The Longest Way Home

One Man's Quest for the Courage to Settle Down

By: Andrew McCarthy

Narrated by: Andrew McCarthy

Length: 7 hrs and 29 mins

Publisher's summary

Unable to commit to his fiancée of nearly four years - and with no clear understanding of what’s holding him back - Andrew McCarthy finds himself at a crossroads, plagued by doubts that have clung to him for a lifetime. Something in his character has kept him always at a distance, preventing him from giving himself wholeheartedly to the woman he loves and from becoming the father that he knows his children deserve. So before he loses everything he cares about, Andrew sets out to look for answers.

Hobbling up the treacherous slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro, dodging gregarious passengers aboard an Amazonian riverboat, and trudging through dense Costa Rican rain forests - Andrew takes us on exotic trips to some of the world’s most beautiful places, but his real journey is one of the spirit. On his soul-searching voyages, Andrew traces the path from his New Jersey roots, where acting saved his life - and early fame almost took it away - to his transformation into a leading travel writer. He faces the real costs of his early success and lays bare the evolving nature of his relationships with women. He explores a strained bond with his father, and how this complex dynamic shapes his own identity as a parent. Andrew charts his journey from ambivalence to confidence, from infidelity and recklessness to acceptance and a deeper understanding of the internal conflicts of his life.

A gifted writer with an unsparing eye, Andrew relishes bizarre encounters with the characters whom he encounters, allowing them to challenge him in unexpected ways. He gets into peculiar, even dangerous situations that put him to the test - with mixed results. Disarmingly likable, Andrew is open, honest, and authentic, and what emerges is an intimate memoir of self-discovery and an unforgettable love song to the woman who would be his wife.

©2012 Andrew McCarthy (P)2012 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Read way too fast…

While listening to Andrew, I felt as if he was in a hurry to get somewhere. The hurried narration made me loose focus on the story he was telling. Although I listened to the entire book, I really can’t tell you I recall anything memorable to speak of.

Wonderful Voice to listen to

What made the experience of listening to The Longest Way Home the most enjoyable?

I was first hooked with his voice...very naturally and fits author-narrator presceptive. His story of his travels and writing style was initially the reason I downloaded. I enjoy His travel column/segments in Travel Conde). Then i was intrigued by his real life dilemma with family and finding himself. I can't help but feel his passion and his vulnerability.

Interesting

Would you listen to The Longest Way Home again? Why?

Probably not, but it's interesting.

Who was your favorite character and why?

I liked his wife. She seems confident and kind.

What does Andrew McCarthy bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

HIs voice, I suppose.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

When he deal with his son.

Beautifullly written and read!

Andrew McCarthy is a brilliant travel writer! I highly recommend this audiobook (I have the book, as well)!

Interesting "behind the scenes" look

Would you listen to The Longest Way Home again? Why?

I enjoyed this book, athough it came across as a little "self absorbed" at times, which I suppose is typical for many famous people. Andrew did a very nice job in the presentation and the story itself was unique and well worth the time. If you like biographical material, then you will find this one worth a listen

A Must for Andrews Fans

I enjoyed this book, loved the narration. It is a look into the psyche of Andrew McCarthy as he goes through his life as a travel writer and a family man. I read Brat first, but in this book, he tells of adventures around the world and shares more details about his immediate family. Thank you for sharing.

🥰 loved!!

AM was very entertaining… makes me want to take a cool off the beaten path/road trip all over the world with him!!

All I thought of Andrew growing up, true!

Reading all his work! I'm floored! Again in love with Andrew Mcarthy's personality and work.

I was hoping it was going to be awesome

What did you like best about The Longest Way Home? What did you like least?

I enjoyed his journey...I just wished he was happier

Would you recommend The Longest Way Home to your friends? Why or why not?

probably not

What else would you have wanted to know about Andrew McCarthy’s life?

I guess I wanted to know more about his 'brat-pack' days.

Meh

just wasn't really a compelling story or strong message on his reluctance to have a normal relationship. Reads as someone with too much money trying to figure out how to spend their time while avoiding adult duties.