The story begins with her “why” and swiftly moves to her first night in Spain, where she finds herself dining alone, wondering if she’ll survive this independent month-long excursion. Her doubts blossom, but then she crosses paths with other “pilgrims” on a similar quest—one of self-discovery, courage shoring, and hoping to connect with their cultural roots. The initial butterflies wane, and after her first restless night on a bunk in the village of St-Jean-Pied-de-Port at an albergue (hostel) along the border of France, she takes a confident commencing step. The moment for her is both exhilarating and intimidating. In time, she discovers she’s not alone but striding amidst fellow pilgrims fighting internal battles as they turn to El Camino for a transformative yet unpredictable journey. 

This book is vastly entertaining and inspiring, containing humorous, heart-touching, and eye-opening experiences shared in a story/journal/memoir format.

Many moments resonate—initially questioning her choices of embarking on this challenge and the constant tug to be self-reliant and independent. When Suzanne’s purse is stolen and her ankle is twisted, your heart rate kicks. You root for her to find a way forward. And despite the unexpected setbacks, she does.

Suzanne compares this month to erasing all she’s wanted to do but has left undone. Can’t we all relate? Though you may not embark on the El Camino journey, the book offers a taste. The “Europe in her soul” is illuminated through her words. Estrellas demonstrates that no matter when, why, or how one decides to embark on an uplifting and life-changing experience, intuitively, you hear the call and, like Suzanne, should cast doubts aside and answer.

 Book and Images Courtesy of PR By the Book