My Reading List
In recent years, as I have found myself pulled to travel to lesser known locations, I've developed a passion for reading as much as I can about my travel destinations- past, upcoming, and possibly future. Some of that is because it is a relatively cheap way to channel my excitement, but it's also because I find myself fascinated by what it's like to live somewhere very different from my hometown. I like to read books to understand some historical fact as well as to view places from both the authentic point of view as well as from the point of view of outsiders. (i.e. how an American author sees an Asian country) It's been hard for me to find good lists of books for some of my destinations- I've had to spend a lot of time searching through Google, Amazon listmania, etc. So I thought I'd share my travel related reading lists with others. Starred books are ones I especially enjoyed reading.
- General
- Non Region Specific Books (3)
- Non Fiction
- Biography/Memoir
 Gelman, Rita Golden Tales of a Female NomadI had this book on my shelf for well over a year before I finally decided to read it. But once I started, I couldn't put it down. Gelman gave up an unfulfilling life of luxury in order to live her dream of living amongst different peoples; in the preface she boasts of having no permanent address. The fact that she makes her living as a writer (mainly of children's books) certainly makes this lifestyle more practical for her than it would be for many people. But the point of this book is not to provide an exact recipe for others to follow- but more to give the message that women in particular should feel free to follow their own dreams, even if they go against the norms of society. - Fiction
Manicka, Rani Touching EarthAlthough the story itself is not as strong as "The Rice Mother", this book about Balinese twins who get involved in the drug scene in London was still one I enjoyed reading. Manicka has a way of drawing me in to her worlds through her writing.
- Africa
- Kenya (16)
- Non Fiction
Halperin, Helena I Laugh So I Won't Cry: Kenya's Women Tell The Story Of Their LivesI found it fascinating to learn about contemporary Kenyan society by reading the words of Kenyan women interviewed by the author. This book outlines many of the major issues facing Kenyan women- the impact of the text is due to the fact that it is full of direct quotes from Kenyan women, including a number of extended portraits of certain women. - Biography/Memoir
Lekuton, Joseph Lemasolai Facing the Lion: Growing Up Maasai on the African SavannaThe Maasai are a nomadic warrior tribe who still try to live according to traditional customs. This book is a quick and easy read (actually written for children/teens) by a man who ended up splitting his life between 2 worlds: the Maasai world of his birth and the modern US world where he was educated (college and masters degree) and where he now teaches. It would seem that the Maasai world was closest to his heart and in fact it seems that he was elected to Kenya's parliament subsequent to this book's publication. Ngugi wa Thiong'o Dreams in a Time of WarBecause I've really enjoyed and admired the 2 novels I've read (so far) by Ngugi, I was eager to read this autobiography of his childhood years. I think his novels are more well crafted, but it was definitely interesting to read his story and to get another glimpse into Kenyan life. I also picked up on some details that showed up in his novels, and better understood some of the influences on his writing. Saitoti, Tepilit Ole The Worlds of a Maasai Warrior: An AutobiographyAnother book about a man born to the Maasai tribe who grew up to be educated in Germany and the U.S. I feel that reading books written by Maasai will give me more perspective during the scheduled visit to a Maasai village on my trip to Kenya. This is a very slim book, but very interesting. Also of note- I was shocked to see mention of my college Organic Chemistry professor. It really is a small world. - Fiction
Akare, Thomas The SlumsA depiction of life in Nairobi's slums in the 1970's. Macgoye, Marjorie Oludhe Coming to BirthOn the surface, this is an engrossing story of a young Luo woman who moves to the city of Nairobi to be with her husband. What makes this book even more interesting is that it takes place in the historical context of Kenya's move to independence from the British. The growth of the main character can be seen as a metaphor for the growth of the nation. A native Brit who married a Kenyan, Macgoye has been called "the mother of Kenyan literature". Mwangi, Meja Kill Me QuickThis is the story of 2 young men from the country who went to school at a time when going to school was the exception rather than the rule for people from their village. After school, they head to Nairobi in search of jobs... but there are no jobs, and they instead turn to the streets. Their tale is both fascinating and sad. Although, as with other Mwangi works, the story is told in a rather lighthearted way- the gravity is more beneath the surface. Mwangi, Meja The Cockroach DanceDespite detailing the story of a man living