Boy from the Valleys
My unexpected journey
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Narrated by:
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Luke Evans
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By:
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Luke Evans
About this listen
Brought to you by Penguin.
From his humble beginnings in a quaint Welsh mining village to the dazzling lights of Hollywood, much-loved star, Luke Evans takes us on a poignant and inspiring journey that spans from the heart of Wales to behind the scenes of the global stage.
Growing up in a small village in the Rhymney Valley, south Wales, Luke Evans’ early life was shaped by his Jehovah's Witness upbringing. While most children of his age spent their Saturday mornings watching Going Live on television, young Luke would dress in a suit and tie and join his parents to knock on doors to spread the word of his religion. From an early age, he felt different. This feeling of displacement was not limited to his faith, as he came to terms with his own sexuality, he also faced a difficult and uncertain path. In his poignant, tender and often humorous account, Luke shares his bold decision to leave home – and the religion – at seventeen to move to London where vibrant Soho scene captured his heart, invigorated his creative journey as an actor and opened a whole new world of opportunity.
In finding himself, Luke also discovered his passions of singing, acting and performing. Starring first on the West End stages in iconic productions like Miss Saigon, Avenue Q and Rent, he quickly captivated the hearts of audiences and caught the eye of Hollywood's elite, going on to secure roles in blockbuster films such as The Hobbit, Beauty and the Beast, Fast and Furious and Dracula Untold.
In this intimate memoir, Luke takes us behind the scenes of his career on the stage and screen. He writes beautifully of the relationship he now has with his family and the respect they all have for one another on their different paths. Luke's story is a powerful tale of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of finding a sense of belonging and identity, but mostly (and hopefully) a story of inspiration.
What listeners say about Boy from the Valleys
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- Chicks
- 09-12-24
From one girl living in Pontypridd to another who lives in the same neck of the woods …
Thank you xxx what a lovely lovely listen x well done Luke, super proud of you x
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- Sitting On The Net
- 29-11-24
Luke is a credit to Wales
Absolutely nothing to dislike.
A memorable, moving story of a man who oozes talent with a beautiful kind calmness.
Very unassuming but hugely talented.
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- Munchkins mummy
- 06-01-25
Loved this honest and from the heart
Loved all of it from start to finish. The story from childhood and religion to his celebrity life. What a brilliant actor and singer.
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- Mac
- 04-12-24
Honest, open and beautifully read
One of the most honest and sincere autobiographies I’ve ever read. Beautifully read by the author.
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- Dr Llinos Haf Spencer
- 07-01-25
A truthful story about a superstar from the Welsh Valleys
The story was told honestly and bravely by Luke Evans himself. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this audiobook with Luke's perfect tones and storytelling skills over the 2024 Christmas period.
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- Anonymous User
- 07-12-24
an enjoyable listen
down to earth, relatable and honest. I just binged it in just two days. well worth a listen
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- l f.
- 28-11-24
Cathartic For Me also brought up Jehovahs Witness
It’s written so true to how it is being brought up in JW family. I left under very similar conditions and It helps with some of the guilt I still carry to this day. as a 56 year old woman. Luke comes over as a genuine and lovely person. People are interested in this religion and non JW people will enjoy it too. He puts over things in a way I never could. I listened on audible his voice is a dream.
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- Amazon Customer
- 03-12-24
Exquisitely honest and humble
Luke shares his glorious story from the oppressive valley community to the rise of his career from the London stage to the silver screen. A touching and heart-felt memoir. Thank you Luke for you story and your energy in ththe world.
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- Isaac Buco
- 12-12-24
hope
I grew up in the JWs too.
amongst other traumatic things, that has shaped my life beyond reasoning. it still affects me today, having been out for over a decade.
being part of the lgbt+ community, with all the politics going on atm, leaves feeling a bit empty. a drift.
this book has come at the right time.
time to stop looking back. and enjoy every moment we have, here. now
thank you Luke
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- Kath R.
- 08-12-24
Fantastic book
Such an honest and open autobiography. Thoroughly enjoyed the book and would highly recommend this book.
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