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Three Stripes South
In 2016, desperate for a drastic change, Bex Band decided to walk the length of Israel with her husband: a 1000km trek including a dangerous crossing through the vast Negev desert.
She'd never done anything like it before and the experience changed her life, building back her confidence and self-esteem.
Three Stripes South tells the story of this transformative adventure - battling heat, exhaustion, self-doubt and prejudice - and the new life Bex built for herself when she got home, founding the Love Her Wild women's adventure community.
'Lacking confidence is something that a lot of women can relate to' says Bex. 'For me personally, it began at school with undiagnosed dyslexia and bullying. This fed into my adult years where I found myself in a vicious cycle of unhappy jobs and bouts of depression. I had low self-esteem and a belief that I really wasn't capable of achieving much in life.'
Fast forward to today and Bex has transformed her life, tackling gender inequality in adventure travel, and championing women in the outdoors through regular talks, blogging and leading women on adventures all over the world. Nominated for multiple awards for her work advocating women in adventure, her story is an inspiration.
She'd never done anything like it before and the experience changed her life, building back her confidence and self-esteem.
Three Stripes South tells the story of this transformative adventure - battling heat, exhaustion, self-doubt and prejudice - and the new life Bex built for herself when she got home, founding the Love Her Wild women's adventure community.
'Lacking confidence is something that a lot of women can relate to' says Bex. 'For me personally, it began at school with undiagnosed dyslexia and bullying. This fed into my adult years where I found myself in a vicious cycle of unhappy jobs and bouts of depression. I had low self-esteem and a belief that I really wasn't capable of achieving much in life.'
Fast forward to today and Bex has transformed her life, tackling gender inequality in adventure travel, and championing women in the outdoors through regular talks, blogging and leading women on adventures all over the world. Nominated for multiple awards for her work advocating women in adventure, her story is an inspiration.
192 pages, Paperback
Published August 6, 2021
4 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Bex Band
17 books8 followersBex Band is a full-time adventurer and conservationist. She founded the UK’s largest women’s adventure community, Love Her Wild. Her previous adventures include thru hiking the 1000km Israel National Trail, kick-scooting the length of the USA and kayaking the width of the UK against plastic pollution.
Bex has been recognised by Business Leader as UK’s top 30 inspirational entrepreneurs and was awarded the Next Generation Award by Enterprise Nation. For her work advocating women in adventure she has been shortlisted for a National Diversity Award and in 2018 was given ‘Legacy Maker’ status on the San Miguel 'Alternative Rich List'.
You can follow Bex on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter (@Bex_Band) or via her blog, which has had over a 1.3million readers: www.bexband.com
Bex has been recognised by Business Leader as UK’s top 30 inspirational entrepreneurs and was awarded the Next Generation Award by Enterprise Nation. For her work advocating women in adventure she has been shortlisted for a National Diversity Award and in 2018 was given ‘Legacy Maker’ status on the San Miguel 'Alternative Rich List'.
You can follow Bex on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter (@Bex_Band) or via her blog, which has had over a 1.3million readers: www.bexband.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
August 9, 2021
Full disclosure here - I'm Bex's mum so am unlikely to give her book a bad review. That said, I'm a qualified librarian and review books for several publications so try to be honest in my reviews even when I know the author, keeping in mind the target audience, looking at the plot, characters and whether any illustrations add to the text, etc. Plus I'm fully aware that some books that people love others hate so all reviews are subjective to a certain extent.
I'm used to reading Bex's blogs and her open, honest and relaxed way of writing comes through. This is an interesting and easy read, full of touches of humour. I love the way Bex has included bits of information about the history and geography of the areas she was travelling through, little teasers that send you scuttling off to find out more and I also love her interactions with and observations about the various people she met along the trail. Her descriptions are evocative; the mountains to be climbed, the wide open spaces to be crossed, the heat and endless days. It was a bit strange reading about people I know very well, particularly during their exchanges, but at other times I forgot that as I got pulled into the journey and the challenges. I read this book in 24 hours - always a sign that I'm involved in a story and want to know more - it made me laugh, it made me cry and I'm still in awe of what she achieved (and has done since).
