Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

No Complaints

First, please get a good proof reader! It was distracting to have to interpret meanings and complete sentences. Some sentences, the words were out of order and the reader had to create a complete thought. That being said, the book was a good reference to introduce the Camino de Santiago to potential pilgrims.

There are good suggestions about places to stay and what to pack. Knowing what to expect is helpful for the reader to prepare for a pilgrimage.

Overall, the book is helpful as an introduction. Knowing each pilgrim has their own experience, the book reinforces the uniqueness of the journey. I look forward to the challenges and learning about my own strengths and weaknesses as I make the journey in 2015.

[Margie Zylstra · Rating 4 out of 5]

The editing of the book needed some work but that could be the translation to Kindle. Overall, I really enjoyed the book.