No Wrong Turns: Cycling the World, Part One: Paris to Sydney

I loved this story and chuckled out loud at many parts. It's a great adventure story and well told

Admittedly, I'm fearful of travel writing. They can have an air of pretence at times, intended or otherwise. The notion of writing about places that few others will ever visit can do that I suppose. So when a friend and former classmate of mine decided to publish this book, I was unsure of how to proceed. However, I was lucky enough to be able to review the first few chapters of ths tale, and could not get enough. This resulted in almost getting a restraining order from Facebook Messenging him to get more content!Chris has a natural ability for story telling humour, and believe me, that is not easy! I've regularly had out loud belly laughs on the train home (with the accompanying glances), something that even self-titled humorous books cannot deliver. The pace of the story is absolutely superb, keeping the reader interested, whilst delivering the details, and Chris' unique view on locations.The underlying premise of his search to find "the one" are so cleverly woven in, as well as hilarious references to the movie that must now surely be made about this book!Please do not think this is another "biking book" or your standard travel diary. This is a hilarious, honest, heartfelt account of an amazing journey, and I for one can't wait for Part 2!!

A compelling and very funny story that has been very well written. A must-read for any armchair adventurer or budding around the world cyclist. I highly recommend this book.

Great book. Funny, educational, inspirational!

Chris Poutney's funny and inspiring account of his quixotic attempt to cycle the world and complete seven self-imposed challenges while simultaneously searching for 'the one' is really one of a kind. This is a highly personal account from a very open and positive author for whom cycle touring is a way of life. While the rigidity of his self-imposed rules may sometimes leave you scratching your head (no escalators - seriously?) his passion and determination to complete his trip his own unique way wins you over and it undoubtedly makes for a more dramatic and interesting story.The book started life as a daily journal on a popular cycle touring site hosting over ten thousand journals where its humour, candour and willingness to engage with its readers saw it rapidly rose to be the most popular on the site. In condensing over two years’ worth of journal entries into a manageable book Chris has sensibly concentrated on the highlights which still retain the freshness of the original while taking the opportunity to provide some welcome background material.While the book does a good job of describing the ups and downs of daily life on the road, it is in the moments of high drama (of which there are plenty) and in the memorable encounters with locals and eccentric fellow travellers where the writing really shines. This hugely entertaining account should find favour with travellers of all kinds, lovers of Bill Bryson-like humour, and just anyone who likes a damn good read.