in a cockroach and rat infested building in the slums of urban Nairobi in the 1970's, Mwangi shades his writing with a tinge of the bizarre so that this is not a depressing read- at least, not on the surface. Definitely worth reading to get a glimpse of a less than glamorous side of Kenyan life. Ngugi wa Thiong'o A Grain of WheatWow. This novel, set as Kenya is on the verge of celebrating its independence from Britain, explores so many interesting themes that it is impossible to describe in a quick summary. When reading the text, I felt almost as if I'd tasted a piece of cake that was unexpectedly rich and satisfying. Ngugi wa Thiong'o is one of Kenya's most noted authors and from what I can tell, his works tend to have political themes; I definitely am eager to read more from him. Ngugi wa Thiong'o The River BetweenAlthough this started out seeming like a simple tale, it evolved into a much more complex and powerful work that makes the reader think about the issues facing native Kenyans as Europeans began to take over their country. At the center of this tale is the provocative issue of female circumcision; those who have adapted the Christian faith are vehemently opposed while the traditionalists view the ceremony as an important rite of passage. Ngugi wa Thiong'o Devil on the CrossAnother amazing work by Ngugi, this book contains a brutal yet satirical criticism of the corruption of the leaders in post-colonial Kenya at the expense of the poor masses. I was also struck by the feminist message revealed in the female protagonist's journey- to an extent that I don't ordinarily expect from male writers. Ngugi wa Thiong'o Wizard of the CrowAn amazingly rich novel by my favorite Kenyan author, Wizard of the Crow is a political satire that is full of humor and imagination. Ogola, Margaret I Swear by ApolloThis sequel to "The River and the Source" tells the story of some of the next generation of characters in modern day Kenya. Ogola, Margaret The River and the SourceTracing a Kenya family through 4 generations, this book is an enjoyable read that also provides a sense of how life in Kenya has changed through the 1900's. I particularly liked how this work emphasized characters who were truly strong, admirable women in a sense that transcended a specific culture. The early parts of the book were stronger than the end; by the 4th generation, there are a lot more characters to track and there was a lot more time passing between chapters. However, I still found a lot to like throughout. Ogot, Grace The Promised LandThe beauty of this slim novel by Kenyan author Grace Ogot are the details it evokes of traditional life of the Luo tribe. Written in 1966, the novel tells the story of a young couple who move from Kenya to Taganyika (Tanzania) in search of fortune not long after WWII. A short passage that I found particularly interesting was a song sung by a harpist on the ship to Tanzania in memory of the men who died fighting the white man's war.
- Asia
- Cambodia (6)
- Biography/Memoir
Ung, Loung First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia RemembersThis is the first account I read describing the harsh realities of life in Cambodia under the Khmer Rouge. Told from the perspective of a child who eventually was able to emigrate to the US. It is fascinating for me to read such heart wrenching personal accounts of life under the Khmer Rouge; it really makes an obscure era of history (at least "obscure" in the fact that I don't think it was covered in any of my high school history classes) come alive. Yathay, Pin Stay Alive, My SonGripping account of a man escaping the Khmer Rouge and the pain he experienced in losing family members. The title refers to the dying entreat of Yathay's father. It's amazing to see the triumph of the human spirit despite all odds.
- Hong Kong (5)
- Non Fiction
Morris, Jan Hong KongI read this book on the plane to Hong Kong. Having a background in the history of Hong Kong and some of its notable corporations definitely enhanced my explorations of Hong Kong island. Definitely recommended reading for anyone traveling to Hong Kong. - Fiction
Mason, Richard The World of Suzie WongEnjoyable enough read, if a bit of a stereotypical "hooker with a heart of gold" theme. Provides some sense of life in post WWII Hong Kong. Shih, Shu-Ching City of the Queen: A Novel of Colonial Hong KongThe story of a young girl who was kidnapped from her home in China and sold into prostitution, this story spans 3 generations and is told against the story of how 1890's Hong Kong developed into the a modern city over the course of a century. I loved reading this book- my only qualm is that it's been condensed from original Chinese; I certainly would like to have had more to read, especially at places where some details seem to be skipped or glossed over. Tsukiyama, Gail Night of Many DreamsThis enjoyable novel describes the life of 2 Chinese sisters from Hong Kong during and after WWII. Xi, Xu The Unwalled CityA novel about Hong Kong on the verge of the 1997 handover to China. Gives an interesting picture of a segment of upper class Hong Kong society.
