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Waypoints: My Scottish Journey
Journey deep into the Scottish Highlands in the first memoir by #1 New York Times bestselling author and award-winning star of Outlander, Sam Heughan—exploring his life and reflecting on the waypoints that define him
"I had to believe, because frankly, I had come so far there could be no turning back."
In this intimate journey of self-discovery, Sam sets out along Scotland's rugged ninety-six-mile West Highland Way to map out the moments that shaped his views on dreams and ambition, family, friendship, love, and life. The result is a love letter to the wild landscape that means so much to him, full of charming, funny, wise, and searching insights into the world through his eyes.
Waypoints is a deeply personal journey that reveals as much about Sam to himself as it does to his readers.
"I had to believe, because frankly, I had come so far there could be no turning back."
In this intimate journey of self-discovery, Sam sets out along Scotland's rugged ninety-six-mile West Highland Way to map out the moments that shaped his views on dreams and ambition, family, friendship, love, and life. The result is a love letter to the wild landscape that means so much to him, full of charming, funny, wise, and searching insights into the world through his eyes.
Waypoints is a deeply personal journey that reveals as much about Sam to himself as it does to his readers.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2022
691 people are currently reading
8155 people want to read
About the author
Sam Heughan
18 books805 followersSam Heughan was born April 30, 1980 in New Galloway, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland. An accomplished stage and screen actor best known for Outlander (2014), A Princess for Christmas (2011), and A Very British Sex Scandal (2007). He is an active patron of Youth Theatre Arts Scotland and Leukemia and Lymphoma Research. He attended the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama (now the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland) located in Glasgow, Scotland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,468 reviews
October 23, 2022
Really enjoyed reading this memoir, though it was challenging at times. Not because of the subject matter or writing, of which both are beautiful. Rather, I find it difficult to read about someone else’s struggles (or successes) without reflecting on my own; that moment of awkward silence with my own stirrings usually sends me running in search of the fantasy. That’s typically why I stick to fiction — escapism is my favorite coping mechanism. I often feel paralyzed by choice or, worse, burdened by memory — in constant desire for someone to hand me a blueprint of life. Instead, I think for so many of us, life is like Sam describes his own: “A solo act without a script, improvising as I go along and hoping I don’t get lost.”
Even with the discomfort, I’m glad to have read Waypoints, which is equal parts poetic and practical, yet always fiercely earnest. It offers much beyond a narration of the author’s journey along the West Highland Way, and more than just a peek behind the version of himself that he’s carefully curated for the world and his fans (after reaching an absurd amount of fame, of course). Through the braiding of his hike and the introspection of his life, I related often to Sam’s journey, even though our lives could not be more different. As an introvert, I’m eternally grateful to have the privacy and anonymity that he lost a long while ago. And yet, I’m inspired to go inward and write more of my own story and the waypoints that have led me here. The human condition is magnificently gnarly, no?
Anyway, well done, Sam 🍻.
Even with the discomfort, I’m glad to have read Waypoints, which is equal parts poetic and practical, yet always fiercely earnest. It offers much beyond a narration of the author’s journey along the West Highland Way, and more than just a peek behind the version of himself that he’s carefully curated for the world and his fans (after reaching an absurd amount of fame, of course). Through the braiding of his hike and the introspection of his life, I related often to Sam’s journey, even though our lives could not be more different. As an introvert, I’m eternally grateful to have the privacy and anonymity that he lost a long while ago. And yet, I’m inspired to go inward and write more of my own story and the waypoints that have led me here. The human condition is magnificently gnarly, no?
Anyway, well done, Sam 🍻.
March 15, 2023
Bless Sam for opening his guarded heart and being vulnerable in this book. I just want to hug him, have a chat and a wee dram with him. The things he has went through and still manages to be so kind. Let’s get into it:
•His trust and abandonment issues due to his father not being in his life. He was very candid about how it effects his friendships and romantic relationships. Trust is huge for him so I totally get that.
•His love and respect for his mother is very evident.
•His acting journey wasn’t an easy one. So many slammed doors and disappointments, but he managed to not lose heart. He talked about times when his account was in the negative and he honestly didn’t know what he would do. He even became a bar tender and talked about the embarrassment of what it was like serving your peers (fellow actors) umm, Richard Madden. Very humbling.
•Very candid about how it’s not just women that go through body image or eating disorders, but same happens to men. He talked about how he was starving himself and when a friend told him to start eating protein. Changed his life. Lol.
•Getting that role as The King of Men, Jamie Fraser. My God he was made for this role. I love how he said when he read through the audition script he got a “feeling” that he knew this man. That’s some special kismet stuff right there. Gives me chills. He talked about how much he loves Diana Galbadon and how she shared the ending of the whole OL series with him and Maryl.
•Searching for the Sassenach!! I loved this part. How they went through actresses, but landed on this blue eyed Irish woman who hadn’t acted, but her talent was undeniable. Their chemistry test had to be broken up because they were literally wrapped up in each other and intertwined.🥵 that’s some chemistry right there. Their friendship and trust that grew through S1. What you see between them is the real deal. He felt he had to protect her and that he did. She is one of his most trusted friends. I love how he said the whole cast was super close and that he bonded with Graham Mactavish also.
•I love how open he was about how the Outlander “crew” didn’t look out for him as far as showing his c*ck during the end of season 1 and the brutal rape he endured. They filmed scenes but he stood his ground and they didn’t use them. It wasn’t necessary and wouldn’t add anything more to the rape experience. Now he makes sure there are intimacy coordinators and that the actors are protected.
•He talked about crazy fans that take things too far. Those that get reality mixed up with fiction. He is not Jamie y’all. Just a little fyi tip. Some folks are just nuts. Privacy is everything to him and he even had his address leaked by some paper in Scotland. He’s been accused of being gay, he’s been through it by so called fans. I had first hand experience with this madness on a smaller scale in the fandom and groups. What a nightmare!!!
This book was so good and I love that Sam was on an actual journey to Waypoints. The audio was fantastic narrated by him and there are parts that he actually recorded from his tent and you can hear the rain and such. Brilliantly done, Sam🫶🏽👏🏽
•His trust and abandonment issues due to his father not being in his life. He was very candid about how it effects his friendships and romantic relationships. Trust is huge for him so I totally get that.
•His love and respect for his mother is very evident.
•His acting journey wasn’t an easy one. So many slammed doors and disappointments, but he managed to not lose heart. He talked about times when his account was in the negative and he honestly didn’t know what he would do. He even became a bar tender and talked about the embarrassment of what it was like serving your peers (fellow actors) umm, Richard Madden. Very humbling.
•Very candid about how it’s not just women that go through body image or eating disorders, but same happens to men. He talked about how he was starving himself and when a friend told him to start eating protein. Changed his life. Lol.
•Getting that role as The King of Men, Jamie Fraser. My God he was made for this role. I love how he said when he read through the audition script he got a “feeling” that he knew this man. That’s some special kismet stuff right there. Gives me chills. He talked about how much he loves Diana Galbadon and how she shared the ending of the whole OL series with him and Maryl.
•Searching for the Sassenach!! I loved this part. How they went through actresses, but landed on this blue eyed Irish woman who hadn’t acted, but her talent was undeniable. Their chemistry test had to be broken up because they were literally wrapped up in each other and intertwined.🥵 that’s some chemistry right there. Their friendship and trust that grew through S1. What you see between them is the real deal. He felt he had to protect her and that he did. She is one of his most trusted friends. I love how he said the whole cast was super close and that he bonded with Graham Mactavish also.
