Boy From the Valleys

My unexpected journey

By: Luke Evans

Narrated by: Luke Evans

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.

© Luke Evans 2024 (P) Penguin Audio 2024

Inspirational and well read.

This is a well read inspirational book which handles challenging topics delicately and honestly. I hope that there will be a sequel in due course.

Inspiring, Fun & Authentic

A inspiring, funny and incredibly moving memoir. Raw & authentic with fun and unexpected insights. Thank you Luke Evans for sharing your story and journey. Loved it!

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.

Honesty

A refreshing, honest account of self acceptance and refusal to be limited by the expectations of family or religious dogma,
A naked accountability of self reliance.

Laugh, Cry, Repeat! Listen to This Now!

Luke Evans’ Boy from the Valleys is a beautiful and wonderful emotional rollercoaster that you won't want to end. From the very beginning it felt like Luke was right there sharing his story like a friend does over a cup of coffee.

I laughed, I cried, I cringed (in the best way), and I smiled until my cheeks hurt. By the end, I was rooting so hard for that boy from the valley and I know you will be too.

This isn’t just something to listen to, it’s an experience you’ll carry with you.
Trust me, you don’t want to miss this one!