I’m Off Then

by Hape Kekkeling

Overweight, overworked, and disenchanted, Kerkeling was an unlikely candidate to make the arduous pilgrimage across the Pyrenees to the Spanish shrine of St. James, a 1200 year old journey undertaken by nearly 100,000 people every year. But he decided to get off the couch and do it anyway. Lonely and searching for meaning among the way, he began the journal that turned into this utterly frank, engaging book. Filled with unforgettable characters, historic landscapes, and Kerkeling’s self-depricating humor, I’m Off Then is an inspiring travelogue, a publishing phenomenon and a spiritual journey unlike any other.

333 pages, Unknown Binding

Published June 1, 2006

Reviews

[Tania · Rating 4 out of 5]

Camino dreaming.

[Trekcapri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Hape's book before going on my Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage and actually thought of some of his observations myself. His humor & realism on his journey was both entertaining and genuinely descriptive.

I would highly recommend reading his book whether you decide to walk the Camino de Santiago. It is as much about life's journey as it is about walking the Camino.

[Studebhawk · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Off We Go**
The author embarks on a journey on foot along the historic pilgrims' path through Spain. At times both funny and poignant, he describes his fellow pilgrims and provides vivid details about the trail itself. His narrative flows freely, combining humor with irreverence.

Faced with the challenging geology of the trail and inclement weather, the author perseveres, sharing a delightful story filled with memorable characters and rich historical context. As he completes his trek, there is a sense of bittersweetness for the reader, who is left wanting to hear more about his adventures.

[Jean · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit of a free-for-all in the writing, but it was interesting to learn about the trail.

[Carrie Froese · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written by a German by a man doing the Camino De Santiago back in 2006 when the path was more remote. Written by a comedian who was able to find the humorous and the profound.