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Going the Wrong Way cover art

Going the Wrong Way

By: Chris Donaldson
Narrated by: Ben Watt-Doak
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Summary

Since the Stone Age, the "walkabout" has been an aboriginal rite of passage. It is when adolescent boys wander aimlessly into the bush on a journey with no particular destination. During this time, they make the spiritual transition from boy to man. It's a time for self-assessment and deep thought, when he can learn about himself without the influence of his elders, friends, or family. It's a physical and psychological journey.

I didn't look like an aboriginal adolescent as I set off from Belfast on my café racing Moto Guzzi, but looking back, I see that the same determination drove me to set off on a journey of self-discovery. I was 21 and wanted to go "somewhere" for "some time" and, well, for "something"!

This desire drove me to break free from my mediocre, middle-class existence and reach out for the unknown. The demand was irresistible and bound me to an ancient ritual that many young men before me had taken for adventure.

Come with Chris Donaldson on this roller-coaster ride of self-discovery, and you will not be disappointed as there is a near-death experience around every corner! Over 40,000 miles (not counting 10,000 more crewing on an ocean-going racing yacht) through 33 countries - there are enough harum-scarum life lessons to keep you listening on!

All along the way, there are formidable road blocks: trigger-happy boy soldiers with AK-47s in war-torn Africa, the Sahara Desert, the Andes, waves the size of Everest that threaten to sweep him overboard, hepatitis E in South America, and PTSD when he got home - and that's only the half of it.

This odyssey, seen through the eyes of someone in their early 20s, fresh for the Belfast Troubles and lived out in the early 1980s, is raw in its exposure but thoughtful in its deliberations and revealing about the regimes and cultures it passes through.

©2020 Chris Donaldson (P)2020 Chris Donaldson

What listeners say about Going the Wrong Way

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A proper travel adventure on a proper motor bike

I've read/ listened to many many motorbike travel books and some are good (Jupiter travels/ dreaming of Jupiter?) and most are just modern copies generally written by well heeled 'adventurers' following well worn routes by GPS. Canned adventures are fine but no need to write a book about them really.
Going The Wrong Way is a bit different as it's an honest account of someone who just got on their bike with little planning and rode into all sorts of trouble and misadventure. The highs and dark lows are all recounted really well - if you're looking for a bloody entertaining book that shows what's possible with a lot of determination , a lot of beer and no planning have a listen to this

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fantastic

An eventful journey that provides antidotes and the locals veiws and takes on historically relevant events.

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Awesome story

Title: "Gone the Wrong Way" by Chris Donaldson: An Adventurous Journey Across 33 Countries

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Review:

Chris Donaldson's "Gone the Wrong Way" takes readers on an exhilarating and awe-inspiring motorcycle journey through 33 countries, covering an impressive distance of 31,000 miles. This travel memoir is a captivating account of one man's determination, courage, and the unexpected adventures that unfold along the way.

From the very first page, Donaldson's passion for travel and exploration shines through. His vivid descriptions and attention to detail paint a vivid picture of the diverse landscapes, cultures, and people he encounters during his epic journey. Whether it's navigating treacherous mountain passes, braving extreme weather conditions, or immersing himself in the local customs and traditions, the author's experiences are both thrilling and enlightening.

What sets "Gone the Wrong Way" apart is Donaldson's ability to capture the essence of each country he visits. His observations and interactions with locals provide a unique perspective on the cultural, historical, and social aspects of the places he explores. From bustling cities to remote villages, readers are transported to different corners of the globe, experiencing the beauty and challenges of each destination through the author's eyes.

Donaldson's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to connect with his journey. His self-deprecating humor and candid reflections add a personal touch, allowing readers to relate to his triumphs and setbacks. The narrative flows smoothly, and the pacing keeps readers invested in the story, eager to discover what lies ahead.

While "Gone the Wrong Way" is an inspiring and captivating travel memoir, there are a few areas that could have been further developed. Some readers might have appreciated more in-depth insights into the author's personal growth and transformation throughout the journey. Additionally, certain sections of the book could have benefited from more detailed descriptions to fully immerse readers in the surroundings.

Overall, "Gone the Wrong Way" is a thrilling and inspiring travel memoir that will ignite the wanderlust in readers. Chris Donaldson's adventurous spirit and his ability to convey the beauty and challenges of his journey make this book a compelling read. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or an armchair explorer, this memoir will transport you to distant lands and leave you yearning for your own adventure on the open road.

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Great Story, Terrible Narration

The story is decent. A few bits felt a little outdated but it managed to keep me listening for 6 hours. However the narrator is so annoying I couldn’t take any more and had to give up. It’s so cringy when he gets angry, which is way too often!! He also does this little laugh thing when delivering a comedic line that grates so badly!!! Real shame.

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  • 20-06-23

Great listen

Really enjoyed Chris’s book, a great story and 1980’s world view from a different perspective. Well read in audible format.

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Loved it

What an adventure. As a former Moto Guzzi rider it brought back great memories of my (very tame by comparison) exploits. Thoroughly recommended.

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Don’t let this book pass you by!

This is truly a great story of a boy from Belfast escaping from the humdrum and discovering life, and that that entails. Found myself driving slowly and then parking up, so that I could continue the story…

Well narrated and worthy of your time, a five star book and a five star experience of a life well lived…

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Great story

I really enjoyed this story, I love Chris’s voices and accents he uses throughout, it really adds to the experience, I dream of doing a round the world trip someday, and this book gives a great perspective on what to expect .

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Fantastic read.

Would recommend this book to anyone interested in travel and adventure tinged with some excellent Belfast humour, it’s definitely the best of the best, thanks so much Chris for giving me armchair travels of the highest level !

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It had me hooked!

Because of this book I have taken my test and brought a motorcycle. I plan on starting to tour as soon as possible, I honestly cannot tell you how much you need to listen to this book.

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