•I love how open he was about how the Outlander “crew” didn’t look out for him as far as showing his c*ck during the end of season 1 and the brutal rape he endured. They filmed scenes but he stood his ground and they didn’t use them. It wasn’t necessary and wouldn’t add anything more to the rape experience. Now he makes sure there are intimacy coordinators and that the actors are protected.
•He talked about crazy fans that take things too far. Those that get reality mixed up with fiction. He is not Jamie y’all. Just a little fyi tip. Some folks are just nuts. Privacy is everything to him and he even had his address leaked by some paper in Scotland. He’s been accused of being gay, he’s been through it by so called fans. I had first hand experience with this madness on a smaller scale in the fandom and groups. What a nightmare!!!
This book was so good and I love that Sam was on an actual journey to Waypoints. The audio was fantastic narrated by him and there are parts that he actually recorded from his tent and you can hear the rain and such. Brilliantly done, Sam🫶🏽👏🏽
September 29, 2023
Waypoints is a very special read. Sam opens the door for us to follow him along his journey through the West Highland Way as he narrates some of his major life experiences related to his acting career journey as well as his numerous struggles hiking through the rugged 96-mile terrain. In hindsight, this is a journey-within-a-journey kind of story.
I actually listened to this on audiobook, which is narrated by Sam himself, alongside my husband. We are both huge fans of Sam’s acting after being mildly obsessed with the TV series Outlander.
Memorable Moments:
🍄The mushrooms!! Him and the mushrooms!! Oh, and the midges! 😂 😂 Even after watching all the episodes of Men in Kilts, I never saw any hint of Sam’s little obsession with the mushrooms! The midges – most definitely! But now, I’ll never think the same of the mushrooms. I am now well aware that they are always watching us. 😂 🍄
Outlander being Sam’s big break. ❤️ It was fate! He was meant to be Jamie Fraser! It was as if he was born to play that role! I’m so happy this role changed his life and meant so much for the success of his acting career.🎵 Sing me a song of a lass that is gone…say, could that lass be I? 🎵 Sort of off topic, but my heart is going to officially break when Outlander ends. So much nostalgia already…..
Sam’s honesty about male actors and their struggles with body image and eating disorders.
Sam’s experiences with obsessed fans. Apparently, there are just some fans that cannot differentiate between the actor and the character! They also simply forget they are just people. I cannot imagine being an introverted actor and enduring that extreme lack of privacy. I take my uneventful life as an introvert for granted! At least when I’m not forced to work and interact with people, I can go home and hibernate/hide lol. 😂
As Sam says, fate and luck do play a huge part in success, but persistence also seems to make a big difference. It's nice to know that for some people there is a meaning and reward that presents itself after all the struggles in this life. I am very glad Sam is one of those people! He truly deserves it. Though for some of us, perhaps if it doesn’t present itself in this life, we will await it in the hereafter. I cannot even imagine how wonderful the feeling would be realizing that every single soul-sucking unfortunate moment you have ever endured finally led you to that self-fulfilling moment you’ve always dreamed of having. Sam’s moment ironically happened in the middle of the grocery store when he got the call that he was officially cast as Jamie Fraser. He threw his head back and howled in front of everyone.
Thank you so much Sam for giving readers a glimpse into your personal journey. You are such a kind and humble soul! May your success continue and congratulations on completing the Scottish journey!! 🎉
I actually listened to this on audiobook, which is narrated by Sam himself, alongside my husband. We are both huge fans of Sam’s acting after being mildly obsessed with the TV series Outlander.
Memorable Moments:
🍄The mushrooms!! Him and the mushrooms!! Oh, and the midges! 😂 😂 Even after watching all the episodes of Men in Kilts, I never saw any hint of Sam’s little obsession with the mushrooms! The midges – most definitely! But now, I’ll never think the same of the mushrooms. I am now well aware that they are always watching us. 😂 🍄
Outlander being Sam’s big break. ❤️ It was fate! He was meant to be Jamie Fraser! It was as if he was born to play that role! I’m so happy this role changed his life and meant so much for the success of his acting career.🎵 Sing me a song of a lass that is gone…say, could that lass be I? 🎵 Sort of off topic, but my heart is going to officially break when Outlander ends. So much nostalgia already…..
Sam’s honesty about male actors and their struggles with body image and eating disorders.
Sam’s experiences with obsessed fans. Apparently, there are just some fans that cannot differentiate between the actor and the character! They also simply forget they are just people. I cannot imagine being an introverted actor and enduring that extreme lack of privacy. I take my uneventful life as an introvert for granted! At least when I’m not forced to work and interact with people, I can go home and hibernate/hide lol. 😂
As Sam says, fate and luck do play a huge part in success, but persistence also seems to make a big difference. It's nice to know that for some people there is a meaning and reward that presents itself after all the struggles in this life. I am very glad Sam is one of those people! He truly deserves it. Though for some of us, perhaps if it doesn’t present itself in this life, we will await it in the hereafter. I cannot even imagine how wonderful the feeling would be realizing that every single soul-sucking unfortunate moment you have ever endured finally led you to that self-fulfilling moment you’ve always dreamed of having. Sam’s moment ironically happened in the middle of the grocery store when he got the call that he was officially cast as Jamie Fraser. He threw his head back and howled in front of everyone.
Thank you so much Sam for giving readers a glimpse into your personal journey. You are such a kind and humble soul! May your success continue and congratulations on completing the Scottish journey!! 🎉
January 10, 2023
I read Outlander by Diana Gabaldon many years ago and really liked it. When I heard that a television series was being made, I eagerly waited for it. The made-for-tv series is just as good as the original book(s)! Actor Sam Heughan, who is cast in the lead male role of Jamie Fraser, brings his character to life.
In Waypoints, Sam tells the story of his challenging hike along Scotland’s West Highland Way during a break in shooting of the television series. After completing the hike, he also climbed the UK’s highest peak, Ben Nevis.
Sam chose to attempt the hike and climb during the off season and found the solitude and brisk air invigorating. While hiking he reflected on his life and the the challenges and adventures he faced growing up and also as an actor. The accounts of these two intertwining journeys give insight into Sam’s views on life, and the ways in which they have affected him. It’s an honest and humble reflection from a young man who doesn’t take anything for granted.
In Waypoints, Sam tells the story of his challenging hike along Scotland’s West Highland Way during a break in shooting of the television series. After completing the hike, he also climbed the UK’s highest peak, Ben Nevis.
Sam chose to attempt the hike and climb during the off season and found the solitude and brisk air invigorating. While hiking he reflected on his life and the the challenges and adventures he faced growing up and also as an actor. The accounts of these two intertwining journeys give insight into Sam’s views on life, and the ways in which they have affected him. It’s an honest and humble reflection from a young man who doesn’t take anything for granted.
January 11, 2023
Sam Heughan (of “Outlander” fame) has penned a part memoir, part Scottish travelogue that is similar to his previous work (published with “Outlander” co-star Graham McTavish), “Clanlands” but it is also very different.
After an intense period filming “Outlander”, Heughan is between roles and has a week to rest and relax. But Heughan being Heughan, he decides to walk all ninety-six miles of the West Highland Trail, which is a popular walking/hiking trail through some of the most beautiful (and treacherous) landscapes in the Highlands region of Scotland. As an avid fitness buff and marathon runner, Heughan has never been an avid hiker, so “Waypoints” will definitely cause more than a few laughs. It, too, will teach you about the acting business, Heughan’s lifetime experiences from childhood and beyond that defined him as a person, and of course, the gorgeous landscapes of Scotland and their historical importance.
