What do you think?
Rate this book
Strangers on the Camino
A fascinating and entertaining account of a trek along Spain's ancient pilgrim trail - the five hundred mile long Camino de Santiago.
Replete with interesting snippets and anecdotes about the rich ethnic, cultural, military and religious history of Spain, Strangers on The Camino is no ordinary travelogue - but a very readable book that gives the reader a meticulous insight and perspective of a challenging journey by a father and son along the Camino.
Strangers on the Camino will be of interest and of use to those who are thinking of setting off on their own Camino. The detailed descriptions of The Way - and of the refugios and other accommodation which Sanjiva and his son Shivantha used - give a real sense of what it is like to make a six week journey by foot over a five hundred mile trail that traverses the mountains, mesetas and mists of Spain.
Replete with interesting snippets and anecdotes about the rich ethnic, cultural, military and religious history of Spain, Strangers on The Camino is no ordinary travelogue - but a very readable book that gives the reader a meticulous insight and perspective of a challenging journey by a father and son along the Camino.
Strangers on the Camino will be of interest and of use to those who are thinking of setting off on their own Camino. The detailed descriptions of The Way - and of the refugios and other accommodation which Sanjiva and his son Shivantha used - give a real sense of what it is like to make a six week journey by foot over a five hundred mile trail that traverses the mountains, mesetas and mists of Spain.
- GenresTravel
188 pages, Paperback
Published May 8, 2014
11 people are currently reading
404 people want to read
About the author
Sanjiva Wijesinha
5 books10 followersDr. Sanjiva Wijesinha grew up in Sri lanka, where he graduated from the Colombo University medical school and then completed a research degree at Oxford University. He trained as a surgeon and worked as a paediatric surgeon in Sri Lanka and Hong Kong before migrating to Australia and re-training as a family physician.
For the past forty years he has been writing health and travel articles – initially for newspapers in Sri Lanka and subsequently for newspapers and magazines in Australia, Britain, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka and the US.
His published books include Health for Busy People, Live Happily Ever After, Health in These Times, Stories of the Silk Roads, Not Our War, Friends, Tales From my Island and Strangers on the Camino.
He now lives in Melbourne Australia, where he practises as a family physician and is an Associate Professor at Monash University.
For the past forty years he has been writing health and travel articles – initially for newspapers in Sri Lanka and subsequently for newspapers and magazines in Australia, Britain, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka and the US.
His published books include Health for Busy People, Live Happily Ever After, Health in These Times, Stories of the Silk Roads, Not Our War, Friends, Tales From my Island and Strangers on the Camino.
He now lives in Melbourne Australia, where he practises as a family physician and is an Associate Professor at Monash University.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Read
April 11, 2015I was very lucky to be supplied a copy of this book from the author Sanjiva Wijesinha so i would like to give him a very big thankyou and i found that he was a very pleasant man to deal with. I enjoyed reading "Strangers on the Camino" and i thought that the title was very intriguing so i couldn't wait to get reading.
The story is about Sanjiva and his son's incredible journey to walk 800 kilometres along the Camino. The author has written about their journey, in such a way, that you really feel like you are apart of their trek. I think that the author has shown a very personal side to himself in regards to his son and i really respected the honesty. Here was an extremely educated and worldly man, learning how to reinforce his bond with his son.
The author is so descriptive of his surroundings and he includes a lot of details about the daily going on's and has provided a lot of information that will be of use to someone who would like to embark on a similar walk. The author has also shared photos with his readers which i think just makes you connect to the journey a little more.
It is interesting to see how this trek has really taught them some valuable life lessons which have been included in the book.
This story does more than just document a physical journey, it also documents a spiritual journey.
This book really touched me and made me be reminded of the important things in life- family
The story is about Sanjiva and his son's incredible journey to walk 800 kilometres along the Camino. The author has written about their journey, in such a way, that you really feel like you are apart of their trek. I think that the author has shown a very personal side to himself in regards to his son and i really respected the honesty. Here was an extremely educated and worldly man, learning how to reinforce his bond with his son.
The author is so descriptive of his surroundings and he includes a lot of details about the daily going on's and has provided a lot of information that will be of use to someone who would like to embark on a similar walk. The author has also shared photos with his readers which i think just makes you connect to the journey a little more.
It is interesting to see how this trek has really taught them some valuable life lessons which have been included in the book.
This story does more than just document a physical journey, it also documents a spiritual journey.
This book really touched me and made me be reminded of the important things in life- family
August 2, 2014
Strangers on the Camino: A Father, a Son – and a Holy Trail, is Sanjiva Wijesinha’s account of the journey made by him and his son along the Camino de Santiago during spring 2011.
Structured as a timeline of their journey, the book explores why he decided to walk the Camino, details his day-by-day experiences and ends with his thoughts about the journey and the lessons learned.
But this book is far from being a simple travel log.
