Boy from the Valleys

My unexpected journey

By: Luke Evans

Narrated by: Luke Evans

Length: 9 hrs and 50 mins

Publisher's summary

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.

©2024 Luke Evans (P)2024 Penguin Audio

The reality of being a gay man and being brought up religious How it shapes and changes our lives. 10/10

I absolutely love this book. I have been so excited to hear a story so similar to mine. The difference was I was raised Christian and being closeted gay. The similarities in the story that I can relate to are uncanny. Brilliant book Luke. Thank you for sharing your deepest parts of your life with the world. Fantastic story telling, and a fantastic voice to listen to.

Absolutely lovely

I’ve been a fan of Luke’s for a few years now! First if his acting, then thanks to beauty and the beast also his music. I wasn’t so sure what to expect of his book. I had a little part of me that was afraid of reading it or listening to it. What if after all these years of being invested in being this guy’s fan I read something… I don’t know, disappointing?!? But the idea of spending 8+ hours listening to his delicious voice inspired me to get the audio book and oh I am so glad I did. Luke’s story is lovely, and inspirational! His journey is so wonderful, with all its heartaches and happiness and wins and lessons make me admire him even more! Thank for sharing your story with us, Luke!

Inspirational Read

Hearing Luke narrating his memoir was an amazing experience. Through life's ups and downs. I enjoyed his openness to share his life with us. Luke is an inspiration for all.