When he was a troubled teenager, unsure of what to do with his life, Simon Reeve visited the job centre. He received advice there which he has held onto throughout his life: to take things a step at a time.

Now known as an outstanding television documentary maker, this is the story of Simon's life from troublemaker to investigative reporter.

This is a warm, honest and inspiring account of an extraordinary life. It highlights how a few wrong decisions can have damaging and catastrophic consequences, but also how a simple conversation at the right time can turn a life around.

I confess that I haven't watched any of Simon Reeve's tv documentaries nor read any of his other books, but I will be seeking them out after reading this account of his life so far.

Despite having no qualifications and fighting depression, as a young man Simon Reeve went for a long walk in Scotland and, by putting one foot ahead of the other, gained the confidence to put his life back on track. He returned to London and took a job dealing with the post at the offices of the 'Sunday Times'. Through making himself available and willing, he ended up a member of the team of investigative journalists!

The details of some of his assignments are astonishing. His revelations about the issues that he has covered are enlightening. There's humour too, but some of the details about his illnesses and the sanitary and dining conditions he has survived mean that I admire what he has achieved, but am not sure I'm envious. A great read.