This story has two sections of colour photos; one, is of Sam throughout his childhood and the other is pictures he took while hiking through the Highland trail. These are exactly right for this story, and they encapsulate both the author and the setting. Heughan breaks down the book in sections rather than chapters, each section associated with one day of his walking journey (for a total of seven, not including the foreword, prologue and epilogue).
“Waypoints” is honest, hilarious and poignant, and it is perfect for fans of “Outlander”, and of Heughan in general. Readers should expect to learn about the West Highland Trail specifically (and it’s outlying regions) and its related history, but will also enjoy learning about Sam Heughan, the person as well as the actor, as he details his real, and often disappointing, struggles with becoming someone in Hollywood. Heughan is quite the storyteller (as you would expect from his Scottish roots) and “Waypoints” is sure to introduce you to the genuine, humble and professional person that lies behind the camera. Fans of Scotland and its history, Sam Heughan, Outlander (or any and all of them), will find something to love in “Waypoints”.
After an intense period filming “Outlander”, Heughan is between roles and has a week to rest and relax. But Heughan being Heughan, he decides to walk all ninety-six miles of the West Highland Trail, which is a popular walking/hiking trail through some of the most beautiful (and treacherous) landscapes in the Highlands region of Scotland. As an avid fitness buff and marathon runner, Heughan has never been an avid hiker, so “Waypoints” will definitely cause more than a few laughs. It, too, will teach you about the acting business, Heughan’s lifetime experiences from childhood and beyond that defined him as a person, and of course, the gorgeous landscapes of Scotland and their historical importance.
This story has two sections of colour photos; one, is of Sam throughout his childhood and the other is pictures he took while hiking through the Highland trail. These are exactly right for this story, and they encapsulate both the author and the setting. Heughan breaks down the book in sections rather than chapters, each section associated with one day of his walking journey (for a total of seven, not including the foreword, prologue and epilogue).
“Waypoints” is honest, hilarious and poignant, and it is perfect for fans of “Outlander”, and of Heughan in general. Readers should expect to learn about the West Highland Trail specifically (and it’s outlying regions) and its related history, but will also enjoy learning about Sam Heughan, the person as well as the actor, as he details his real, and often disappointing, struggles with becoming someone in Hollywood. Heughan is quite the storyteller (as you would expect from his Scottish roots) and “Waypoints” is sure to introduce you to the genuine, humble and professional person that lies behind the camera. Fans of Scotland and its history, Sam Heughan, Outlander (or any and all of them), will find something to love in “Waypoints”.
January 1, 2023
WAYPOINTS is a lovely heart felt memoir which is a joy to read.
At points I felt my own feet and bones ache as it's so descriptive about his travels along the West Highland Way you feel your traipsing along with him.
I love the honesty about his struggles on his climb and throughout his life, it's not overloaded or heavy so your made to feel sorry for him, just enough that your rooting and your extremely glad Sam got his big break in Outlander because he absolutely deserved it (and that's not because I love the books and show 😉).
I'd definitely recommend it if you want something a little different and honest also without being extremely sad and you want a giggle (I don't think I'll ever look a wild mushrooms the same again, but honestly I need to know if he found his stuff again thou)📚
At points I felt my own feet and bones ache as it's so descriptive about his travels along the West Highland Way you feel your traipsing along with him.
I love the honesty about his struggles on his climb and throughout his life, it's not overloaded or heavy so your made to feel sorry for him, just enough that your rooting and your extremely glad Sam got his big break in Outlander because he absolutely deserved it (and that's not because I love the books and show 😉).
I'd definitely recommend it if you want something a little different and honest also without being extremely sad and you want a giggle (I don't think I'll ever look a wild mushrooms the same again, but honestly I need to know if he found his stuff again thou)📚
June 1, 2023
4 “Failure is not an Option” Stars
1. 96 miles is a long way
2. Toenails are overrated
3. It’s absolutely OK to cry (but you won’t get there any quicker)
4. Talking to yourself is not a sign of madness. Quite the opposite
5. Scotland is breathtaking
6. People are kind
From the touching foreward / poignant prologue, I didn’t want to put this down. I didn’t think I could admire Sam Heughan any more than I already did, but I was wrong. He hasn’t had it easy, sometimes he’s been his own worst enemy, but thankfully he gets there in the end. What strikes me most though, is that no matter how wonderful a job, his single mother accomplished in raising two young boys, his late father has a lot to answer for. His actions have had a profound effect. Sam’s earliest memory taunts him still, not to mention the protective mechanisms he’s put in place. It’s just a sad chapter of his life, period.
“We’re shaped by so many influences as kids, but I was too young to remember the one that quite possibly had a formative impact on me. For when I was 18 months old, my dad left home and never came back.”
Having a few days free is a rarity for Sam and on a whim, he decides to walk the West Highland Highway, a mere 96 miles starting in the lowlands of Glasgow, all the way to Fort William, and if that wasn’t enough of a challenge, climbing Ben Nevis at the end too 😅 Reliving this journey of self discovery, whilst sharing some amusing anecdotes/reflections of his personal/professional life, Sam’s quest for solitude is mostly achieved, if you discount mushrooms (don’t ask 😂) and fellow hikers, Graeme and Lucy. Sam’s love of nature definitely comes across and it’s inspired me to perhaps attempt this myself one day to take in the sights!
Along the way, there are many ups and downs but one thing’s for sure - I could never be an actor. Such a pride swallowing, cutthroat industry. The pressure to look/act a certain way, years of juggling part time jobs/auditions, countless rejections, contract negotiations, projects falling through, the self-doubt, living hand to mouth, renting crappy bedsits/relying on the hospitality of others; whilst friends are finally beginning to settle and put down roots, Sam’s living out of a suitcase, existing on a shoestring, still dreaming of that elusive big break. It’s exhausting. If only he could have just been himself a bit more.
“I just felt like I had to do everything I could in order to make myself selectable for a role. The right clothes, hair colour, accent, etc. they were all things I tried to adapt or change, as the audition required. It wasn’t healthy. Nor did it make me particularly happy. It just seemed like one more sacrifice I had to make in pursuit of my dream.”
On the flip side, there’s been many positives. He’s been Batman (would have loved to have seen this), starred in many theatre productions, travelled all over the world, won awards, accumulated many new skills from fencing to horse riding 😆, survived an encounter with armed Russian soldiers, yet, I really don’t know how he’s managed to bounce back when it hasn’t gone his way - the time leading up to his mini breakdown in LA made ME bloody cry.
I drifted along the Walk of Fame, where almost three thousand cement stars in the pavement commemorate past and present entertainers in the world of stage, screen and music: Patrick Swayze. Robert Wagner. Douglas Fairbanks. Keifer Sutherland. David Bowie. Paul Newman. Tourists stopped and took photos of famous names, but I just focused on the fact that other lesser-known or forgotten celebrities were simply disregarded or trampled over.
LA was laughing at me.
By now, my feet were hurting. I had walked a long way in a pair of stupid boots, with no destination in mind. I was just counting the coins in my pocket, hoping I had enough for a Metro ticket back to my hotel, when my mobile phone beeped. I opened my messages hoping perhaps that one of my last auditions might have resulted in the break I needed so desperately. Instead, I found an alert from my bank. On learning that my account had gone into the red, I just wanted to disappear. I had zero money and no way home. I was lost in LA and I couldn’t stop crying. I was a failure. Hollywood had spat me out.
Thankfully, his resilience/belief in himself paid off eventually, securing the role of a certain charismatic Highlander, a role that couldn’t have been more tailor-made. Sam is Jamie Fraser and has won the hearts of many women across the globe, including me 🫠 I especially enjoyed the photos and the Outlander content, although I wished there had been more, not just because I’m a fan but because it was just so satisfying to witness him realise his dream.
