Kate Wicker is a travel journalist, regularly visiting countries all around the world along with her husband, particularly exploring those hidden gems a bit off the beaten track and unspoiled by tourism. When she begins to have children she decides to bring them along with her too - needing to plan a little differently, but still wanting them to get the most out of these incredible locations, people and experiences. It’s part memoir, part travelogue and a lot of fun.
I am that person, that rolls their eyes when someone sits near me on a plane with a baby or small child. My earphones go in and my music is turned up in anticipation of the screams and tantrums I expect on a long flight. What possible interest does a small child have travelling to these exotic locations? Surely all they can be interested in is ice cream and a swimming pool?
I wasn’t sure if this book was really for me, but I like to explore different genres and perspectives so I thought I would give it a go and I’m so pleased I did. I thoroughly enjoyed every chapter.
The way that the book is structured works incredibly well. Each chapter describes a particular trip, and as a travel journal they evoke the sights, smells and sensations of the location. For instance, the claustrophobia of the tunnel that you travel along to get to the centre of the great pyramid in Egypt. The beauty of the cherry blossom on the trees in Japan, alongside the quirkiness of the cosplay outfits of the Japanese wandering through the pathways beneath the trees. But what is so powerful is the life lessons that are learnt on each trip, in each chapter.
Every adventure transforms into a lesson for one or more of the boys and is told with great humour and honesty. They have their moments when they are grumpy, disappointed or disinterested but there is always a moment that makes the situation a little bit more profound. The lesson in mortality is particularly touching and relatable. But this is in no way a heavy, deep tome about the meaning of life. This is a very funny, easy read. You could easily dip into different chapters if you’re particularly keen on certain countries, but I think you’d miss the bigger picture of the boys growing up and developing which is really lovely to see subtly unfold.
I read this recently over a sweltering weekend in the garden and couldn’t put it down. It’s a great summer read, but also one to enjoy if your own travel plans have been on hold recently. The education that the family gain and the memories they make are so important. So I absolutely get now why it is important to get young children exploring these weird and wonderful environments, cultures and flavours. Life lessons that will stick with them long after they’ve left any classroom.
