Book Review- MY GREAT RIDE: A Memoir


When I joined the my local Rotary Club (of Bangkok South), I had the pleasure of having Philip Bachtold, a fellow Rotarian and Past President, introducing and interviewing me in one of our lunch fellowship. When I saw that he was selling his memoir (with proceeds going to charity), I was excited to pick it up. I’ve never read a memoir of someone I know to this extent and it is courageous of him to put out show the details and vulnerability of his life in writing for all to read.

The book is Philip’s life story from his childhood in Switzerland to his adventure in Japan, settlement in Thailand, starting his business and family life. It is written as a historical fact for his grandchildren to understand the details and makeups of him so it contains some of the details may not interest us as a casual reader but. It also serves relatively well as a traveling guide in many countries (USA, Japan, Thailand to name a few) as Philip describes in great details the many adventures he went on! The book has a lot of interesting insights that makes me think:

  1. One needs to explore the world to learn about the possibilities
  2. Cultivate relationships in our lives. They bring joy and companionship that sustain what makes life meaningful
  3. Be deliberate with relationship with your partner. The ups and downs of life will happen but some relationships are worth investing in
  4. Be adaptable. Things change all the time. Be ready for opportunities
  5. Be creative when facing crisis or problems. Don’t need to stick to old solutions. Seeing Philip

If I write a memoir, what would I focus on? I’ve never encountered someone who wrote a memoir before so this inspires me to think through about what narrative I want my life to be and how I would tell my story.

Thank you Philip for sharing your story with us!