"Matthew Stout has crafted a charming, accessible, often hilarious and deeply personal account of his travels through Ireland that is at once a personal memoir, a travel book and an ode to this island. Remote from Adventure is something of an ironic title as it becomes clear that Stout finds all the adventure he needs in Ireland’s history, landscapes and people. This is a beautiful travel memoir that will be treasured by anyone who has ever visited Ireland and it is quite possible that this book will remind those of us who live here just how fortunate we are." Eoin Colfer, Bestselling author
"Well written, warm and gentle, but also perceptive – this is a fascinating piece of social history, a first-hand travel-by-bicycle memoir". Rachel Pierce, author and editor