Fame however has a downside; the inevitable invasion of privacy (not that he would ever begrudge interacting with his fans - he’s just too nice), but for someone who is guarded by design, and prefers to observe from the sidelines, it’s really sad that a small minority cannot differentiate between entertainment/reality, creating false narratives about his relationships (on/off screen) and the press publishing his home address sucks. It’s not mentioned in the book, but he’s endured years of online abuse, been stalked, received death threats, criticised for the way he looks, all of which has taken a terrible toll on his mental health.
A people pleaser, philanthropist, entrepreneur, a sensitive soul - he deserves every opportunity that comes his way. Yet, even as the book was drawing to a close, his excitement for a project was disheartening, knowing that this too had failed to get off the ground. His new movie, which was challenging enough to film in the middle of a lockdown has received less than favourable reviews. It’s bound to sting. I just wanted to take him under my wing and give him a big hug 🤗
Having only read this one memoir, I don’t have anything to compare it to. I think in an effort to protect others, it’s not as revealing or as in-depth as one might expect, but he’s also quite candid at times too. Occasionally, it felt a bit repetitive, but overall, I really enjoyed the journey. I can’t imagine any fan not liking it!
1. 96 miles is a long way
2. Toenails are overrated
3. It’s absolutely OK to cry (but you won’t get there any quicker)
4. Talking to yourself is not a sign of madness. Quite the opposite
5. Scotland is breathtaking
6. People are kind
From the touching foreward / poignant prologue, I didn’t want to put this down. I didn’t think I could admire Sam Heughan any more than I already did, but I was wrong. He hasn’t had it easy, sometimes he’s been his own worst enemy, but thankfully he gets there in the end. What strikes me most though, is that no matter how wonderful a job, his single mother accomplished in raising two young boys, his late father has a lot to answer for. His actions have had a profound effect. Sam’s earliest memory taunts him still, not to mention the protective mechanisms he’s put in place. It’s just a sad chapter of his life, period.
“We’re shaped by so many influences as kids, but I was too young to remember the one that quite possibly had a formative impact on me. For when I was 18 months old, my dad left home and never came back.”
Having a few days free is a rarity for Sam and on a whim, he decides to walk the West Highland Highway, a mere 96 miles starting in the lowlands of Glasgow, all the way to Fort William, and if that wasn’t enough of a challenge, climbing Ben Nevis at the end too 😅 Reliving this journey of self discovery, whilst sharing some amusing anecdotes/reflections of his personal/professional life, Sam’s quest for solitude is mostly achieved, if you discount mushrooms (don’t ask 😂) and fellow hikers, Graeme and Lucy. Sam’s love of nature definitely comes across and it’s inspired me to perhaps attempt this myself one day to take in the sights!
Along the way, there are many ups and downs but one thing’s for sure - I could never be an actor. Such a pride swallowing, cutthroat industry. The pressure to look/act a certain way, years of juggling part time jobs/auditions, countless rejections, contract negotiations, projects falling through, the self-doubt, living hand to mouth, renting crappy bedsits/relying on the hospitality of others; whilst friends are finally beginning to settle and put down roots, Sam’s living out of a suitcase, existing on a shoestring, still dreaming of that elusive big break. It’s exhausting. If only he could have just been himself a bit more.
“I just felt like I had to do everything I could in order to make myself selectable for a role. The right clothes, hair colour, accent, etc. they were all things I tried to adapt or change, as the audition required. It wasn’t healthy. Nor did it make me particularly happy. It just seemed like one more sacrifice I had to make in pursuit of my dream.”
On the flip side, there’s been many positives. He’s been Batman (would have loved to have seen this), starred in many theatre productions, travelled all over the world, won awards, accumulated many new skills from fencing to horse riding 😆, survived an encounter with armed Russian soldiers, yet, I really don’t know how he’s managed to bounce back when it hasn’t gone his way - the time leading up to his mini breakdown in LA made ME bloody cry.
I drifted along the Walk of Fame, where almost three thousand cement stars in the pavement commemorate past and present entertainers in the world of stage, screen and music: Patrick Swayze. Robert Wagner. Douglas Fairbanks. Keifer Sutherland. David Bowie. Paul Newman. Tourists stopped and took photos of famous names, but I just focused on the fact that other lesser-known or forgotten celebrities were simply disregarded or trampled over.
LA was laughing at me.
By now, my feet were hurting. I had walked a long way in a pair of stupid boots, with no destination in mind. I was just counting the coins in my pocket, hoping I had enough for a Metro ticket back to my hotel, when my mobile phone beeped. I opened my messages hoping perhaps that one of my last auditions might have resulted in the break I needed so desperately. Instead, I found an alert from my bank. On learning that my account had gone into the red, I just wanted to disappear. I had zero money and no way home. I was lost in LA and I couldn’t stop crying. I was a failure. Hollywood had spat me out.
Thankfully, his resilience/belief in himself paid off eventually, securing the role of a certain charismatic Highlander, a role that couldn’t have been more tailor-made. Sam is Jamie Fraser and has won the hearts of many women across the globe, including me 🫠 I especially enjoyed the photos and the Outlander content, although I wished there had been more, not just because I’m a fan but because it was just so satisfying to witness him realise his dream.
Fame however has a downside; the inevitable invasion of privacy (not that he would ever begrudge interacting with his fans - he’s just too nice), but for someone who is guarded by design, and prefers to observe from the sidelines, it’s really sad that a small minority cannot differentiate between entertainment/reality, creating false narratives about his relationships (on/off screen) and the press publishing his home address sucks. It’s not mentioned in the book, but he’s endured years of online abuse, been stalked, received death threats, criticised for the way he looks, all of which has taken a terrible toll on his mental health.
A people pleaser, philanthropist, entrepreneur, a sensitive soul - he deserves every opportunity that comes his way. Yet, even as the book was drawing to a close, his excitement for a project was disheartening, knowing that this too had failed to get off the ground. His new movie, which was challenging enough to film in the middle of a lockdown has received less than favourable reviews. It’s bound to sting. I just wanted to take him under my wing and give him a big hug 🤗
Having only read this one memoir, I don’t have anything to compare it to. I think in an effort to protect others, it’s not as revealing or as in-depth as one might expect, but he’s also quite candid at times too. Occasionally, it felt a bit repetitive, but overall, I really enjoyed the journey. I can’t imagine any fan not liking it!
The last thing I want to do is encourage someone to commit themselves to me, only to find I can’t return it, and that’s when I move on. I’m more guarded and unsure. I hope for the simplicity once again. Being able to see the whole landscape below, no clouds obscuring the view. I will continue to seek it, even if I have to work harder and keep climbing.
In this time to myself, once I’d learned to enjoy the walk with no pressure to see what was over the next hill, I have come to find a new appreciation of the world around me. It doesn’t take much for me to realize that perhaps I should apply the same approach to relationships. I’m also mindful that I am the son of a man who disappeared.
Having committed to setting down roots and starting a family, my dad chose to leave us, and the last thing I want to do is follow in his footsteps.
October 27, 2022
Genres: Nonfiction/Autobiography
I read a lot of books in the above genres. This one was a little different though. The author, Sam a.k.a Jamie Fraser, told his story in two parts and then mixed them together. He told of a gruelling hike he was on by himself and then he mixed in stories of his childhood, his schooling, the way he got into acting and how he landed the part of Jamie Fraser in the Outlander series.
He had a unique perspective plus he had a gentle and fun sense of humor. It all worked together. It was sweet and it made me smile. I'd expect nothing less from this author. So 4 stars.