I'm used to reading Bex's blogs and her open, honest and relaxed way of writing comes through. This is an interesting and easy read, full of touches of humour. I love the way Bex has included bits of information about the history and geography of the areas she was travelling through, little teasers that send you scuttling off to find out more and I also love her interactions with and observations about the various people she met along the trail. Her descriptions are evocative; the mountains to be climbed, the wide open spaces to be crossed, the heat and endless days. It was a bit strange reading about people I know very well, particularly during their exchanges, but at other times I forgot that as I got pulled into the journey and the challenges. I read this book in 24 hours - always a sign that I'm involved in a story and want to know more - it made me laugh, it made me cry and I'm still in awe of what she achieved (and has done since).
October 5, 2021
Wow, I loved Three Stripes South, it was an easy going and compelling read. I ended each chapter finding it difficult to put the book down, picking it up again the next evening in bed keen to dive into Bex and Gil's epic adventure.
I've read quite a few adventure books written by first time authors and often end up giving up with frustration at the over flowery language (yeah, I know my writing style is not flawless) and repetitive style of each of the chapters as "this" happened and then "that" happened. Often this type of book can feel really 2D, which is why I give a triple thumbs up to Bex for her first book. It's packed from cover to cover with characters met on the trail, landscapes described so beautifully, it was impossible not to picture them together with the couples emotional rollercoaster which all made this colourful book a huge pleasure to read.
Thanks Bex for the time and care you clear put into writing this wonderfully inspiring story so we can share your epic adventure. It's a huge inspiration.
I've read quite a few adventure books written by first time authors and often end up giving up with frustration at the over flowery language (yeah, I know my writing style is not flawless) and repetitive style of each of the chapters as "this" happened and then "that" happened. Often this type of book can feel really 2D, which is why I give a triple thumbs up to Bex for her first book. It's packed from cover to cover with characters met on the trail, landscapes described so beautifully, it was impossible not to picture them together with the couples emotional rollercoaster which all made this colourful book a huge pleasure to read.
Thanks Bex for the time and care you clear put into writing this wonderfully inspiring story so we can share your epic adventure. It's a huge inspiration.
January 7, 2022
I was drawn to this book as I LOVED Wild by Cheryl Strayed. It was amazing to hear about hiking in the wilderness from a woman's perspective.
Then, I find a book where a woman is hiking across Israel (what an unusual country to choose, will there be political tension etc). AND the woman is British!
I work in busy, work-orientated London and reading about a woman who has escaped that to find confidence and freedom in nature is so inspiring.
My only criticism is that I would have appreciated a few more moments of detailed description of the setting. At points I desperately wanted to picture the beautiful scene that had so moved Bex and Gil but there was not quite enough description to be able to do that.
This said, I'm totally inspired to check out Love Her Wild and I think that Bex and Gil are super inspirational for quitting the system and putting themselves first.
A very enjoyable first book of the year.
Then, I find a book where a woman is hiking across Israel (what an unusual country to choose, will there be political tension etc). AND the woman is British!
I work in busy, work-orientated London and reading about a woman who has escaped that to find confidence and freedom in nature is so inspiring.
My only criticism is that I would have appreciated a few more moments of detailed description of the setting. At points I desperately wanted to picture the beautiful scene that had so moved Bex and Gil but there was not quite enough description to be able to do that.
This said, I'm totally inspired to check out Love Her Wild and I think that Bex and Gil are super inspirational for quitting the system and putting themselves first.
A very enjoyable first book of the year.
September 26, 2022
Every now and then I pick up a book that's been sitting on my shelf that I *need* to read in that moment. I read this in one sitting and now I'm off to make Iife changes byeee!
August 8, 2021
Three Stripes South is the perfect book for the armchair adventurer that needs a kick up the backside to turn their idea from passing thought into reality. Bex Band is a hero in the inclusive and welcoming women’s adventure community that she has created through Love Her Wild, and to learn where her journey started is an inspiration to even the most non-outdoorsy women amongst us. Bex turned her idea into reality through the quick click of a button, buying plane tickets, and then through the slow disassembling of her life to get to the start line. It is this step from thought to reality that holds so many of us back. The trials and tribulations and highs and lows of the journey itself – the 1,020 km trek along the Israeli National Trail – is an engaging and fun read, not unlike fellow adventurer Anna McNuff’s style of writing. So, whether you are quitting your job and moving out of your rental, or finding another type of adventure closer to home, this book shows what can happen when you take a small step that creates unplanned ripples of positive change. I would love to find the article of best hikes in the world that inspired Bex and see what other hikes are on the list!