- Japan (50)
- Non Fiction
Buruma, Ian Wages of Guilt: Memories of War in Germany and JapanIt was fascinating for me to come across this work, which aims to compare how the 2 losing WWII Axis powers have come to terms with their past. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone with a strong interest in WWII era history and/or in Japanese and German society. Raz, Aviad E. Riding the Black Ship: Japan and Tokyo DisneylandAs a huge fan of Disney and of Japan, I was very excited to find a work book about Tokyo Disneyland. This is not a guidebook, but rather a scholarly look at how Japan adapted a quintessential American creation to its own culture and society. I'd imagine it would be interesting to any serious Disney fans who have visited Tokyo Disneyland. Robertson, Jennifer Takarazuka: Sexual Politics and Popular Culture in Modern JapanSince I already owned some cast recordings of musicals performed by the famous all female Takarazuka revue, I was intrigued to find this book. Takarazuka and its performers (particularly the women who play male characters) are extremely popular among Japanese females, and this book gives some history of the company along with some analysis of its social implications. I'd really only recommend reading this book to people curious about Takarazuka as it's a bit of an obscure topic in terms of general interest in Japan. Sugimoto, Yoshio An Introduction to Japanese Society, Second EditionThis book was a challenge for me to get through as it is primarily a sociology text and not light reading. However, it was interesting to read the results of the author's research on various aspects of Japanese society Whiting, Robert You Gotta Have WaThis book is about Japanese baseball- which on the surface is very similar to American baseball but which has its own cultural mores. The final chapter discusses American baseball players who have played in the Japanese leagues- including one Charlie Manuel, who would later become manager of the 2008 World Champion Philadelphia Phillies. - Biography/Memoir
Muller, Karin Japanland: A Year in Search of WaThe author lived with a host company in Japan while filming a documentary series for US TV. What I liked about this book was that it explored facets of Japan that I hadn't seen described in other works- such as the world of a sumo wrestler, to name just one. Reid, T.R. Confucius Lives Next Door: What Living in the East Teaches Us About Living in the WestReid shares his experiences and views on Japan that were formed when he was the Tokyo bureau chief for The Washington Post. Throughout, he uses Confucian to try to explain Asia's social successes. I found the personal anecdotes interesting, and it always fascinates me to read accounts of experiencing life in a culture that is very foreign to one's background. - Fiction
Backer, Sara American FujiWritten by an American who had lived and worked in Japan, this novel is about foreigners living and working in Japan. I found it to be rather average, and not as quirky as its description. Ekuni, Kaori Twinkle TwinkleQuirky story of a gay man and a neurotic depressed woman who get married because both of them have parents who are pressuring them to find a spouse. The chapters alternate in perspective of the husband and the wife. Endo, Shusaku SilenceThis novel essentially deals with the conflict between one's personal faith vs the law, as embodied by Portuguese missionaries (and their converts) in a 17th century Japan where Christianity is forbidden. Initially I wasn't sure if I'd like a book about religion, but this is a true masterpiece. Very intense, and beautiful- and it still resonates in my mind years after reading it. Endo, Shusaku The SamuraiBased on a true story, this novel details the journey of 3 Samurai and a missionary in an ill fated pursuit of trade between Japan and Nueva Espana. As with Shusaku's masterpiece, "Silence", this work explores religious themes in a way that is fascinating even to a non-religious person like myself. Genichiro, Takahashi Sayonara GangstersCompletely wild and unpredictable in both content and structure, Sayonara Gangsters deals with a bizarre world in which people do not have names and is written in a style where a chapter may consist only of a single line. I'm not entirely sure what to think about it, but damn, it's certainly interesting. Golden, Arthur Memoirs of a GeishaObviously not an "authentic" Japanese book, it was on my bookshelf so I figured I'd include it. I was really drawn into the story and I'd recommend it to anyone who somehow has not read it already. Higashino, Keigo NaokoThis book is odd, but in a good way. The main plot concerns a man whose wife and daughter are in a tragic accident; his wife died protecting the daughter who is left in a coma. When the daughter wakes up, it becomes apparent that the survivor is a combination of the daughter's body inhabited by the mother's soul. Katayama, Kyoichi Socrates In LoveA sweet little novella detailing the bittersweet love between a young man and a woman who becomes ill with leukemia. Obviously reminiscent of Erich Segal's "Love Story", the beautiful simplicity book (published in Japan in 2001) is a stark contrast to the typical modern Japanese novel. Kawabata, Yasunari Beauty and SadnessThis novel explores the consequences when a man decides to visit his former mistress, who is now an artist. It also focuses on the artist's young female protege and lover, who wants revenge