I read a lot of books in the above genres. This one was a little different though. The author, Sam a.k.a Jamie Fraser, told his story in two parts and then mixed them together. He told of a gruelling hike he was on by himself and then he mixed in stories of his childhood, his schooling, the way he got into acting and how he landed the part of Jamie Fraser in the Outlander series.
He had a unique perspective plus he had a gentle and fun sense of humor. It all worked together. It was sweet and it made me smile. I'd expect nothing less from this author. So 4 stars.
October 24, 2022
What a gift Sam has given himself and his fans. I loved the flow of the book going from present situation to reflecting on the past.
He reveals just enough of what has shaped him as a man/actor, while still maintaining the privacy he has come to covet for his personal relationships with those closest to him.
This is a perfect balance of adventure, reflection, humor (pro-tip: never go back for a 2nd bowl), and most importantly...personal growth.
Anyone that has childhood trauma (even if they didn't know it at the time) will be able to relate and for those who have "put in the work" to heal that trauma you may see glimpses of your own journey.
He reveals just enough of what has shaped him as a man/actor, while still maintaining the privacy he has come to covet for his personal relationships with those closest to him.
This is a perfect balance of adventure, reflection, humor (pro-tip: never go back for a 2nd bowl), and most importantly...personal growth.
Anyone that has childhood trauma (even if they didn't know it at the time) will be able to relate and for those who have "put in the work" to heal that trauma you may see glimpses of your own journey.
October 27, 2022
This has been my most anticipated book as of late. I FINALLY read Outlander in August and decided that reading the rest of the series was quite daunting given my enormous TBR. So I decide to watch the show and WHO IS THIS GUY? My Librarian self was very excited to see that he was about to publish a memoir- Yay! I then proceed to preorder the audiobook, then decide to preorder the book as well, then decide to find an autographed copy, access to a live stream, and spend the most I've ever spent on a single book - am I some sort of fan girl now???
In all seriousness, this is such a great book. Part adventure story, part memoir, part motivational. Honestly, it made me take a look at my own life and think hard about things that I'd like to, what's missing, and what I can do about it. You don't have to know anything about Sam or Scotland to enjoy this book and reflect his journey back onto your own.
If you are a fan of memoirs (especially celebrity memoirs) - I cannot recommend the audiobook version of this enough 5/5!
If you're Sam Heughan and you're reading this - thank you for sharing your story. Let's be friends and have a dram!
In all seriousness, this is such a great book. Part adventure story, part memoir, part motivational. Honestly, it made me take a look at my own life and think hard about things that I'd like to, what's missing, and what I can do about it. You don't have to know anything about Sam or Scotland to enjoy this book and reflect his journey back onto your own.
If you are a fan of memoirs (especially celebrity memoirs) - I cannot recommend the audiobook version of this enough 5/5!
If you're Sam Heughan and you're reading this - thank you for sharing your story. Let's be friends and have a dram!
November 3, 2022
Wow! I mean, as a librarian and history nerd, anything Scotland is my jam!
So happy to get to read this one early! It's exceptional.
His love of language is apparent in the pages of this beautiful journey on his life, his defining moments and his more intimate memories that he reveals to fans and readers for the first time.
I laughed, I cried and I loved every page. I only hope that he writes more books, plays, screenplays and more. He has a gift of storytelling and that needs to be shared with the world!
So happy to get to read this one early! It's exceptional.
His love of language is apparent in the pages of this beautiful journey on his life, his defining moments and his more intimate memories that he reveals to fans and readers for the first time.
I laughed, I cried and I loved every page. I only hope that he writes more books, plays, screenplays and more. He has a gift of storytelling and that needs to be shared with the world!
October 25, 2022
Having just finished the West Highland Way exactly 20 days ago, this was incredibly meaningful and enjoyable to listen to. I found myself meandering through my day listening nonstop and also smiling broadly, nodding and even laughing out loud to myself. I was just there. Sam’s travel dialogue was great. I had vivid images in my mind of each stage. I am also a photographer and documented each leg of this walk and found myself going back to my images, reliving it all. Will be recommending this to anyone considering walking the WHW. I also appreciated Sam’s personal and career story. Outlander and MPC actually literally changed my life back in 2015. I summited Kilimanjaro in 2016 as my “peak challenge” of that year. I found health and community and friendships through outlander and MPC groups that I still benefit from to this day. Thanks for this, Sam! It’s a beautiful story, a beautiful life and a beautiful trek.
November 26, 2022
I love Sam, but this was hard to read. Some parts felt unnecessary and just a bit cringe. It was a debate between 3 or 2 stars but there was parts I enjoyed and Scotland is magical as he mentions so that made it 3 stars for me.
October 28, 2022
Star of Outlander, Sam Heughan, takes us on a journey across the 96 mile West Highland Way in Scotland, and along the way reveals the waypoints of his life. Planned on a whim, completely overpacked (although those walking sticks did come in handy), and requiring multiple days of travel in less than ideal conditions, Sam uses this time to find himself and reconnect with the world around him. He reflects on his love for the outdoors, his country and his career. His insights into his own life are interwoven along his path over those many miles, ending at the top of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in Scotland. Needless to say there is struggle, self doubt, humor. pain, and determination along the way, both on the trail and on reflecting about his own life so far. A love letter to his country and his art, Waypoints will entertain, inspire and challenge you.
November 6, 2022
When I was younger I was under the impression that celebrities write memoirs because it’s another way of them talking about themselves (ok, technically that is what they are). Now I’m older and in my wise ways have decided that memoirs act as a bridge to understand that “celebrities” are just as human as us and have gone through struggles and unending effort to be get where they are to write a memoir. I have such respect for someone who was willing to chase a dream for so many years and have such a positive outlook of their life.
Am I tempted to walk ridiculous miles to then walk up a ridiculously tall mountain? Hell nope. I am however tempted to stay in a lil Scottish hotel and read by a fire.
All opinions are my own and have in no way been influenced at all by Outlander…….
Am I tempted to walk ridiculous miles to then walk up a ridiculously tall mountain? Hell nope. I am however tempted to stay in a lil Scottish hotel and read by a fire.
All opinions are my own and have in no way been influenced at all by Outlander…….
November 7, 2022
This was a nice insight into Sam's background, his rise to acting, and even his family. It was juxtaposed nicely with his impulse hike of the West Highland Way, though it did feel a little clunky sometimes in the transitions. For fans of Heughan's this will be a great introduction.
March 10, 2024
4.5 Stars / 0 Steam Fans
Loved this journey and reflection that Sam Heughan took us on. Learning how he became an actor and his inspiration was interesting. I suggest listening to the audiobook because Sam narrates and adds a few actual audio clips from the journey where you get to hear the rain and exhaustion of his self-reflection.
Video review available in Week 10: Mar 3 – Mar 9, 2024, weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk (https://www.youtube.com/@stephsromanc...)
Loved this journey and reflection that Sam Heughan took us on. Learning how he became an actor and his inspiration was interesting. I suggest listening to the audiobook because Sam narrates and adds a few actual audio clips from the journey where you get to hear the rain and exhaustion of his self-reflection.
Video review available in Week 10: Mar 3 – Mar 9, 2024, weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk (https://www.youtube.com/@stephsromanc...)
November 2, 2022
Let’s be honest. I would have probably given this book five stars just because I’m such a huge fan of Sam Heughan but after reading it I’m giving it five stars because it’s so good!
Sam alternates between stories of his walk last fall along the 96 mile West Highland Way and to the top of Ben Nevis and memories about his life from childhood till now.
He starts with a prologue about visiting his father just before his death. His father disappeared from his life when he was very young and he only saw him once until he visited him shortly before his death. It was an eerily familiar story. My own father left when I was young and, like Sam, I saw him one time until I visited when I learned he was going to die. The absence of his father, according to Sam, shaped his life as much as his presence would have. I understand exactly what he means.