August 9, 2021
With humility not often found in adventure books, Bex’s descriptive language takes you on the journey every step of the way.
It often takes me weeks, if not months, to finish books but I lapped this one up like water in the desert; finishing it in just three days, eager to find out the next twists and turns of the tales on the trail.
The book makes adventure seem accessible to everyone, akin to reading the book itself. Bex’s descriptions are powerful enough to conjur up vivid imagery but not enough to lose the reader with dense or excessively-flowery poetic language.
Although it was a narrative book, I appreciated the handy hints about long-distance hiking and the gear one might need if they were to pursue such a feat.
As well as hearing about Bex’s thoughts and feelings, I really enjoyed the focus on relationships forged on the trail, particularly the special bond she has with her husband.
Would not hesitate to recommend this book to anyone.
It often takes me weeks, if not months, to finish books but I lapped this one up like water in the desert; finishing it in just three days, eager to find out the next twists and turns of the tales on the trail.
The book makes adventure seem accessible to everyone, akin to reading the book itself. Bex’s descriptions are powerful enough to conjur up vivid imagery but not enough to lose the reader with dense or excessively-flowery poetic language.
Although it was a narrative book, I appreciated the handy hints about long-distance hiking and the gear one might need if they were to pursue such a feat.
As well as hearing about Bex’s thoughts and feelings, I really enjoyed the focus on relationships forged on the trail, particularly the special bond she has with her husband.
Would not hesitate to recommend this book to anyone.
August 6, 2021
Did "Three Stipes" make me want to hike the Israel National Trail? No. Did it make me want to grab every opportunity in front of me, even the scary ones? Abso-flippin-lutely! It's such a refreshing change to read a story that isn't all about the self-confident conquering of the outdoors, but more about trying something for the first time, knowing it's going to be hard, but also knowing that it will feed your soul. If you're thinking about making changes in your life and need some inspiration - this is the book for you.
August 9, 2021
‘As I did with all the views, I tried to take a mental snapshot, to imprint it on my mind forever, although I knew that within a few days the memory would fade, the true grandeur of the space reserved only for the immediate moment.’
I read this cracking book while away on a long weekend in the Lake District. I had no previous knowledge of the Israel National Trail or any real desire of embarking on a long-distance hike myself. This didn’t matter one iota. I spent the two days it took to devour this book transported to the Negev desert; third-wheeling with Gil and Bex in their MSR Hubba-Hubba tent ;) Musings that Bex shares about her time hiking the INT in the hot, hot heat were completely relatable as I clambered my way up a soggy Helm Crag in the Lake District. Bex writes in an engaging and accessible way: retelling entertaining stories, as well as imparting interesting facts about the practicalities of hiking and the country and culture she is travelling through. Most importantly, she is entirely and refreshingly honest about her sometimes self-doubting inner monologue, and the struggles she faces while on the challenge. I still don’t have much desire to embark on a long distance hike myself(!) but found Bex’s thoughts she shares in this lovely book relatable to any adventure big or small. This book will appeal to anyone who has ever enjoyed spending time in the outdoors yet feared that they perhaps weren’t fit or ‘capable’ enough to be doing said activity. 5 stars.
I read this cracking book while away on a long weekend in the Lake District. I had no previous knowledge of the Israel National Trail or any real desire of embarking on a long-distance hike myself. This didn’t matter one iota. I spent the two days it took to devour this book transported to the Negev desert; third-wheeling with Gil and Bex in their MSR Hubba-Hubba tent ;) Musings that Bex shares about her time hiking the INT in the hot, hot heat were completely relatable as I clambered my way up a soggy Helm Crag in the Lake District. Bex writes in an engaging and accessible way: retelling entertaining stories, as well as imparting interesting facts about the practicalities of hiking and the country and culture she is travelling through. Most importantly, she is entirely and refreshingly honest about her sometimes self-doubting inner monologue, and the struggles she faces while on the challenge. I still don’t have much desire to embark on a long distance hike myself(!) but found Bex’s thoughts she shares in this lovely book relatable to any adventure big or small. This book will appeal to anyone who has ever enjoyed spending time in the outdoors yet feared that they perhaps weren’t fit or ‘capable’ enough to be doing said activity. 5 stars.