for how the man had treated the mistress 20 years ago when their affair ended. Kirino, Natsuo GrotesqueThis novel dealing with the murder of 2 prostitutes who had attended to same prestigious high school is an engrossing read, though not the author's best work. Kirino, Natsuo OutGripping and memorable read that really draws you into the world of the characters- but not for the faint of heart since it concerns a murder and 4 factory working women who conspire to dispose of the body. Kirino, Natsuo Real WorldNot as good as Kirono's other works, this crime novel does illuminate some of the pressures of Japanese teenagers. Miyabe, Miyuki All She Was WorthA mystery of a missing fiancee which takes the reader through a dark world of creditors and identity theft. Murakami, Haruki A Wild Sheep ChaseAn ordinary man's life changes when he is swept into a fantastical world in search for a special sheep marked with a black star. An enjoyable and original read. Murakami, Haruki Dance Dance DanceThis sequel to "A Wild Sheep Chase" is one of my favorite Murakami works, perhaps because I once worked at a hotel and much of the story takes place at quite a unique hotel. Murakami takes us again to a bizarre world that feels real despite the fact that it is very different from the world we know. Murakami, Haruki Hardboiled Wonderland and the End of the WorldAnother unique and entertaining Murakami novel which essentially details 2 bizarre worlds. Worth reading if you are interested in a modern, off beat book that is probably like nothing else you've ever read. Murakami, Haruki Kafka on the ShoreI've loved all of Murakami's works, and this is no exception. I don't know if I always understand what the author is trying to say, but I sure enjoy going on the ride. Murakami, Haruki Norweigian WoodYet another gripping work by Murakami, this book deals with a college student in 1960's Japan who is in love with his dead friend's girlfriend. This novel doesn't have the other-worldly quality of some of Murakami's other works, but is still a great read. Murakami, Haruki South of the Border, West of the SunSomewhat more straight forward than some of Murakami's other works, this novel is about a married, middle aged man who encounters a girlfriend of his youth. Murakami, Haruki Sputnik SweetheartAnother interesting book by Murakami, this is a bit of a love story and a bit of a missing person story that takes place in Japan and Greece. As usual for Murakami, a main theme is the conflict between loneliness and wanting to connect. Murakami, Haruki The Wind-Up Bird ChronicleMy first Murakami novel will always be a sentimental favorite. This novel- mysterious, bizarre and mystical- got me hooked on reading the author's other works. Murakami, Ryu In the Miso SoupA modern thriller about a Japanese man who works guiding foreigners through the Tokyo sex industry, the main focus of this book is the main character's suspicion that his latest American client is a serial killer. A very interesting and quick read. Soseki, Natsume KokoroBeautiful and powerful exploration into the feelings of a young man and an older man he meets. This work is considered a classic in Japanese literature, and focuses more on character and thought than plot. Suzuki, Koji Birthday3 short stories featuring characters from Suzuki's Ring trilogy; an interesting complement to those novels. Suzuki, Koji Ring (Ring Trilogy Book 1)Although I have heard Suzuki refered to as "the Japanese Stephen King", I find the 2 quite different- Suzuki seems a little more sci-fi/strange than pure horror. (one of the most terrifying aspects of some of King's work is how the kernel at the root of the story is often something out of normal life that has taken an exaggerated turn) I will say that Stephen King was one of my favorite authors as a teen, and I also really enjoyed this series. Tanizaki, Junichiro NaomiIn a somewhat Pygmalian tale, a man in 1920's Japan is fascinated with Naomi, a young bar girl with a Western look. He takes her into his home in an effort to improve her status. However, unlike Eliza Doolittle, Naomi eventually reveals a darker side. Tanizaki, Junichiro QuicksandAnother dark and interesting novel by Tanizaki. Tanizaki, Junichiro Some Prefer NettlesIn a story about a couple who wants to separate, Tanizaki essentially describes a the struggle in 1920's Japan between traditional ways, represented by Bunraku (puppet theatre), and modern ways. Tanizaki, Junichiro The Makioka SistersOne of my favorite novels- I read this while traveling on my own in Japan in 2005, and I couldn't put it down. This novel tells the story of 4 sisters living in post WWII Osaka Yoshimoto, Banana Asleep3 short stories with similar themes of sleep and loss. Yoshimoto, Banana KitchenConsisting of 2 short stories, Kitchen is the best known and arguably best written works by modern Japanese author, Banana Yoshimoto. Both stories deal with the theme of loss- and there was something very gripping, quirky, and beautiful in the writing. Yoshimoto, Banana LizardEnjoyable collection of short stories although not the author's most memorable work. Yoshimoto, Banana NPYoshimoto's work is always an easy read- despite the fact that this work deals with themes such as lesbianism and incest. At the center of this novel is a seemingly cursed short story: its author committed suicide as have those who have attempted to translate it into Japanese, including a past boyfriend of the main character.
