By Keith Foskett
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I am a Keith Foskett fan after devouring his first book about his Camino trip, The Journey In Between. I then read his second book about his PCT (Pacific Crest Trail) thru-hike called The Last Englishman which I simply could not put down. I had high hopes for this book and I pre-ordered it as soon as it became available on Amazon.
My review
In a typical Fozzie style, I laughed in many places and the description of the trail was very descriptive. It has certainly put me off walking the Cape Wrath Trail, but I am keen to experience the West Highland Way and also the Pennine Way. The book certainly had more downs than ups (metaphorically speaking) as Fozzie unravelled his illness of depression. I understand that this book was very different to his other books and it dealt with a very challenging topic. The magic of meeting his trail angel was a real blessing and I was willing him to admit to himself that he had depression long before he finally agreed to see a doctor. I felt for his mum and his friends and it made me appreciate what it must be like for someone who has this mental illness.
If you are interested in exploring what Scotland has to offer then I would certainly recommend this book. Also, if you are interested in learning more about depression and how to cope with it then it is a worthy read.
Summary (from Amazon)
An amusing and life-affirming travel memoir, concluding with tips for managing depressive episodes.
Keith Foskett refused to let his dark mood define his limitations. Unknowingly suffering from depression, he took to hiking the wilds of Scotland to face the inner demons that threatened to gnaw him to the bone. From the craggy Highlands of the Cape Wrath Trail and West Highland Way to the canals crisscrossing the low country, 600 miles of unforgiving hiking terrain called his name.
Keith repositioned his compass to what really matters in life. As laughter became his travelling companion, he discovered that when dealing with emotional baggage, it’s best to pack light. Pushing his mind and body past the breaking point, his journey could set a brave new course for coping with depression.
Battling ferocious weather, the ubiquitous Scottish midge, strange-sounding local delicacies and substandard TV sets, this is one man’s battle to conquer the wilds of Scotland and his own psychological demon