What’s it about?
Just days after Raynor learns that Moth, her husband of 32 years, is terminally ill, their home is taken away and they lose their livelihood. With nothing left and little time, they make the brave and impulsive decision to walk the 630 miles of the sea-swept South West Coast Path, from Somerset to Dorset, via Devon and Cornwall.
Carrying only the essentials for survival on their backs, they live wild in the ancient, weathered landscape of cliffs, sea and sky. Yet through every step, every encounter and every test along the way, their walk becomes a remarkable journey.
My thoughts
This book had been recommended to me by several people, all saying how wonderfully inspiring and emotional it is, so I finally got round to reading it before Christmas.
I found the book to be exceptionally honest and I couldn’t help but warm and want to befriend Raynor and Moth during a particularly difficult and challenging time.
There was one thing that did perplex me and that was their desire to make the walk in the first place. I totally understood their financial and housing situation and how completely devastating and demoralising that would be, but why would a 600+ mile walk seem like your only choice.
I’ve visited Cornwall many, many times over the years and very much enjoyed the description of the scenery. This contrasted with the interesting perspective of the couple, not being residents or tourists in the villages and towns they passed through and the, mostly, hostile reception they received. I therefore applaud the their dedication, determination and sheer bloody-mindedness to start this walk and make it as far as they did. It’s amazing what you can achieve with nothing! Also loved the presentation of the book and the cover illustration.
A book I wholeheartedly recommend as an inspirational read for the start to 2020!
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