- Laos (1)
- Biography/Memoir
Fadiman, Anne The Spirit Catches You and You Fall DownSurprisingly riveting story of how cultures clash when a child from a Hmong refugee family in the US is diagnosed with epilepsy. I didn't know anything about Laos or the Hmong culture, but this book was highly rated so I thought I'd try it. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone who is interested in interactions between cultures, especially if they have any interest in medical issues.
- Malaysia (2)
- Fiction
Manicka, Rani The Japanese LoverAs usual for Manicka's novels, this work is very readable. However, it is rather ordinary- it lacks the epic feel of "The Rice Mother" or even the memorable grittiness of "Touching Earth". Manicka, Rani The Rice MotherI know a book is good when, years later, I can still remember characters and scenes vividly. I can say that about this book; I couldn't put it down when I read it. It tells the story of 3 generations before, during, and after the Japanese occupation during WWII. The early parts of this book are stronger than some of the later parts, which seemed more contrived. The stories are told from the points of view of various characters.
- Singapore (6)
- Non Fiction
Yew, Lee Kuan From Third World to First : The Singapore Story: 1965-2000I have to admit that I still haven't quite finished this book. I ended up putting it down when it started to delve more into foreign policy with various nations in the 2nd part of the book. However, I found the earlier parts on how Yew worked on transforming Singapore to a modern nation to be very interesting- especially since they were written from the perspective of the man who was the Prime Minister of Singapore during much of the period of history detailed in this book. - Fiction
Farrell, J. G. The Singapore GripEpic story of a rich expat family just before and during the early days of the Japanese invasion of Singapore during WWII. I had mixed feelings on this book- at times, I found it gripping; at other times, I found it tedious. On what I suppose is a rather trivial note, the author's over-use of the word "presently" grated on my nerves. Loh, Vyvyane Breaking the TongueSuperb and memorable novel taking place during the Japanese invasion of Singapore in WWII. Theroux, Paul Saint JackStory of an American who clings to the sleazier side of 1970's Singapore. I suppose it was interesting to get a sense of the atmosphere at the time of the novel, but overall it just wasn't my style and I struggled to finish it.
- Taiwan (8)
- Non Fiction
Manthorpe, Jonathan Forbidden Nation: A History of TaiwanI read this relatively short book in preparation for my first trip to Taiwan. I really hadn't known anything about the Taiwan, but I learned that it has a most fascinating history, particularly in its relations with China, Japan (a country that has long interested me), and also the US. It's well written enough to hold the attention of someone who can't always finish history books, so I'd definitely recommend it. - Fiction
Goldsmith, Syd Jade PhoenixInteresting read about a self made Taiwanese millionaire, an American reporter, and the Taiwanese woman they both love. This brief premise may sound cheesy, but it's really far from the typical love triangle. It's also interesting because it is set in the historical context of 1970's Taiwan. Ta-Chun, Chang Wild KidsThis book consists of 2 stories: Kid Sister and Wild Child. They both deal with growing up in 1980's Taiwan. I particularly liked the simplicity and directness of the language in these 2 enjoyable works. Wang, Wen-Hsing Family Catastrophe: A Modernist NovelA father vanishes without a trace and the story of his son's search for him is interspersed with vignettes of the family before his disappearance. This is not written as a mystery, rather as a chronicle of the breakdown of a family- which was a radical theme for a novel published in Taiwan in 1972. Wang, Zhenhe Rose, Rose, I Love YouThe premise of this book is that a Taiwanese village is preparing its best prostitutes for hosting American GI's on leave from Vietnam. The preparations grow more and more over the top, which makes for an amusing read. Wu, Eleanor B. Morris Losing Plum BlossomI picked up this book because it's hard to find fiction taking place in Taiwan and because it got great reviews on Amazon. I usually find something to like in everything I read, but I can't emphasize how much I disliked this novel. First off, the editing is so sloppy that it's mind boggling- mistakes like using the word "heather" instead of "heathen" abound. Secondly, the characters do not seem very realistic or sympathetic. Finally, I kept reading to see how it would end- but it seemed more to just stop than to provide an actual ending. Read at your own risk. Wu, Zhuoliu Orphan of AsiaA beautiful novel about a young man who is earnest in his studies, and who travels to China and Japan but who is ultimately not accepted by any of the 3 countries in which he's lived. It is said to be a metaphor for the situation of post WWII Taiwan, after it was abandoned by the Japanese.
