Walking in the nearly forgotten footsteps of the legendary first Knights Templar, an American and a 68-year old Frenchman embark on a mission all their own. Traveling simply and trusting in the kindness of strangers, they set off to carry a message of peace along a route historically used for war--to Jerusalem.
After the outbreak of war, everything is uncertain — except for their steadfast and perhaps life-threatening resolve.
• Named Best Travel Book, 2009, Lowell Thomas Gold Award Winner, Society of American Travel Writers
• Shortlisted for Book of the Year (adventure), ForeWord Reviews
Walking in the nearly forgotten footsteps of the legendary first Knights Templar, an American and a 68-year old Frenchman embark on a mission all their own. Traveling simply and trusting in the kindness of strangers, they set off to carry a message of peace along a route historically used for war.
Their incredible journey leads them thousands of miles across eleven countries and two continents toward Jerusalem. After the outbreak of war, everything is uncertain — except for their steadfast and perhaps life-threatening resolve.
This poignant tale is a powerful testimony to the courage of the human spirit. It also provides a signpost for those who dream of making a similar journey along this trail; one destined to become a path of peace for people of all nations, cultures and faiths.
Share the intimate highs and lows of their inspiring quest. Join them on a heartwarming, humorous and historic odyssey.
New German edition, "Auf dem Templerweg," was published November 2011, with translation by Imke Healy. E-book is available on Amazon.com.
Excerpt
The apparition stood by Samir’s bedside. In his other life, Samir, a muscular fellow in his forties with short-cropped hair, was a Druze policeman in northern Israel. Active in the international peace movement, he was also a father, husband and an otherwise sensible man not prone to hallucinations. Still, he could hardly ignore the gaunt man with flowing long hair and holes in the palms of his hands who appeared before him crying, “There is a river of blood running through Jerusalem.”
Samir tried to move, but was paralyzed. He tried to speak, but was mute.
Meanwhile, the apparition insisted the policeman draw a picture of him. He wasn’t an artist, and eventually was able to move his lips enough to mutter the excuse, “I have nothing with which to draw.” However, the visitor persevered with his demands. An hour later, when Samir was finally able to stir again, he discovered paper and drawing supplies had mysteriously appeared in his room. So he had no choice, but to follow the stranger’s instructions.
The next morning, clearly still distressed, Samir presented a striking portrait he had drawn to the priest at the rectory where he was staying during the peace conference in Norway. Then he guardedly told the Father about the strange specter who had appeared with his warning. Hearing this story, the priest became equally fearful and gave Samir a large cross to wear during his stay, as well as holy vestments.
A few years later when I met him, Samir was still shaken by the events of that day. He struggled to understand the stranger’s visit and its meaning. Were his words prophetic? Or simply a reminder of the seriousness of the task at hand?
As the world’s “Doomsday Clock” approached two minutes to midnight, the specter’s appearance and its implications could no longer be ignored.
Professional Reviews
Fascinating Testimony of Faith and Gumption
“A fascinating testimony of faith and gumption that inspired two men to take seven million steps for peace. A must read…” ~ Arun Gandhi, M.K. Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence, Univ. of Rochester, NY
A Grand and Noble Quest
“More than the mere adventure of two brave men, it is a grand and noble quest for peace, as well as a spiritual voyage that will leave readers emotionally and intellectually replenished…I immensely enjoyed reading this book. His writing combines a marvelous sense of Zen with good humor, and his personal style makes you feel as if you were there taking part in it all… Though I had the pleasure of reviewing Wilson’s two previous travel books, both fascinating, engrossing reads, I have to confess Along the Templar Trail is my favorite.” ~ Mayra Calvani, Midwest Book Review
One of the Most Remarkable Adventure Stories of Our Time
“Along the Templar Trail is a vivid and eye-opening blend of history, adventure, religion, mysticism and modern conflict… It is simply one of the most remarkable adventure stories of our time, and one that proves that with the right combination of character and determination great things can be done, and the eyes of the world can be opened.” ~ Richard Bangs, adventurer, author/host of the PBS television series Richard Bangs' Adventures With Purpose, co-founder Mountain Travel Sobek
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