He talks about his mother with love and admiration for giving him a childhood that gave him the confidence to pursue his dream of acting. The stories about acting school and his struggles and wins as he went after his career are honest and from the heart. His excitement when he got the phone call saying he’d gotten the part of Jamie Fraser made me smile! He feels like all the work he put in helped him to be successful in the role of Jamie Fraser. And, he says that “a lot of his own character is in Jamie”, and he felt like he knew him from the first pages of the script but that he can also explore deep, dark emotions while playing Jamie.
I loved the sections about his walk, what he learned from the other hikers he met like Graeme and Lucy, and what he learned from being alone, without his busy schedule filling every minute. He talks about learning not to feel rushed and to stay in the moment instead of the future or the past. He is so honest about how this affected past relationships and his hope that the lessons he’s learned during the walk will change that.
One of the things that fascinates me about Outlander is how the fans are drawn to the story and the actors. I’m not typically a fan girl and it seems lots of other people are the same. But with Outlander, the books and the show, they have been pulled in just like I am. I think a lot of it is from Diana Gabaldon’s amazing writing skills, and that the cast has brought her books to life so perfectly. But the big draw is how well Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe portray Jamie and Claire. I loved it when he described their audition together and how everything fell into place. I don’t think any of us can imagine anyone being better as Jamie and Claire.
He tells us a lot about himself in this book and is very open and honest. I didn’t think I could like Sam Heughan more than I do, but after reading this book I found out it was possible to like him even more.
Sam alternates between stories of his walk last fall along the 96 mile West Highland Way and to the top of Ben Nevis and memories about his life from childhood till now.
He starts with a prologue about visiting his father just before his death. His father disappeared from his life when he was very young and he only saw him once until he visited him shortly before his death. It was an eerily familiar story. My own father left when I was young and, like Sam, I saw him one time until I visited when I learned he was going to die. The absence of his father, according to Sam, shaped his life as much as his presence would have. I understand exactly what he means.
He talks about his mother with love and admiration for giving him a childhood that gave him the confidence to pursue his dream of acting. The stories about acting school and his struggles and wins as he went after his career are honest and from the heart. His excitement when he got the phone call saying he’d gotten the part of Jamie Fraser made me smile! He feels like all the work he put in helped him to be successful in the role of Jamie Fraser. And, he says that “a lot of his own character is in Jamie”, and he felt like he knew him from the first pages of the script but that he can also explore deep, dark emotions while playing Jamie.
I loved the sections about his walk, what he learned from the other hikers he met like Graeme and Lucy, and what he learned from being alone, without his busy schedule filling every minute. He talks about learning not to feel rushed and to stay in the moment instead of the future or the past. He is so honest about how this affected past relationships and his hope that the lessons he’s learned during the walk will change that.
One of the things that fascinates me about Outlander is how the fans are drawn to the story and the actors. I’m not typically a fan girl and it seems lots of other people are the same. But with Outlander, the books and the show, they have been pulled in just like I am. I think a lot of it is from Diana Gabaldon’s amazing writing skills, and that the cast has brought her books to life so perfectly. But the big draw is how well Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe portray Jamie and Claire. I loved it when he described their audition together and how everything fell into place. I don’t think any of us can imagine anyone being better as Jamie and Claire.
He tells us a lot about himself in this book and is very open and honest. I didn’t think I could like Sam Heughan more than I do, but after reading this book I found out it was possible to like him even more.
November 7, 2022
I really enjoyed the audiobook of Sam’s memoir – he narrates it himself. If you are an Outlander fan and lover of all things Scottish – this is for you! In this book, Sam talks about his life growing up, struggles of not having a father in his life, the start of his acting career, his travels in Scotland and so much more. The audio has some nice extra clips of his journey throughout Scotland as he traveled and hiked throughout the land too. We learned a lot about acting, film making and how it works, plus the details of Scotland itself was beautiful and immersive. He shares with us how he juggles priorities, projects, and the way he told this was like a true story of his life. It’s also so eye opening how difficult filming specific scenes can be, especially in Outlander and how quickly he became a “star” overnight – how people don’t see him as Sam but Jamie – how you must take time for yourself when you can, but he also makes sure to provide a nice experience for fans too. He’s an overall great guy with a passion for all things Scottish and I loved learning more about his life since I am such a big fan of the show. Overall, I enjoyed this and highly recommend as an audio book because Sam’s narration is *chef’s kiss*! 4 stars
Read
July 30, 2023He could read my car user manual, and I would still listen.
March 11, 2023
Perfectly serviceable, light reading. I probably would’ve enjoyed it much more if I had been approaching this as a fan of Sam Heughan’s, rather than someone who really wants to know what it’s like to hike the West Highland Way. It’s like a very watered down version of Wild. Interestingly, when I finished Wild, I knew the author was absolutely not my sort of person, but I respected the hell out of what she did, and was very emotional about her accomplishments. Conversely, in this book, Sam Heughan seems to be a genuinely nice person, and apparently sane. I would absolutely enjoy a whisky or a beer with him. The book was my only informative. Was I moved emotionally by either his personal experiences or his hike? No.
I did enjoy the mushrooms. They were the best part.
I did enjoy the mushrooms. They were the best part.
March 13, 2023
Insightfull, well written, frank and sensitive. Loved it!!
And the Audible version--swoonworthy!--with daily notes by the author in his distinctive accent! Soooooo good!
And the Audible version--swoonworthy!--with daily notes by the author in his distinctive accent! Soooooo good!
April 16, 2023
4.5 stars.
Very engaging and entertaining. The audiobook is narrated by the author, which makes it extra fun. Definitely worth checking out.
Very engaging and entertaining. The audiobook is narrated by the author, which makes it extra fun. Definitely worth checking out.
Read
February 12, 2024I really enjoyed this one ☺️☺️ having watched Sam on Outlander and his other travel show - I have always really appreciated his personality. We get to see a bit deeper and edgier side to him in this memoir!
The way the story flowed - from intertwining his career path to his insane hiking journey through the famous Scotland trail - and how it all came together - was just fantastic!
Sam's story is unique within it's own way, but I am sure very relatable for people who were young that never felt like they fit in, felt lost, and were not sure where life was taking them along the way.
Though there isn't any religious undertone - I enjoyed Sam's connection to nature and how powerful that alone can be to fill our spiritual connection
My favorite take aways:
1. 96 miles is a long way
2. Toenails are overrated
3. It’s absolutely OK to cry (but you won’t get there any quicker)
4. Talking to yourself is not a sign of madness. Quite the opposite
5. Scotland is breathtaking
6. People are kind
Also: Stay in the moment, appreciate what you have now, and give love and don't be afraid to receive it.
The way the story flowed - from intertwining his career path to his insane hiking journey through the famous Scotland trail - and how it all came together - was just fantastic!
Sam's story is unique within it's own way, but I am sure very relatable for people who were young that never felt like they fit in, felt lost, and were not sure where life was taking them along the way.
Though there isn't any religious undertone - I enjoyed Sam's connection to nature and how powerful that alone can be to fill our spiritual connection
My favorite take aways:
1. 96 miles is a long way
2. Toenails are overrated
3. It’s absolutely OK to cry (but you won’t get there any quicker)
4. Talking to yourself is not a sign of madness. Quite the opposite
5. Scotland is breathtaking
6. People are kind
Also: Stay in the moment, appreciate what you have now, and give love and don't be afraid to receive it.
