In the epilogue to Bear Grylls' autobiography, 'Mud, Sweat and Tears' he writes:
"I wanted to show my roots: the early bigger missions that shaped me, and the even earlier, smaller moments that steered me."
Entertainingly the book does just that, and like every minute of his adventure shows (estimated reach 1.2 billion viewers) which make for addictive viewing, every page of his book makes for compelling reading.
Very early on 'Mud, Sweat and Tears' shatters any notion we have of him possessing special god given qualities. What we find instead are very human vulnerabilities and insecurities have driven the former UK special forces member to accomplish his extreme goals.
Along with his death defying escapades the first few chapters are filled with anecdotes about his adventurous, can-do, colourful and quirky family and ancestors who shaped his DNA. And in later chapters we meet his select friends, teachers, colleagues and bullies that tested and fine tuned this DNA.
If you didn't already know about Grylls' privileged background he touches upon it in the least boastful and most humblest way possible. And it is this background you learn helped foster Bear's independent thinking and drives him to show his worth and gratitude to the world.
In our view it's a bloody good read not just for die-hard fans but for people looking for a kick up the bum. Page after page is laden with inspirational quotes that Grylls' great-great-great grandfather, Samuel Smiles the author of "the original 'motivational' book" entitled 'Self-Help' would be proud of.
Get a copy of it here.