May 5, 2022
Having stumbled upon this book by accident whilst browsing a friend's bookcase, I ordered a copy, knowing nothing about it other than what the blurb told me.
There are a lot of good things to say about it, and I could go on and on, but I'll stick to the main points
Firstly, what struck me was that the writer announced that she took on this huge walking task without any experience and with little training. I found this incredible, but after reading to the end of the book and learning a little of her character, I understand how she was driven to do it.
The very understanding husband who accompanied her is from Israel, so communicating their needs and understanding his country's culture must have made the epic journey easier for them than for others to endure - I don't think I would have coped - and therefore explains their enthusiasm to complete the hike.
I loved their determination not to miss a single km of the trail, and am full of admiration for them both.
Having thought of walking long distance many times over the years but never having done so, I'm left wishing I was younger and fitter and more confident to take up the walking poles and embarking on an adventure of my own... These days, a flight of stairs is as near as I get ! 😂
Check out Bex Band on her Women's Adventure community, "Love Her Wild" on Twitter @_loveherwild
There are a lot of good things to say about it, and I could go on and on, but I'll stick to the main points
Firstly, what struck me was that the writer announced that she took on this huge walking task without any experience and with little training. I found this incredible, but after reading to the end of the book and learning a little of her character, I understand how she was driven to do it.
The very understanding husband who accompanied her is from Israel, so communicating their needs and understanding his country's culture must have made the epic journey easier for them than for others to endure - I don't think I would have coped - and therefore explains their enthusiasm to complete the hike.
I loved their determination not to miss a single km of the trail, and am full of admiration for them both.
Having thought of walking long distance many times over the years but never having done so, I'm left wishing I was younger and fitter and more confident to take up the walking poles and embarking on an adventure of my own... These days, a flight of stairs is as near as I get ! 😂
Check out Bex Band on her Women's Adventure community, "Love Her Wild" on Twitter @_loveherwild
August 6, 2021
Really enjoyed! Although at first glance, the story could be a little formulaic (quit conventional job, have big adventure, change life trajectory - we've all read these before, right?) - what makes it stand out is an easy, honest writing style with lovely flashes of humour and a great way of describing the sometimes bizarre things which happen while you're travelling.
The other thing which really stands out is the author's ability to describe relationships - the strength of her relationship with her husband simply blazes off the page, and, as the reader, you are drawn into the different ways she relates to the different people she meets along the trail.
It's an easy book to read, and I defy anyone not to be inspired to look up long distance walking trails for themselves.
The only reason I gave it 4, rather than 5, stars was because I wanted to know more about what happened *after* the trail - about how the experience went on to inspire the author to found an influential women's adventure movement and, perhaps even more interestingly, about how that movement has grown and grown. Maybe that's for the next book ...
The other thing which really stands out is the author's ability to describe relationships - the strength of her relationship with her husband simply blazes off the page, and, as the reader, you are drawn into the different ways she relates to the different people she meets along the trail.
It's an easy book to read, and I defy anyone not to be inspired to look up long distance walking trails for themselves.
The only reason I gave it 4, rather than 5, stars was because I wanted to know more about what happened *after* the trail - about how the experience went on to inspire the author to found an influential women's adventure movement and, perhaps even more interestingly, about how that movement has grown and grown. Maybe that's for the next book ...
August 9, 2021
What an absolutely inspirational book. From the very start of the tale I felt like I was sharing the journey with Bex. Her descriptions of the Israel National Trail, the country, the culture, and her encounters with people along the way were beautifully eloquent. What I liked most, though, was her honesty about the emotions she experienced, the personal growth she recognised, as she embarked on such a huge challenge that was a million miles from the life she was used to. The book made me laugh, and sometimes made me tearful, but most of all reinforced my belief that the humdrum of day-to-day life isn't everything and we should all fit more adventure into our days! A thoroughly enjoyable read!