October 27, 2022
Loved hearing about his life up until this point plus the physical journey as he spends a week hiking the West Highland Way. Highly recommend the audio because ACCENT and he even has some audio recordings from his hike that include the sounds of nature around him.
November 29, 2022
Sam Heughan aka Jaime Frasier from Outlander woke up one morning and decided he wanted to walk the West Highland Way, a hiking path across Scotland. This book is the narration of his journey mixed with stories from his life. I found this whole story to be really self-indulgent. I enjoyed listening to his lovely accent, but honestly this would never have been published except for the fact that he is the star of a hit TV series. He’s lead a pretty charmed life and this story just isn’t all that interesting.
April 8, 2023
I love sam anyway. But now i love and respect him even more. What a truly heartfelt book. I was laughing and crying. And cheering.
I love the fact he is so comfortable in his own company. And he is so lovely to everyone he meets.
A very insightful and inspiring book. Highly highly recommend it
I mean look at my profile pic!! Its of me sam and a friend. Truly lovely man ♥️
I love the fact he is so comfortable in his own company. And he is so lovely to everyone he meets.
A very insightful and inspiring book. Highly highly recommend it
I mean look at my profile pic!! Its of me sam and a friend. Truly lovely man ♥️
March 30, 2024
Fans van de boeken van Diana Gabaldon (de Reiziger- serie) en met name de daarop gebaseerde tv serie ‘Outlander‘, kennen Sam Heughan uiteraard. Hij vertolkt het personage van Jamie Fraser.
Eerlijk is eerlijk, Sam Heughan is een knappe verschijning en naar wat ik hoor is hij geknipt voor zijn rol in de serie.
Zelf las ik de boeken en keek ik de tv serie niet.
Wat mij het meest aan Sam Heughan intrigeert, is dat hij een Schot is en ook nog eens zijn wandeling over de West Highland Way met ons deelt in zijn boek ‘Mijlpalen‘.
En wat een reis was dit!
In dit boek neemt Sam Heughan ons niet alleen mee op een wandeltocht over de West Highland Way, welke van Glasgow tot Fort William loopt (dwars door de hooglanden), maar hij wisselt ook af met delen uit zijn persoonlijk leven.
En zijn persoonlijk leven is een leven vol pieken maar zeker ook dalen. En dit was bijzonder om te lezen.
In ‘Mijlpalen‘ lezen we het verhaal van iemand die door het spontane idee van een wandeltocht, uiteindelijk stilstaat bij hoe zijn leven is verlopen, welke ontwikkelingen hij heeft doorgemaakt en wat er nu daadwerkelijk toe doet in het leven.
Sam vertelt de lezer over hoe hij is opgegroeid en hoe hij vooral door zijn creatieve moeder en oudere broer is gevormd in zijn jongere jaren. Met een vader die ontbrak in zijn leven, vervulde zijn moeder meerdere rollen. Ze zorgde ervoor dat haar zonen niets tekort kwamen.
Sam vertelt over zijn liefde voor theater. Zijn liefde voor het spelen van een rol waarin hij zich kan verliezen en vertelt vooral ook, hoe ontzettend moeilijk het is om jezelf te onderscheiden van al die anderen die net als jij acteur in een grote productie zouden willen zijn.
Dat de weg naar zijn uiteindelijke doorbraak zeker niet over rozen is gegaan, wordt absoluut meer dan duidelijk.
Vooral voor de fans hoop ik dat, net als bij mij, de menselijke kant van Sam duidelijk wordt. Dat je niet zomaar acteur wordt en dat als het lukt, je ook nog gewoon een mens bent die zijn werk doet.
Sam vertelt ons over alle ups en downs, zijn onzekerheden als acteur, maar ook de dingen die hij soms deed ten koste van zichzelf.
Dat dit wordt afgewisseld met het hier en nu tijdens zijn wandeltocht, maakte het boek voor mij absoluut prettig leesbaar.
Behalve dat hij heerlijk kan schrijven en ook de nodige humor weet toe te voegen, zie je door beide kanten te lezen een hele mooie ontwikkeling ontstaan.
En wat is er mooier dan het mee mogen beleven van een ontwikkeling van een mooi mens?
Sam’s passies voor het toneel, zijn werk, zijn whisky en Schotland komen prachtig en duidelijk over.
Vooral zijn inspirerende wandeltocht, waarbij hij zeer waardevolle ontdekkingen doet over zichzelf, zet de lezer aan het nadenken over diens eigen leven.
Dit boek, het verhaal van Sam en daarnaast zijn belevenissen van zijn wandeltocht, brachten mij voor mijn gevoel op de één of andere manier heel dicht bij Sam.
En alhoewel ik hem als acteur dus eigenlijk niet ken, ben ik toch op een bepaalde manier van hem gaan houden als de persoon die hij is.
Conclusie
‘Mijlpalen‘ is wat mij betreft een ontzettend inspirerend boek.
Voor de fans is het leuk om de persoon achter de acteur te leren kennen, maar dit is ook zeker het geval voor mensen zoals ik die het boek oppakken vanwege Schotland en een bijzondere wandeltocht.
Het was een feestje om met Sam mee te mogen op zijn inspirerende hike waar hij zichzelf met regelmaat tegen komt, maar waar hij ook een prachtige ontwikkeling doormaakt.
Voor mij kwam absoluut duidelijk naar voren dat het leven in het hier en nu ontzettend belangrijk is.
Een ieder wordt op de reis door het leven geconfronteerd met zichzelf en de dingen die er nog te leren zijn.
Een prachtig en inspirerend boek over een prachtig mens dat net als iedereen elke dag weer iets leert over zichzelf en ernaar streeft om zichzelf te zijn in een wereld die soms om iets anders vraagt.
Eerlijk is eerlijk, Sam Heughan is een knappe verschijning en naar wat ik hoor is hij geknipt voor zijn rol in de serie.
Zelf las ik de boeken en keek ik de tv serie niet.
Wat mij het meest aan Sam Heughan intrigeert, is dat hij een Schot is en ook nog eens zijn wandeling over de West Highland Way met ons deelt in zijn boek ‘Mijlpalen‘.
En wat een reis was dit!
In dit boek neemt Sam Heughan ons niet alleen mee op een wandeltocht over de West Highland Way, welke van Glasgow tot Fort William loopt (dwars door de hooglanden), maar hij wisselt ook af met delen uit zijn persoonlijk leven.
En zijn persoonlijk leven is een leven vol pieken maar zeker ook dalen. En dit was bijzonder om te lezen.
In ‘Mijlpalen‘ lezen we het verhaal van iemand die door het spontane idee van een wandeltocht, uiteindelijk stilstaat bij hoe zijn leven is verlopen, welke ontwikkelingen hij heeft doorgemaakt en wat er nu daadwerkelijk toe doet in het leven.
Sam vertelt de lezer over hoe hij is opgegroeid en hoe hij vooral door zijn creatieve moeder en oudere broer is gevormd in zijn jongere jaren. Met een vader die ontbrak in zijn leven, vervulde zijn moeder meerdere rollen. Ze zorgde ervoor dat haar zonen niets tekort kwamen.
Sam vertelt over zijn liefde voor theater. Zijn liefde voor het spelen van een rol waarin hij zich kan verliezen en vertelt vooral ook, hoe ontzettend moeilijk het is om jezelf te onderscheiden van al die anderen die net als jij acteur in een grote productie zouden willen zijn.
Dat de weg naar zijn uiteindelijke doorbraak zeker niet over rozen is gegaan, wordt absoluut meer dan duidelijk.
Vooral voor de fans hoop ik dat, net als bij mij, de menselijke kant van Sam duidelijk wordt. Dat je niet zomaar acteur wordt en dat als het lukt, je ook nog gewoon een mens bent die zijn werk doet.
