The Salt Path

Synopsis

Bring nature into your home with the inspiring true story of hope and the healing powers of the natural world, in one of the most talked about books of the decade

FROM THE MILLION-COPY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

'This is what you need right now to muster hope and resilience . . . a beautiful story and a reminder that humans can endure adversity' Stylist

'A beautiful book, it really lives up to the hype . . . an enjoyable, gentle yet moving read' Pandora Sykes on The High Low
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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.

The Salt Path is an honest and life-affirming true story of coming to terms with grief and the healing power of the natural world. Ultimately, it is a portrayal of home, and how it can be lost, rebuilt and rediscovered in the most unexpected ways.
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THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER, WINNER OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY LITERATURE CHRISTOPHER BLAND PRIZE & SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2018 COSTA BIOGRAPHY AWARD & WAINWRIGHT GOLDEN BEER BOOK PRIZE 2018

GUARDIAN BEST BOOKS OF SUMMER

'A beautiful, thoughtful, lyrical story of homelessness, human strength and endurance' Guardian

'Mesmerising. It is one of the most uplifting, inspiring books that I've ever read' i

'The most inspirational book of this year' The Times

'Luminescent. A literary phenomenon' Mail on Sunday

Sunday Times bestseller, September 2023
Winner, Royal Society of Literature Christopher Bland Prize, 2018

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Summary

Chapter 1: Home

Raynor and her husband Moth bid farewell to their beloved home, a cottage in Cornwall, due to financial hardship. They embark on a new adventure: walking the entire 630-mile South West Coast Path, with only their backpacks and a small tent.

Chapter 2: Start

As they set out on the path, Raynor and Moth encounter a range of emotions, from excitement to trepidation. They navigate the rugged coastal terrain, passing towering cliffs and sandy beaches. Along the way, they meet other hikers who offer encouragement and support.

Chapter 3: Finding Our Feet

They encounter challenges, such as relentless rain and aching feet. However, they persevere, gradually finding their rhythm and learning to embrace the hardships as part of the journey. They develop a deep connection with the landscapes they traverse.

Chapter 4: The Northern Coast

The path leads them along the dramatic coastline of Devon, home to stunning beaches and towering cliffs. They encounter friendly locals and learn about the region's history and culture. Raynor reflects on the past and the reasons for their displacement.

Chapter 5: Halfway

As they reach the halfway point of their journey, Raynor and Moth take a brief break in the quaint town of Falmouth. They celebrate their accomplishments and reflect on the transformative nature of their experience. They are grateful for the support of friends and family who have kept them going.

Chapter 6: The Second Half

They resume their journey, now with renewed vigor. They pass through the remote and rugged coastline of Cornwall, encountering wild landscapes and challenging terrain. Raynor and Moth face their own physical and emotional limits, but they push through with determination.

Chapter 7: The Lizard

They reach the southernmost point of the UK, the Lizard Peninsula. Here, they witness the stunning turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean and marvel at the unique geology of the region. The beauty of their surroundings inspires them and gives them hope.

Chapter 8: Back Home

Finally, after 100 days of walking, Raynor and Moth arrive back at their starting point in Minehead. They are greeted by friends and loved ones who have been following their journey. Overwhelmed with emotion, they reflect on the transformative experience that has changed their lives forever.