Anyone who has walked the Camino understands that it is an experience of beautiful places and challenging physical endeavors – but at the same time a very emotional journey. Strangers on the Camino details all this beautifully, and the reader is doubly rewarded with a very sensitive and insightful window into the evolving and maturing relationship between the father and his son.
As a travel log
Those contemplating walking the Camino would do well to read this book beforehand. The author explains what he did to prepare himself for the 800 km trek – and shows that this trek is within the capability of anyone who is able to walk down the street. As he notes in the second of the Twelve Camino Lessons he lists at the end of the book: “No enterprise is too difficult to accomplish as long as you take it slowly. Take one small step after another and constantly keep your main objective in sight”.
He details useful information about places to stay (albergues) along the way, and provides historical insights into the towns and villages the Camino passes through.
As a reflection on religion
It sometimes takes an outsider to shed a fresh perspective on a well-known subject. Many accounts of the Camino have been written by devout Catholics and other Christians. What makes this book especially interesting are its observations by an outsider - someone born and bred in a Buddhist country. For me, a Catholic from birth, the images of Christ suffering and dying on the cross are part of my DNA. Yet it this non-Catholic ‘Stranger’ undertaking the Camino who raises questions that resonate with me. While describing the Processional Cross of Monjardin in the 12th century church of St Andres, Sanjiva asks “Why does Christianity depict the suffering of Christ and the saints in so many of its works of art?....What purpose do all these gruesome images of nasty things being done to good people have in emphasizing Christ’s basic message of loving your neighbour and doing good to others?”
As a reflection about fellow pilgrims
Those who have walked the Camino understand that what makes this experience so special is not the destination itself, but getting there and the people encountered along the way.
This is why the title of this book is so appropriate.
Early in their journey the two travellers accompanied by a women from Denmark, come across a very disheartened pilgrim who soon after embarking on his journey, concluded that it was not for him and was returning back to the town of St Jean-Pied-du-Port. With a bit of encouragement they convince this young man to turn around - and this chance encounter commences a friendship that continued to flourish long after their arrival in Santiago.
Sanjiva describes heartening experiences of people they meet along the way, and never loses an opportunity to remind us “… there is much more in this world that we have in common than that which divides us”. However, not all human encounters are positive. As he points out in Camino Lesson number three, “Not everyone who comes on the Camino comes here with good intentions. Remember the old saying: Trust in God – but make sure to tether your camel”.
The Father and Son
What this reader found most interesting are the father’s observations about the relationship existing between him and his son: a relationship marked with love, admiration and respect. The book is peppered with appreciative comments about Shivantha’s efforts in helping out his father (as well as other travellers along the way) – as well as many instances where Sanjiva describes the simple pleasure derived from sharing a bottle of wine and meal with his son.
Their journey together to Santiago is marked in so many positive and memorable ways. And having reached their destination, when they find themselves staring up at the imposing cathedral, the son suddenly embraces his father and tells him how much he loves him. For any parent, hearing their grown child tell them this must be the ultimate destination, the ultimate reward.
Throughout the book, Sanjiva reminds us, as he does in lesson number six, “The pleasure of walking to Santiago is as much in the journey as in the destination”.
Anyone interested in walking the Camino de Santiago should read this book. When reading I suggest you have a map of northern Spain to help follow their itinerary, accompanied by a nice bottle of Rioja wine.
Upon completing the book, you will likely be very anxious to start making your own travel arrangements to St-Jean-Pied-du-Port.
Grégoire Crevier
Chelsea QC, Canada
Structured as a timeline of their journey, the book explores why he decided to walk the Camino, details his day-by-day experiences and ends with his thoughts about the journey and the lessons learned.
But this book is far from being a simple travel log.
Anyone who has walked the Camino understands that it is an experience of beautiful places and challenging physical endeavors – but at the same time a very emotional journey. Strangers on the Camino details all this beautifully, and the reader is doubly rewarded with a very sensitive and insightful window into the evolving and maturing relationship between the father and his son.
As a travel log
Those contemplating walking the Camino would do well to read this book beforehand. The author explains what he did to prepare himself for the 800 km trek – and shows that this trek is within the capability of anyone who is able to walk down the street. As he notes in the second of the Twelve Camino Lessons he lists at the end of the book: “No enterprise is too difficult to accomplish as long as you take it slowly. Take one small step after another and constantly keep your main objective in sight”.
He details useful information about places to stay (albergues) along the way, and provides historical insights into the towns and villages the Camino passes through.
As a reflection on religion
It sometimes takes an outsider to shed a fresh perspective on a well-known subject. Many accounts of the Camino have been written by devout Catholics and other Christians. What makes this book especially interesting are its observations by an outsider - someone born and bred in a Buddhist country. For me, a Catholic from birth, the images of Christ suffering and dying on the cross are part of my DNA. Yet it this non-Catholic ‘Stranger’ undertaking the Camino who raises questions that resonate with me. While describing the Processional Cross of Monjardin in the 12th century church of St Andres, Sanjiva asks “Why does Christianity depict the suffering of Christ and the saints in so many of its works of art?....What purpose do all these gruesome images of nasty things being done to good people have in emphasizing Christ’s basic message of loving your neighbour and doing good to others?”
As a reflection about fellow pilgrims
Those who have walked the Camino understand that what makes this experience so special is not the destination itself, but getting there and the people encountered along the way.
This is why the title of this book is so appropriate.
Early in their journey the two travellers accompanied by a women from Denmark, come across a very disheartened pilgrim who soon after embarking on his journey, concluded that it was not for him and was returning back to the town of St Jean-Pied-du-Port. With a bit of encouragement they convince this young man to turn around - and this chance encounter commences a friendship that continued to flourish long after their arrival in Santiago.
Sanjiva describes heartening experiences of people they meet along the way, and never loses an opportunity to remind us “… there is much more in this world that we have in common than that which divides us”. However, not all human encounters are positive. As he points out in Camino Lesson number three, “Not everyone who comes on the Camino comes here with good intentions. Remember the old saying: Trust in God – but make sure to tether your camel”.
The Father and Son
What this reader found most interesting are the father’s observations about the relationship existing between him and his son: a relationship marked with love, admiration and respect. The book is peppered with appreciative comments about Shivantha’s efforts in helping out his father (as well as other travellers along the way) – as well as many instances where Sanjiva describes the simple pleasure derived from sharing a bottle of wine and meal with his son.
Their journey together to Santiago is marked in so many positive and memorable ways. And having reached their destination, when they find themselves staring up at the imposing cathedral, the son suddenly embraces his father and tells him how much he loves him. For any parent, hearing their grown child tell them this must be the ultimate destination, the ultimate reward.
Throughout the book, Sanjiva reminds us, as he does in lesson number six, “The pleasure of walking to Santiago is as much in the journey as in the destination”.
Anyone interested in walking the Camino de Santiago should read this book. When reading I suggest you have a map of northern Spain to help follow their itinerary, accompanied by a nice bottle of Rioja wine.
Upon completing the book, you will likely be very anxious to start making your own travel arrangements to St-Jean-Pied-du-Port.
Grégoire Crevier
Chelsea QC, Canada
May 23, 2017
Very enjoyable book. I walked part of the Camino with my own son in 2013 so understand the feelings the author talks about. Thoroughly enjoyed following his footsteps along familiar trails although his discription of the trail from Acebo to Molinaseca was a bit understated to say the least. It is not the pleasant walk he describes in a short paragraph. Some of the downhill sections here are steep and treacherous. But that aside, he has awakened a desire in me to go back again. He is a bit sceptical of the legends and of organised religion whereas I find legends something to enjoy without asking questions and unlike many I do not look upon 'organised religion' as something to be scorned. But thats the camino, different people, different beliefs and different reasons but at the end of the day, all peregrinos walking towards the same goal. I would recommend this to anyone, veteran pilgrim or someone just thinking about it
August 1, 2014
Review of Strangers on the Camino published on August 1st 2014 in Oxford Today:
Strangers on the Camino is by Sanjiva Wijesinha, a Sri Lankan, Oxonian physician based at an Australian University. He takes time, with his adult son, to walk the 800km long Catholic pilgrim trail in Northern Spain, and Strangers is the diary and account. It grew on me for its utter lack of pretension and because here is a modern physician viewing Catholicism via a residual, inherited Buddhism. By merely recounting the daily dramas and incidental details of the walking, the book acquires a moral authority without trying to, and is quietly compelling while also offering good advice for anyone contemplating the pilgrimage
http://www.oxfordtoday.ox.ac.uk/cultu...
The video of the book launch of Strangers on the Camino, held at 'Lakmahal',Colombo Sri Lanka on 8th May 2014, my be viewed here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1w7oz...
A RECENT REVIEW BY RODNEY DE SARAM FROM QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA:
“A charming account of a father from Australia and his adult son from New York meeting to undertake an 800 km pilgrimage, mostly on foot, across northern Spain. Although there were clearly some days of substantial walking for which the father was well trained and prepared, one gains the impression of a leisurely journey during which the obvious affection between father and son matures to one of brotherly love. This was in fact observed by one of the many fellow pilgrims with whom they formed easy friendships along the Camino.
Even though I purposely made a leisurely perusal of this small book, I could not put it down for long and the author best sums up my experience with ‘you cannot wait to reach the end ........... and then you are sorry that you finished it’. Thank you Sanjiva for sharing some thoroughly enjoyable hours immersed in your journey.”
A REVIEW FROM AMAZON.COM (http://www.amazon.com/Strangers-Camin... by Sam Singhe DATED 23 APRIL 2014
" A wonderful and touching tale of a man and his son, who walk an age old Spiritual Path, thousands of years old. Along the way, not only do they come closer to understanding themselves, but also each other. Strangers on the Camino is also an extremely practical book for anyone who wants to understand, prepare and walk The Camino di Santiago.
I highly recommend it."
ANOTHER REVIEW POSTED ON THE TIMELINE OF THE STRANGERS ON THE CAMINO FACEBOOK PAGE (https://www.facebook.com/strangersont...)
BY Shehan Fernando on 23 May 2014
"A 'must read' for any 'pilgrim' walking the Camino or their version of it. As always its the journey as much as, if nor more than, the destination."
Strangers on the Camino is by Sanjiva Wijesinha, a Sri Lankan, Oxonian physician based at an Australian University. He takes time, with his adult son, to walk the 800km long Catholic pilgrim trail in Northern Spain, and Strangers is the diary and account. It grew on me for its utter lack of pretension and because here is a modern physician viewing Catholicism via a residual, inherited Buddhism. By merely recounting the daily dramas and incidental details of the walking, the book acquires a moral authority without trying to, and is quietly compelling while also offering good advice for anyone contemplating the pilgrimage
http://www.oxfordtoday.ox.ac.uk/cultu...
The video of the book launch of Strangers on the Camino, held at 'Lakmahal',Colombo Sri Lanka on 8th May 2014, my be viewed here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1w7oz...
A RECENT REVIEW BY RODNEY DE SARAM FROM QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA:
“A charming account of a father from Australia and his adult son from New York meeting to undertake an 800 km pilgrimage, mostly on foot, across northern Spain. Although there were clearly some days of substantial walking for which the father was well trained and prepared, one gains the impression of a leisurely journey during which the obvious affection between father and son matures to one of brotherly love. This was in fact observed by one of the many fellow pilgrims with whom they formed easy friendships along the Camino.
Even though I purposely made a leisurely perusal of this small book, I could not put it down for long and the author best sums up my experience with ‘you cannot wait to reach the end ........... and then you are sorry that you finished it’. Thank you Sanjiva for sharing some thoroughly enjoyable hours immersed in your journey.”
A REVIEW FROM AMAZON.COM (http://www.amazon.com/Strangers-Camin... by Sam Singhe DATED 23 APRIL 2014
" A wonderful and touching tale of a man and his son, who walk an age old Spiritual Path, thousands of years old. Along the way, not only do they come closer to understanding themselves, but also each other. Strangers on the Camino is also an extremely practical book for anyone who wants to understand, prepare and walk The Camino di Santiago.
I highly recommend it."
ANOTHER REVIEW POSTED ON THE TIMELINE OF THE STRANGERS ON THE CAMINO FACEBOOK PAGE (https://www.facebook.com/strangersont...)
BY Shehan Fernando on 23 May 2014
"A 'must read' for any 'pilgrim' walking the Camino or their version of it. As always its the journey as much as, if nor more than, the destination."
April 19, 2014
'Strangers on the Camino' is no ordinary travelogue. Yes, it is a fascinating, entertaining account of a trek along the 800km Camino de Santiago Trail, starting in France and stretching across Spain to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela where the relics of the apostle Saint James are supposedly interred. And yes, the book is replete with interesting snippets and anecdotes about the rich cultural, racial, military and religious history of Spain – not forgetting the region’s natural beauty.
But 'Strangers' is much more than that. When Sanjiva Wijesinha set out to do ‘The Walk’ with his adult son Shivantha, he had reasons other than tackling the physical challenges of the Camino. He wanted to reconnect with Shivantha, having to some extent grown apart from his son – in effect becoming ‘strangers’ to each other – but only because of the geographical constraints imposed on their respective professional and student lives in recent years.
Happily, the end justified the means. While there still existed a strong bond between father and son – forged during Shivantha’s childhood in Sri Lanka – the soul-searching, often exhausting Camino experience reinforced the strength of those emotional ties. But, most satisfying of all, at the end of the gruelling trek Sanjiva heard Shivantha tell him – for the first time – that he truly loved his father.
As you trek through 'Strangers on the Camino' with Sanjiva and Shivantha, you will meet the many strangers of myriad nationalities and backgrounds they encountered and befriended along the way. You will also discover the many acts of kindness and generosity the father and son experienced; and a couple of unpleasant episodes too, proving that human nature is human nature, even in ‘saintly’ situations. Sadly, the spectre of death also cast its grim shadow across the pages of Sanjiva’s travel diary.
In a typically enjoyable narrative by this accomplished, prolific writer, Sanjiva Wijesinha has put together 12 Camino Lessons, based on his and Shivantha’s observations and experiences throughout their 51-day adventure. While the lessons are indeed thought-provoking, I found something even more profound in 'Strangers': having set out on the Camino trail unimpressed by the ‘forms’ and myths of institutionalised religions, Sanjiva Wijesinha later declares that, as his wife pointed out, ‘The Walk’ had made him a “spiritually better person”.
That is only one of many reasons why this book is well worth reading. You will not regret walking ‘The Walk’ with those 'Strangers on the Camino'.
But 'Strangers' is much more than that. When Sanjiva Wijesinha set out to do ‘The Walk’ with his adult son Shivantha, he had reasons other than tackling the physical challenges of the Camino. He wanted to reconnect with Shivantha, having to some extent grown apart from his son – in effect becoming ‘strangers’ to each other – but only because of the geographical constraints imposed on their respective professional and student lives in recent years.
Happily, the end justified the means. While there still existed a strong bond between father and son – forged during Shivantha’s childhood in Sri Lanka – the soul-searching, often exhausting Camino experience reinforced the strength of those emotional ties. But, most satisfying of all, at the end of the gruelling trek Sanjiva heard Shivantha tell him – for the first time – that he truly loved his father.
As you trek through 'Strangers on the Camino' with Sanjiva and Shivantha, you will meet the many strangers of myriad nationalities and backgrounds they encountered and befriended along the way. You will also discover the many acts of kindness and generosity the father and son experienced; and a couple of unpleasant episodes too, proving that human nature is human nature, even in ‘saintly’ situations. Sadly, the spectre of death also cast its grim shadow across the pages of Sanjiva’s travel diary.
In a typically enjoyable narrative by this accomplished, prolific writer, Sanjiva Wijesinha has put together 12 Camino Lessons, based on his and Shivantha’s observations and experiences throughout their 51-day adventure. While the lessons are indeed thought-provoking, I found something even more profound in 'Strangers': having set out on the Camino trail unimpressed by the ‘forms’ and myths of institutionalised religions, Sanjiva Wijesinha later declares that, as his wife pointed out, ‘The Walk’ had made him a “spiritually better person”.
That is only one of many reasons why this book is well worth reading. You will not regret walking ‘The Walk’ with those 'Strangers on the Camino'.
October 1, 2016
I read this book at the recommendation of my dad. For a relatively slim book (just over 150 pages), this account covers an immense variety of topics: the practicalities of undertaking a long and challenging journey, the complexities of spirituality and religion, the history of the Camino pilgrim trail and the development of the author’s own relationship with his son.
Dr Wijesinha’s writing style is clear and very readable, and at times vividly descriptive, such as his summary of the varying landscapes covered on the pilgrim trail: “from the majestic Pyrenees, the rolling vineyards of the Rioja…the almond blossoms of the Bierzo valley and the Irish mists and greyness of Galicia.” The book includes several pages of colour photographs, which paint a scenic picture of the countryside and churches of northern Spain. I also appreciated the author’s detailed account of the local food and drink he enjoyed at the various stops on the trail.
For those interested in undertaking the Camino trail themselves there are many practical tips and information on how the author prepared for his own journey and the hostels that he stayed at. However it is not intended to be a travel guidebook, it is simply an honest account of a journey through strange lands undertaken by Dr Wijesinha, his son and the many other pilgrims they encountered on the way.
The pages are filled with personal stories, reflections on humanity and “Camino Lessons” that can be applied to everyday life. Through humorous anecdotes, poignant insights and heart-warming tales about the kindness of strangers (I particularly enjoyed the story of “The Pole in the Rain”), this book conveys a sense of the camaraderie between the people who walk the Camino trail, and their very different personal reasons for doing so.
It is a fascinating and uplifting read, and one that I would recommend to prospective pilgrims and armchair travellers alike. I look forward to reading more from Dr Wijesinha.
Dr Wijesinha’s writing style is clear and very readable, and at times vividly descriptive, such as his summary of the varying landscapes covered on the pilgrim trail: “from the majestic Pyrenees, the rolling vineyards of the Rioja…the almond blossoms of the Bierzo valley and the Irish mists and greyness of Galicia.” The book includes several pages of colour photographs, which paint a scenic picture of the countryside and churches of northern Spain. I also appreciated the author’s detailed account of the local food and drink he enjoyed at the various stops on the trail.
For those interested in undertaking the Camino trail themselves there are many practical tips and information on how the author prepared for his own journey and the hostels that he stayed at. However it is not intended to be a travel guidebook, it is simply an honest account of a journey through strange lands undertaken by Dr Wijesinha, his son and the many other pilgrims they encountered on the way.
The pages are filled with personal stories, reflections on humanity and “Camino Lessons” that can be applied to everyday life. Through humorous anecdotes, poignant insights and heart-warming tales about the kindness of strangers (I particularly enjoyed the story of “The Pole in the Rain”), this book conveys a sense of the camaraderie between the people who walk the Camino trail, and their very different personal reasons for doing so.
It is a fascinating and uplifting read, and one that I would recommend to prospective pilgrims and armchair travellers alike. I look forward to reading more from Dr Wijesinha.
December 25, 2017
I received'Strangers on The Camino' through Goodreads 'Firstreads' over two years ago... so firstly I would like to apologise to the author for taking so long to read and review his book.
Sanjiva Wijesinha's account of the 800km pilgrimage with his son Shivantha to the shrine of Santiago de Compostela is incredibly moving to read.
As a reader of mostly fictitious book genres I found it refreshing to learn about 'The Camino' and watch a father and son's relationship deepen as they got closer and closer to 'The Shrine'.
Thank you for the privilege of reading this wonderful tale.
Sanjiva Wijesinha's account of the 800km pilgrimage with his son Shivantha to the shrine of Santiago de Compostela is incredibly moving to read.
As a reader of mostly fictitious book genres I found it refreshing to learn about 'The Camino' and watch a father and son's relationship deepen as they got closer and closer to 'The Shrine'.
Thank you for the privilege of reading this wonderful tale.
December 4, 2014
I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! :-) Of the many interesting books Sanjiva has written over the years, "Strangers on the Camino" is a "best". It moved me; often to tears...at other times to outbursts of appreciative laughter! I am greatly impressed by (a) the breadth of knowledge displayed in such an uncontrived style; (b) by the manner in which Sanjiva has presented his readers a 'treatise' which is at once a "guidebook"; an "all you ever wanted to know about the Camino"; a "lexicon" (WOW!!); a study of human interaction and relationships; a catalogue of places of interest along with just the right amount of detail concerning each place...complete with insightful observations about the personalities encountered on the journey. The narrative had me in its grip - in the nicest way. I shared the walk with Sanjiva and Shivantha; their 'highs' and 'highers'! I was taken, willingly and eagerly, to Churches and Castle and Albergues and riversides; up slow and laboured paths to summits and along those leisurely descents with grand views spread out before amazed gazes. What a privilege!! - to scale the Pyrenees and Cantabrian ranges with these gentlemen and others! I tasted their Pilgrim menu and drank deep of their glass. And I paused in reverence as they quietened when on "Holy ground". It is all so beautiful. I am so glad I bought this book. It lay unopened for many months. Like The Camino herself...once the journey began, there was no turning back. Thank you Sir. Shivantha, it has been a pleasure and privilege to make your acquaintance. The Good Lord bless and keep you. With great respect, David Sansoni
June 4, 2014
Pilgrims have walked the Camino de Santiago for centuries. This account by a busy Melbourne physician Sanjiva Wijesinha of his decision to take time off to follow the ancient trail sacred to Catholics across northern Spain with his adult son, taps into many deep-rooted compulsions as to why people of different faiths and backgrounds (he is a non-Catholic and Sri Lankan by birth) embark on this arduous yet uplifting journey.
Eminently readable, told in Wijesinha’s frank and engaging style, this can be enjoyed as a travelogue, but it is a book that goes beyond the descriptions of places and sights along the 800 km route. At its heart is the emotional journey of self-discovery that father and son make – and the Camino ‘lessons’ that they come upon.
A word of caution; readers may be prompted to embark on a Camino journey of their own after sharing Wijesinha’s experiences
Eminently readable, told in Wijesinha’s frank and engaging style, this can be enjoyed as a travelogue, but it is a book that goes beyond the descriptions of places and sights along the 800 km route. At its heart is the emotional journey of self-discovery that father and son make – and the Camino ‘lessons’ that they come upon.
A word of caution; readers may be prompted to embark on a Camino journey of their own after sharing Wijesinha’s experiences
June 23, 2014
A charming account of a father from Australia and his adult son from New York meeting to undertake an 800 km pilgrimage, mostly on foot, across northern Spain. Although there were clearly some days of substantial walking for which the father was well trained and prepared, one gains the impression of a leisurely journey during which the obvious affection between father and son matures to one of brotherly love. This was in fact observed by one of the many fellow pilgrims with whom they formed easy friendships along the Camino.
Even though I purposely made a leisurely perusal of this small book, I could not put it down for long and the author best sums up my experience with ‘You cannot wait to reach the end ........... and then you are sorry that you finished it’.
Thank you Sanjiva for sharing some thoroughly enjoyable hours immersed in your journey.”
Even though I purposely made a leisurely perusal of this small book, I could not put it down for long and the author best sums up my experience with ‘You cannot wait to reach the end ........... and then you are sorry that you finished it’.
Thank you Sanjiva for sharing some thoroughly enjoyable hours immersed in your journey.”
June 1, 2014
This is a very readable book, which I will gladly recommend to anybody who is planning to make their own pilgrimage along the Camino of St. James.
Dr Wijesinha provides a comprehensive account of the journey that he and his son made, the planning behind it and the sights they encountered along their walk; he also provides a very interesting account of the history of this ancient Way and the myths and stories around it.
Add to this the story of the relationship of father and son as they got to know each other better while they journeyed together for six weeks and the twelve 'Camino Lessons' they learned along the Way, and you have a fabulous book that can be appreciated at many levels.
It well deserves the five star rating I have given it.
Dr Wijesinha provides a comprehensive account of the journey that he and his son made, the planning behind it and the sights they encountered along their walk; he also provides a very interesting account of the history of this ancient Way and the myths and stories around it.
Add to this the story of the relationship of father and son as they got to know each other better while they journeyed together for six weeks and the twelve 'Camino Lessons' they learned along the Way, and you have a fabulous book that can be appreciated at many levels.
It well deserves the five star rating I have given it.
August 1, 2015
I spotted this book at the airport bookshop in Sri Lanka and what caught my attention was the cover picture with one brown angel among three white angels. I am glad I bought it - it kept me absorbed on my flight from Colombo to Turkey!!!
The writer tells us the story of his journey walking on the Camino of Saint James in a very readable style. He also tells us about the history of this famous trail of pilgrimage as well as his personal philosophy and the lessons he learned along the way.
In between the story of the journey and the story of the Camino. he tells us about the fortunate experience of gettng to know his son as they walked 800 kilometres together over a period of six weeks.
I have rated it with five stars. A great read.
The writer tells us the story of his journey walking on the Camino of Saint James in a very readable style. He also tells us about the history of this famous trail of pilgrimage as well as his personal philosophy and the lessons he learned along the way.
In between the story of the journey and the story of the Camino. he tells us about the fortunate experience of gettng to know his son as they walked 800 kilometres together over a period of six weeks.
I have rated it with five stars. A great read.
April 27, 2015
This is a well researched account of The Way of Saint James or the Camino de Santiago. The writer who is a sixty two year old doctor walked the whole way with his thirty year old son which is not a mean feat. He describes their journey as a day by day account but he also reflects along the Way about their journey and their relationship. He takes time to describe the history of Spain and he muses about religion and philosophy.
His Twelve Camino Lessons at the end of the book, a distillation of what he and his son learned along their travels, are very significant.
His Twelve Camino Lessons at the end of the book, a distillation of what he and his son learned along their travels, are very significant.
June 3, 2014
Sanjiva Wijesinha, a writer of repute with a flair for outdoor life and hiking has given a meticulous insight to any prospective Stranger on the Camino.
This book depicts a relationship between Father and Son worthy of emulation.
An inspirational book on challenge and understanding”.
This book depicts a relationship between Father and Son worthy of emulation.
An inspirational book on challenge and understanding”.
June 24, 2014
A delightful and insightful read – highly recommended
This short book by Sri Lankan expat and ex-soldier, now a medical doctor in Australia, tells the story of walking the Camino de Santiago with his adult son, Shivantha, surely two of the few Sri Lankans to have ever walked the Camino. His Lessons Learned resonate with me, as I learned many of the same lessons on the same cross-Spain walk.
This short book by Sri Lankan expat and ex-soldier, now a medical doctor in Australia, tells the story of walking the Camino de Santiago with his adult son, Shivantha, surely two of the few Sri Lankans to have ever walked the Camino. His Lessons Learned resonate with me, as I learned many of the same lessons on the same cross-Spain walk.
July 30, 2014
This is a lovely book that not only describes the author's journey along the pilgrim trail called the Camino of santiago, but also explores the loving relationship between the father and the son as they make the journey together.
I recommend this book very highly to all parents of adult children.
I recommend this book very highly to all parents of adult children.
July 23, 2017
Touching. Having walk almost two weeks I find so much true in this gentle narrative
December 22, 2023
A Sri Lankan doctor from Australia, accompanied by his thirty year old son, find themselves bound together and committed to a spiritual journey on the Camino de Santiago in Spain.
The author’s introspection, his appreciation and understanding of world religions, flashbacks to his youth, his father and the great love for his own son shine through in this heartwarming travel adventure. As father and son make their way across Spain we are also treated to the musings and reflections of Dr. Sanjiva Wijesinha who, at times, views his surroundings clinically through the aperture of a physician’s lens.
"Strangers on the Camino: A Father, a Son and a Holy Trail" should be required reading for pilgrims and armchair pilgrims traveling along “The Way”, especially those who are contemplating a spiritual trip with family members…a trend which is becoming more and more popular. Passionate Camino travelers would do well to add Dr. Wijesinha’s special book to their Camino reading list. It will not disappoint!
The author’s introspection, his appreciation and understanding of world religions, flashbacks to his youth, his father and the great love for his own son shine through in this heartwarming travel adventure. As father and son make their way across Spain we are also treated to the musings and reflections of Dr. Sanjiva Wijesinha who, at times, views his surroundings clinically through the aperture of a physician’s lens.
"Strangers on the Camino: A Father, a Son and a Holy Trail" should be required reading for pilgrims and armchair pilgrims traveling along “The Way”, especially those who are contemplating a spiritual trip with family members…a trend which is becoming more and more popular. Passionate Camino travelers would do well to add Dr. Wijesinha’s special book to their Camino reading list. It will not disappoint!
December 7, 2019
Lots of 5 star reviews but for me this was an average retelling of his Camino walk. Typical of these kinds of books it mentioned the albergues, food, and a few fellow walkers he met along the way. Sorry, but I was turned off by his occasional dismissal of some Christian based stories as nothing more than made-up stories. Then would mention his deep respect for all religions. Glad it was free in the lending library.
December 12, 2020
Thank you Sanjiva, this was a very interesting and captivating book - Brilliant!
June 7, 2014
Dr. Sanjiva Wijesinha is a Sri Lanken physician who is currently practicing in Australia. He took 6 weeks off of his practice and University position to take a sabbatical as a pilgrim walking the Camino de Santiago with his son. The book is part journal, part travel guide and part philosophical musing. Sanjiva was in his early 60’s and his son was 30 when they walked their spiritual path as Father/Son and ultimately best friends. It is fun to hear the Camino described from the mindset of a physician. For instance, he worries about experiencing angina if he were to push himself too hard in cold weather conditions; he frequently comments about the impact of walking on cholesterol and blood glucose levels. His intelligence is not just relegated to the physical exigencies of the Camino, but even more importantly, to the rich linguistic, cultural, and religious history of the regions he traversed on the path to Santiago. Having completed the pilgrimage just one year after his, I have to say I was not aware of half the information he explained about people and places that constitute the Camino’s rich history. Not only that, he seemed so much more relaxed during his walk, taking time to visit out of the way places that were equally compelling. At times he rode a taxi or a train and this likely gave him the energy to take these detours, but I have a feeling that his curiosity would have spurred him to take these detours regardless.
My only criticism of the book has to do with his jaundiced eye toward institutionalized faith. I understand how easy it is to see the avarice or the hypocrisy behind some church practices and a handful of corrupt individuals, but it may have come at the cost of missing the broader picture. The best example I can offer is his description of how Catholics depict torture and pain. While it is true that the crucifix cannot be divorced from the impact of Jesus (i.e., sacrificing his life for our sins) there are many images of Jesus as Healer, as Provider, and many images of Saints performing selfless acts of love in Catholic churches. His views of the church and it’s use of St James as a means to achieve an end may have merit but, for me, it detracted from the deeply spiritual experiences I heard him describe throughout his quest for greater meaning. Maybe it stood out because it was repeated at the very end of the book. For me, it detracted from his main lessons, which were sprinkled throughout and had little to do with the hypocrisies of history.
Despite my one criticism, it is clear that this author was successful at accomplishing what he set out to achieve: to document a deeply meaningful journey that transformed his life and his understanding of his relationships, specifically with his son. I couldn’t help but smile when I read his reaction to the Cruz de Ferro because I had the identical reaction when I first laid eyes on it.
Dr. Wijesinha’s description of the Camino makes me want to go back and see all the things I missed or failed to understand about the history of this ancient path. If you plan to walk the Camino, this book is a great way to prepare for the things you’ll see and help you look for the things you might otherwise miss.
My only criticism of the book has to do with his jaundiced eye toward institutionalized faith. I understand how easy it is to see the avarice or the hypocrisy behind some church practices and a handful of corrupt individuals, but it may have come at the cost of missing the broader picture. The best example I can offer is his description of how Catholics depict torture and pain. While it is true that the crucifix cannot be divorced from the impact of Jesus (i.e., sacrificing his life for our sins) there are many images of Jesus as Healer, as Provider, and many images of Saints performing selfless acts of love in Catholic churches. His views of the church and it’s use of St James as a means to achieve an end may have merit but, for me, it detracted from the deeply spiritual experiences I heard him describe throughout his quest for greater meaning. Maybe it stood out because it was repeated at the very end of the book. For me, it detracted from his main lessons, which were sprinkled throughout and had little to do with the hypocrisies of history.
Despite my one criticism, it is clear that this author was successful at accomplishing what he set out to achieve: to document a deeply meaningful journey that transformed his life and his understanding of his relationships, specifically with his son. I couldn’t help but smile when I read his reaction to the Cruz de Ferro because I had the identical reaction when I first laid eyes on it.
Dr. Wijesinha’s description of the Camino makes me want to go back and see all the things I missed or failed to understand about the history of this ancient path. If you plan to walk the Camino, this book is a great way to prepare for the things you’ll see and help you look for the things you might otherwise miss.
January 16, 2016
I picked up this Camino book after staying away from Camino books for awhile after walking Camino from Leon to Santiago spring 2015. I was hoping to be inspired to walk it again. I found the book to be just another adventure book without any spiritual base. It talks of the friendships, food, and of course the many bottles of wine consumed while on the Camino. I would have given it at least a 4 star rating except the author in many ways has the opinion that spiritual things such as the Eucharistic Miracle at O Cebreiro are nothing but stories fabricated by the Church to dupe the ignorant Catholics. The church does not approve Eucharistic miracles without intense investigation. The O Cebreiro miracle is approved by the church. The Camino is still a pilgrimage for some of us. The Catholic church continues to support and encourage people of all faiths to make this pilgrimage. The people who do make the walk should at least has some respect for the stories and traditions that are part of this pilgrimage and the Catholic faith.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews