Charlie Walker Knihy

Having already pedalled 18,000 miles from Britain to Beijing, Charlie Walker's homeward leg carried him a further 26,000 miles through Central Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. The two-and-a-half-year journey spanned the mountains and deserts of former Soviet Republics, Afghanistan on the fearful brink of foreign withdrawal, and remote corners of the Congolese jungle. From hiking through sandstorms in the Gobi desert to barrelling down rapids in a dugout canoe, this perilous adventure, and Charlie's many encounters along the way, gives insight into the past, present, and future of often-overlooked places during periods of great change. 'A first class adventure by a first class adventurer - packed with compelling incident and insight.' - BENEDICT ALLEN 'An epic adventure, told candidly and vividly. Charlie's words make me want to go back and experience these places with the same depth.' - MARK BEAUMONT. 'A mammoth journey that makes me yearn for the formative freedom of the open road.' - ALASTAIR HUMPHREYS

Aged twenty-two, Charlie Walker left home in search of adventure. Fleeing the boredom that comes with comfort, he set off on a secondhand bicycle. The aim was simple: to pedal to the furthest point in each of Europe, Asia and Africa. He didn't train or plan. He just started. The journey was an escape from an unremarkable existence, a pursuit of hardship, and a chance to shed the complacency of middle England. From the brutality of winter on the Tibetan plateau, to the claustrophobia of the Southeast Asian jungle, the quest provided Charlie with ample opportunity to test his mettle. Ultimately, though, the toughest challenge was entirely unforeseen.

Stickmaking is an age-old craft that is just as absorbing and rewarding today as ever. This book describes some of the customs and practices used in traditional stickmaking. It encourages beginners to get started with a simple staff, but also explains advanced techniques, such as making sheep and cow horn handles, for the more experienced.

Sticks are essentially practical aides, but they can also be works of art that often become integral to the owner. They have to be strong and reliable, but are beautiful, too. This essential book covers all of these qualities--it explains the traditional principles and methods of stickmaking, but also celebrates the designs and ideas behind these creations. Written by an award-winning stickmaker, it provides a full account of this age-old craft.