Sam Manicom, Author and Motorcycle Adventurer.
For me, a travel book has to include a mix of challenge, awe, intrigue, ‘I didn’t know that’ moments, humour, the unexpected, and self-discovery moments. Rebirth has all of these. I also want to like the main character, and I love travel books which have a series of threads intertwined. Mark Holmes has done that with a light touch and these threads are part of what makes this book such a page turner. His motorcycle is just one of those threads.
I need to say that I feared, from the title and subtitle, that this book might be a long tale of heartbreak and depression around the world, with a flash of new life and optimism towards the end. My fears were completely wrong. This is a very personal story told in such a way that you want to know what happens next. He has walked the tightrope very nicely and not once did I feel that I had to let my eyes skim over any of the sections. The descriptions are interesting and take you to the scenes without overkill and I really enjoyed the cultural information that he has woven in. And yes, he made me laugh. This book is a keeper!
Gareth Richmond, on Twitter.
“I haven’t been engaged in such a glorious book in so long. Beautifully written, it felt like being on your journey with you. A truly inspirational read. I look up to you with such admiration.
When life gives you lemons.”
Paddy Tyson, Editor – Overland
"By the time he reaches Turkey, and certainly Iran, …his heart, attitude and mind is opening, and his ability to engage people in conversation is admirable”.
“… it’s a story of change, loss and very new love, from a man who learns how to smile”.
“… incredible outcome”.
“Rebirth is well written and flows nicely”.
Leigh Wilkins, Editor – Traverse
“Mark discovers a love for others, … and love of a very special kind”
“… a unique story offering a different perspective to motorcycle travel”
