Sir Ron's tale is full of humour and an appreciation of all things French - not least the cuisine. It is packed with historical facts, philosophical musings and humorous asides. Besides being the sort of chap that you can't help but like, Sir Ron is something of an amateur ornithologist and botanist and he describes in appreciative detail the birds and beasts of the region. Though no linguist, he is taken to the hearts of those he meets, and he describes them all with insight and understanding.

I knew Ron Norman before his Knigthood days but discovered his book Odd Man Out in the French Alps on a train heading through the Apuan Alps in Tuscany. A great read from a man who thrives on challenge and enlivens every step of the way for the reader. I look forward to his walk along the backbone of Italy. David Bellamy, Itinerant Botanist.