Thinking On My Feet by Kate Humble

Book Review Jun 01, 2023

My review

3/5 stars

I stumbled across this in my local supermarket book exchange, not having realised that Kate Humble was an author as well as TV presenter, so I thought I'd give it a go. I enjoyed the basic premise of the book in the blurb and like the author's presenting style, so I figured I'd get something out of the book.

This was a book where the author's passion for the subject matter was evident on every page. She wrote with such eloquence about the outdoor world, taking the reader on a very immersive journey through all of her walking spots and writing well about her surroundings.

The diary format was a nice touch, as it highlighted the value and importance of walking in every season and all weathers. It also offered insight into the fact that walking appears to be very much a way of life for the author rather than a pastime or a hobby.

I did struggle to stay engaged with the narrative at times, as the idea of being able to invest as much time as the author does in walking feels a little alien to me and was hard to relate to.

It was an easy read, with a defined passion and some gentle teachings to offer, but it hasn't stuck with me particularly well and was obscure in it's messaging at times.

Book blurb

Thinking on My Feet tells the story of Kate's walking year - shining a light on the benefits of this simple activity. Kate's inspiring narrative not only records her walks (and runs) throughout a single year, but also charts her feelings and impressions throughout - capturing the perspectives that only a journey on foot allows - and shares the outcomes: a problem solved, a mood lifted, an idea or opportunity borne. As she explores the reasons why we walk, whether for creative energy, challenge and pleasure, or therapeutic benefits, Kate's reflections and insights will encourage, motivate and spur readers into action.

Also featured are Kate's walks with others who have discovered the magical, soothing effect of putting one foot in front of the other - the artist who walks to find inspiration for his next painting; the man who takes people battling with addiction to climb mountains; the woman who walked every footpath in Wales (3,700 miles) when she discovered she had cancer.

This book will inspire you to change your perspective by applying walking to your daily endeavours.