August 12, 2021
I have just binge-read this book. I loved the honest and open style of writing and felt fully engaged with the story. I found myself wondering whether I wanted to hike the Israel National Trail - I was enchanted by some of Bex's descriptions of the trail, yet definitely put off by some of the industrialised parts.
But this book is not just about hiking the Israel National Trail. If you have ever wondered why some people voluntarily put themselves through great hardship, then this book will give you an answer. Whether you love to adventure yourself, or are just curious about people who do, this book is a great read.
It is a real adventure story of great derring-do, told from the heart. I loved it.
But this book is not just about hiking the Israel National Trail. If you have ever wondered why some people voluntarily put themselves through great hardship, then this book will give you an answer. Whether you love to adventure yourself, or are just curious about people who do, this book is a great read.
It is a real adventure story of great derring-do, told from the heart. I loved it.
August 6, 2021
This book is both a cracking adventure story and a story or great personal growth. If you've ever undertaken a long(er) adventure you will recognise the challenges and difficulties that Bex faces. If you haven't then this book beautifully describes the hardships, grubbyness and unrelenting challenges of a multi day adventure trip.
But it's also a touching account of personal growth and finding your own truth, through stripping back the excesses and distractions of modern life to find out what lies beneath, what we're all really made if (deep down).
I read it in one sitting, cover to cover and loved every minute of it.
But it's also a touching account of personal growth and finding your own truth, through stripping back the excesses and distractions of modern life to find out what lies beneath, what we're all really made if (deep down).
I read it in one sitting, cover to cover and loved every minute of it.
August 8, 2021
A tale of trials, tribulations and ultimately triumph! Bex paints a captivating picture of what it's like to step outside your comfort zone after making the decision to leave behind the security of everyday life and do something different. With not a whiff of romanticism in sight, we follow Bex and her husband, Gil, on their journey along the Israel National Trail, from complete hiking novices at the start, to seasoned walkers with over 1000km under their boots. Bex has a knack for storytelling, turning the often mundane days of walking into a tale of perseverance and determination. The book is a compelling read, and and inspiration to those of us who think 'I could never...'
August 9, 2021
I’d never even heard of the INT and now I find myself wanting to pack a bag and walk it!
Easy-to-read, honest story of Bex and her husband, Gil, walking the length of his native Israel. I enjoyed reading about the various characters they met along the way. They certainly added humour to the book. If anything I wish it had been longer; I am dubious that they reached the decision to pack in their jobs and leave their home after just one discussion so I would have loved to know more about how they came to this decision. Being a geek, I would also love to know how they chose their kit and what they took with them. Really enjoyed the chatty writing style. Great read.
Easy-to-read, honest story of Bex and her husband, Gil, walking the length of his native Israel. I enjoyed reading about the various characters they met along the way. They certainly added humour to the book. If anything I wish it had been longer; I am dubious that they reached the decision to pack in their jobs and leave their home after just one discussion so I would have loved to know more about how they came to this decision. Being a geek, I would also love to know how they chose their kit and what they took with them. Really enjoyed the chatty writing style. Great read.
August 22, 2021
Wow! I read this book in less than 24 hours. I just couldn’t leave it alone. It made me want to hike the INT, but maybe that ship has sailed. I have always loved the great outdoors and taken on challenges, but not quite on this scale. It certainly made me believe that I can still achieve more than I think I can. I loved following Bex’s realisation that, after some difficult early years in formal education, she can really make a difference to the world and live a different life from the expected norm. The relationship between Bex and Gil was heartwarming. I will be recommending this book to everyone who will listen! A great read.
October 14, 2021
A totally lovely book. The writing style is so easy to read it’s relatable but not rambling and leaves you feeling empowered for your own adventure. This walk was a seriously impressive achievement because of the bravery needed to do it and the writing really lets you feel that. It would have been easy to write a long book about how harsh the walking was and every bad thing that happened but I appreciated Bex’s focus on how the walk made her feel and it’s use as a tool to change her life. My only wish (as for all similar books) is that they had pictures of the amazing views they describe!
