Penguin/Random House, London 2018

This “first” by Raynor Winn is a gripping story in three aspects: first, the fantastic cover by Angela Harding, second the sad story of the middle aged couple Raynor & Moth, who lose their home, their jobs and Moth his health, third the description of their 650mile walk around the South West Coast Path from Somerset to Devon.

Of course, this autobiographic account reminds the reader of the “...pilgrimage of Harold Fry” in so far, as it is a very sad story, specially of Moth´s fight against his corticobasal degeneration (CBD), a diagnosis without any possible treatment.

With only the most basic equipment and about 30 pound weekly subsidy they set out on their long walk. In contrast to Harold Fry`s experiences they meet with a very varied bunch of people, most of them treating them as homeless outcasts.

Nevertheless Winn, who tells the story in first person, describes the ever changing scenery and weather conditions with just as much empathy as their dire existence. And, for once, her voice sounds authentic and convincing, although this reader here normally hates autobiographical stories.

In the end, they find a roof over their head, but Moth´s further fate remains open.