Sam vertelt ons over alle ups en downs, zijn onzekerheden als acteur, maar ook de dingen die hij soms deed ten koste van zichzelf.
Dat dit wordt afgewisseld met het hier en nu tijdens zijn wandeltocht, maakte het boek voor mij absoluut prettig leesbaar.
Behalve dat hij heerlijk kan schrijven en ook de nodige humor weet toe te voegen, zie je door beide kanten te lezen een hele mooie ontwikkeling ontstaan.
En wat is er mooier dan het mee mogen beleven van een ontwikkeling van een mooi mens?
Sam’s passies voor het toneel, zijn werk, zijn whisky en Schotland komen prachtig en duidelijk over.
Vooral zijn inspirerende wandeltocht, waarbij hij zeer waardevolle ontdekkingen doet over zichzelf, zet de lezer aan het nadenken over diens eigen leven.
Dit boek, het verhaal van Sam en daarnaast zijn belevenissen van zijn wandeltocht, brachten mij voor mijn gevoel op de één of andere manier heel dicht bij Sam.
En alhoewel ik hem als acteur dus eigenlijk niet ken, ben ik toch op een bepaalde manier van hem gaan houden als de persoon die hij is.
Conclusie
‘Mijlpalen‘ is wat mij betreft een ontzettend inspirerend boek.
Voor de fans is het leuk om de persoon achter de acteur te leren kennen, maar dit is ook zeker het geval voor mensen zoals ik die het boek oppakken vanwege Schotland en een bijzondere wandeltocht.
Het was een feestje om met Sam mee te mogen op zijn inspirerende hike waar hij zichzelf met regelmaat tegen komt, maar waar hij ook een prachtige ontwikkeling doormaakt.
Voor mij kwam absoluut duidelijk naar voren dat het leven in het hier en nu ontzettend belangrijk is.
Een ieder wordt op de reis door het leven geconfronteerd met zichzelf en de dingen die er nog te leren zijn.
Een prachtig en inspirerend boek over een prachtig mens dat net als iedereen elke dag weer iets leert over zichzelf en ernaar streeft om zichzelf te zijn in een wereld die soms om iets anders vraagt.
August 10, 2023
5⭐️
I came to know who Sam Heughan was from his role as Jamie Fraser in Outlander. I was impressed by his acting and ability to portray the various versions of Jamie Fraser throughout the series. I had no idea that this show had been his big break, but I immediately fell in love with the show and began to follow what productions Sam was a part of. When I found out Sam would be releasing Waypoints, I immediately added it to my list to read. However, when I found out that he would read the story for the audiobook, I knew that would be the medium through which I'd have to receive this story. Listening to the audiobook is so worth it—more than I ever expected. I mean, 8 hours of a Scottish accent was good enough for me, but he came across as so charismatic and goofy, making jokes along the way and adding in extra comments. He made it so easy to sit back, relax, and enjoy the memoir.
In Waypoints, Sam covers his journey through the Scottish Highlands during a week-long break and speaks about his childhood and his journey to becoming the actor he is today. Throughout this journey, Sam does a great job at really sharing how he works through his own waypoints in his life. I found myself reflecting on those I'd experienced as well, which I'll say is not always a fun thing. Through his telling, though, I was encouraged to really view how far I've come amongst it all. I really feel like I know Sam better as an individual and not only as an incredible actor. It was nice to hear firsthand his perspective on his role as Jamie in Outlander as well as what it was like filming some of the scenes that I thought were extremely hard to watch as a viewer. Discover how dedication, friendship/companionship, and determination get Sam to complete the 96-mile West Highland Way trek through the Scottish Highlands.
I came to know who Sam Heughan was from his role as Jamie Fraser in Outlander. I was impressed by his acting and ability to portray the various versions of Jamie Fraser throughout the series. I had no idea that this show had been his big break, but I immediately fell in love with the show and began to follow what productions Sam was a part of. When I found out Sam would be releasing Waypoints, I immediately added it to my list to read. However, when I found out that he would read the story for the audiobook, I knew that would be the medium through which I'd have to receive this story. Listening to the audiobook is so worth it—more than I ever expected. I mean, 8 hours of a Scottish accent was good enough for me, but he came across as so charismatic and goofy, making jokes along the way and adding in extra comments. He made it so easy to sit back, relax, and enjoy the memoir.
In Waypoints, Sam covers his journey through the Scottish Highlands during a week-long break and speaks about his childhood and his journey to becoming the actor he is today. Throughout this journey, Sam does a great job at really sharing how he works through his own waypoints in his life. I found myself reflecting on those I'd experienced as well, which I'll say is not always a fun thing. Through his telling, though, I was encouraged to really view how far I've come amongst it all. I really feel like I know Sam better as an individual and not only as an incredible actor. It was nice to hear firsthand his perspective on his role as Jamie in Outlander as well as what it was like filming some of the scenes that I thought were extremely hard to watch as a viewer. Discover how dedication, friendship/companionship, and determination get Sam to complete the 96-mile West Highland Way trek through the Scottish Highlands.
September 26, 2024
5
If I wasn't already charmed by the entire journey Sam took me on in this novel, I would've been when he tried to pronounce Okanagan. As a Canadian, that truly was the best part.
This is an incredible memoir told over the course of him hiking the West Highland Trail. As someone who loves to hike and get outdoors, I immediately connected to Sam, the real Sam. No Jamie Fraser where most people recognize him from, but Sam Heughan. Unprepared hiker. Me too, man. Me too. And yes, not ditching your hiking poles was the best choice you could've made.
I loved hearing his journey to being an actor. As one would expect it was filled with many ups and downs. Getting cast in Outlander came after a lot of disappointment and him having to learn to not let that deter him. As an aspiring writer going through countless rejections for my romance novel, I could relate to what he said about just accepting the rejection is basically your life now, but don't let it deter you. Let it drive you to learn more, and challenge yourself further in your craft.
Along the journey of this novel, you also learn that Sam is quite a character taking mushroom selfies... whatever that is. A reminder that while we know him as arguably the greatest fictional highlander ever created, he's really just Sam.
Overall! I loved this book so much, and it is on my list of books that I recommend everyone read at some point. It's fast, easy to consume, and just a really well done story!
Also, not a whiskey fan myself, but feeling the desire for a dram of The Sassenach.
If I wasn't already charmed by the entire journey Sam took me on in this novel, I would've been when he tried to pronounce Okanagan. As a Canadian, that truly was the best part.
This is an incredible memoir told over the course of him hiking the West Highland Trail. As someone who loves to hike and get outdoors, I immediately connected to Sam, the real Sam. No Jamie Fraser where most people recognize him from, but Sam Heughan. Unprepared hiker. Me too, man. Me too. And yes, not ditching your hiking poles was the best choice you could've made.
I loved hearing his journey to being an actor. As one would expect it was filled with many ups and downs. Getting cast in Outlander came after a lot of disappointment and him having to learn to not let that deter him. As an aspiring writer going through countless rejections for my romance novel, I could relate to what he said about just accepting the rejection is basically your life now, but don't let it deter you. Let it drive you to learn more, and challenge yourself further in your craft.
Along the journey of this novel, you also learn that Sam is quite a character taking mushroom selfies... whatever that is. A reminder that while we know him as arguably the greatest fictional highlander ever created, he's really just Sam.
Overall! I loved this book so much, and it is on my list of books that I recommend everyone read at some point. It's fast, easy to consume, and just a really well done story!
Also, not a whiskey fan myself, but feeling the desire for a dram of The Sassenach.
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