August 9, 2021
A refreshingly honest, gritty and inspiring account of taking on a huge challenge. I didn't know a thing about the Israel National Trail, or really about the country itself to be honest, but reading this I felt like I got a bit of insight about the land, the people and the cultures. The story just flowed throughout.
I really enjoyed this book, and would recommend for anyone who loves to read about adventure.
I really enjoyed this book, and would recommend for anyone who loves to read about adventure.
August 4, 2025
I'm not usually one for real life adventure books, but Three Stripes South was a welcome surprise.
I've never done such a long walk, but with the way the book is written, I found the experiences and challenges very relatable.
It's not all sunshine and beautiful landscapes, and not overly dramatised either.
I found myself following the route on the map and crossing my fingers that all would go well, feeling the effort that went into completing the 1,020km hike.
Well done Bex for a lovely read.
I've never done such a long walk, but with the way the book is written, I found the experiences and challenges very relatable.
It's not all sunshine and beautiful landscapes, and not overly dramatised either.
I found myself following the route on the map and crossing my fingers that all would go well, feeling the effort that went into completing the 1,020km hike.
Well done Bex for a lovely read.
August 7, 2021
This is the story of a fantastic adventure but more than that its the story of how being brave and following your dreams (even if you arn't quite sure where those dreams will take you) can bring you joy and fulfullment in life that you never knew existed. Its funny, heatwarming and and made me want to catch a flight and walk the INT! I loved it and read the whole thing in two days!
February 8, 2022
I bought this as I have followed Bex and Love Her Wild for a couple of years and I love the group and the whole ethos. It was great to read how it all began.
I find her inspiring and the story was written in a lovely, laid back way.
Did it make me want to hike the trail? Absolutely not! But it was so interesting to read and I learnt a lot about a country I haven’t heard much about.
Great read 😊
I find her inspiring and the story was written in a lovely, laid back way.
Did it make me want to hike the trail? Absolutely not! But it was so interesting to read and I learnt a lot about a country I haven’t heard much about.
Great read 😊
August 7, 2021
What a wonderfully written book of adventure and one woman’s growth into this new and exciting life. Bex tells the story so well, it makes you feel like packing up your bags and going on a long journey! Cannot recommend this book more!
August 7, 2021
Three Stripes South 🌟
What an amazing journey and utterly awesome (yet completely honest) adventure 🙌🏼 I read this over two days and did not want to put it down! Bex’s passion for life and her ability to grow is so inspiring… PS. Does anyone want to do the Israeli National Trail with me 👌🏼
What an amazing journey and utterly awesome (yet completely honest) adventure 🙌🏼 I read this over two days and did not want to put it down! Bex’s passion for life and her ability to grow is so inspiring… PS. Does anyone want to do the Israeli National Trail with me 👌🏼
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August 8, 2021I was refreshed by the honesty and the comittment to the unknown journey-this book reminds you that all you need is to follow that feeling and deal with the unknown challenges one step at a time. Really inspiring and human!
August 11, 2021
A great read. I felt the pain and joy as Bex took us on the journey with her. It was as though I was with her every step of the way as she described the people and places along this amazing trek. Pure escapism.
September 11, 2021
If you ever feel fed up with your life, unmotivated, and simply in 'meh'-mood, longing a massive adventure read this book! It will inspire you and make you believe that anything is possible. You might even start doing that thing you always wanted to do!
September 19, 2021
Inspiring, educational and very readable! So glad I picked up a copy of Three Stripes South. I can also highly recommend attending one of Bex's talks to hear more about many awesome adventures and the Love Her Wild movement .
September 18, 2023
Fantastic book, couldn’t put it down. An inspirational story of an ordinary lady taking on an extraordinary journey. As a member of Bex’s LHW community I had no idea the adventure that led to its conception. Highly recommend.
August 8, 2021
A beautifully written, honest and inspiring account of an epic adventure. I feel like I’ve been taken on an adventure and now have a thirst for more!
August 9, 2021
I have no intention of attempting anything like the INT but even so, I could relate to many of the challenges Bex faced and enjoyed reading the very real account of what it actually takes 💪.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews