Critical Praise & Recognition

What critics, authors and readers are saying about Trials & Tea Ceremonies

A hilarious and heartfelt journey for anyone who has ever wondered, “Is this it?” Here is the praise gathering around the memoir of the year Basho and Cesca quit their jobs, packed two rucksacks, and set off across twelve countries.

Kirkus Reviews · Get It   ·   Reedsy Discovery · 4 stars   ·   LoveReading · Indie Books We Love   ·   Readers · 4.6★ on Amazon

“A very likable couple as guides… Cesca’s black-and-white photographs are clear and evocative.”

Kirkus Reviews  ·  Our Verdict: Get It
Read the full Kirkus review →
The Reviews

“Loved it! A reflective travel memoir that looks beyond destinations… The book is very readable and left me with a renewed sense of curiosity and wanderlust.”

Rachel SharpReedsy Discovery · rated 4 / 5 stars

“An engaging and compelling travelogue with a vital and strong emphasis on connection and experience over ticking off the bucket list… Overflowing with the author’s curious spirit.”

LoveReadingFeatured as an “Indie Books We Love”

“This book reminded me why we travel: not for the postcard moments, but for the mishaps, characters, and revelations along the way.”

Alastair HumphreysEnglish adventurer, author & motivational speaker

“A richly written, unexpectedly profound journey. The book highlights how travel can add richly to the meaning of one’s life.”

Mike RichardsBestselling author of The Travelling Ape

“For a hearty dose of mind, body, spirit, travel, and Zen in remarkable places — take yourself somewhere magical, wherever you are.”

Goran PowellBestselling author of Waking Dragons

“A story of perseverance, agility, the happy, the sad, and the tests of faith and belief.”

Akenga EvansonOnlineBookClub.org · rated 5 / 5 stars
4.6★
Average from readers on Amazon

“A funny, soul-searching adventure that made me laugh, think, and (almost) book a one-way ticket.”

Emily Gains · Goodreads reviewer (5★)
Trials & Tea Ceremonies cover
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Trials & Tea Ceremonies

The full story is out now in paperback and on Kindle. Buy from Amazon, or order from any bookshop.

A debut travel memoir by Basho, with photography by Cesca · Outside Context Publishing