This book is based on the BBC TV program where Mr. Palin traveled to all of the places where Ernest Hemingway had lived and traveled. One can't really say the program "follows Hemingway's footsteps" because some sequences are presented out of order, but it's all there:

Chicago and northern Illinois (Hemingway's youth)
Italy (WW I and duck hunting)
Paris (Hemingway's start as an author)
Spain (running with the bulls, bullfighting)
Key West (fishing, boxing)
Africa (hunting, airplane crash injuries)
Cuba (fishing, Hemingway's home for 20 years)
Montana and Idaho (dude ranches, Hemingway's death)

Each chapter that describes a place almost invariably leaves the reader smiling and thinking that it would be interesting to visit that place oneself.

Incidentally, my high opinion of this book (and the associated TV program) has nothing to do with any interest in Hemingway's authorship. I read "The Old Man and the Sea" when I was in high school, and have not read anything by Hemingway since. Still, I find his life interesting, and I think that Michael Palin has made a great travelogue by visiting the various places and telling about Hemingway's life.

I can especially recommend the audio version of this book, which is read by Michael Palin himself. He does a great job of delivering the dialog of the various people, all with their different accents.

Of course, the audio version of the book does not include the beautiful photographs, so the very best strategy might be to get both, and listen to the audio version while commuting and then look at the pictures when you get home.

Rennie Petersen


An amazing journey in Hemingway's footsteps.   October 5, 2001
 10 out of 10 found this review helpful

This book takes you on a journey through different continents and cultures. It allows you to travel the world in the company of a traveller who is not only experienced, but also sensitive to local customs and traditions.

As you read it you get to know not only the author, but you feel as if you have spent time in Hemingway's company. The book is richly illustrated with stunning photographs which tell a lot in addition to the printed text.

The numerous quotations from Hemingway's novels help to make the book more coherent, and also give insight on Hemingway's life.

An excellent read for Hemingway fans, for those who know little or nothing about him, or for anyone who is interested in seeing different cultures and ways of life.