- Thailand (4)
- Non Fiction
Warren, William BangkokA slim history of Bangkok, I read this because I wanted to learn more about Bangkok after I visited. I probably should have read more about Bangkok/Thailand before I traveled there, but nonetheless, it was very interesting for me to read. - Fiction
Botan Letters From ThailandIn depicting the story of a young Chinese man who emigrates to post WWII Bangkok to earn his fortune. Written as a series of letters from the main character to his mother in China, this book is an engaging read that really gives a sense of what it must have been like to live in the Bangkok of 1945- 1967 as well as the struggle between tradition and modernization. Leather, Stephen Private DancerAn engaging story told from the points of view of various characters, this is the story of an Australian travel writer and the Bangkok bargirl with whom he becomes obsessed. This book offers a fascinating glimpse into the dark side of 1990's Bangkok. Pramoj, Kukrit Four ReignsThis amazing work really draws you in to the life of the main character, who becomes a minor courtier, and her life through the reigns of 4 Thai Kings. It's an engrossing story, epic in scale, and highly recommended to anyone interested in reading about Thailand.
- Tibet (5)
- Biography/Memoir
Craig, Mary Kundun: A Biography of the Family of the Dalai LamaKundun is an extensive biography of the family of the Dalai Lama. There was some overlap with the Dalai Lama's own autobiography, which is indeed one of the sources. However, it goes beyond that work and really makes you feel like you know his parents, brothers and sisters. It also provides more information regarding the conflict between China and Tibet. Dalai Lama Freedom in Exile: The Autobiography of The Dalai Lama When I started reading about Tibet, the Dalai Lama was an abstract concept to me. Reading his autobiography made me understand why the 14th Dalai Lama is such a well known world figure, and yet at the same time made him seem quite human. It also made me start to understand the plight of the Tibetan people after the Chinese invasion- something that is certainly not covered in standard US high school history classes and which I hadn't seen highlighted in the US media. Harrer, Heinrich Seven Years in TibetThis novel depicts the amazing story of Harrer's escape from a British internment camp in India and his journey to Tibet. It's fascinating to read his first hand accounts of being one of very few foreigners who lived in Tibet just before the Chinese invasion- especially his encounters with a young Dalai Lama. After reading this novel, I rented the DVD of the Brad Pitt film and found it to be quite different- so I would recommend this book even to those who have seen the movie. - Fiction
Alai Red Poppies: A Novel of TibetInteresting novel that depicts life in a Tibetan chieftain family on the cusp of modernization. This novel is set in a remote region on the border with China, far from the capital of Lhasa which was the home of the Dalai Lama. Hilton, James Lost HorizonSince I am always interested in reading Utopian literature, I was eager to read this novel about 4 Europeans whose plane crash leads them to the mythical Shangri-La. I indeed found it to be quite fascinating- and my only qualm is that I wished it were longer; I thought there could be more said although I do see the elegance of its simplicity. Although it is set in Tibet, this novel does not really give one a feel for Tibetan culture or history- but it's nonetheless quite worth reading.
- Vietnam (7)
- Biography/Memoir
Elliott, Duong Van Mai The Sacred Willow: Four Generations in the Life of a Vietnamese FamilyThis is the first book I read about Vietnam, and it is a truly amazing work that led me to want to read even more about Vietnam and ultimately to travel there. This is the story of 4 generations in the author's family through through French colonization and war with the US (during which time she had family on both sides of the conflict). It's impossible not to have some familiarity with the US perception of the Vietnam war- but it's fascinating to read about another perspective. As someone who was never very interested in history classes at school, I've learned that personal accounts of events can make history come alive for me. Hayslip, Le Ly Child of War, Woman of PeaceSequel to "When Heaven and Earth Changed Places", this book details Hayslip's life in the US and return visit to Vietnam. - Fiction
Duong, Uyen Nicole Daughters of the River HuongThis epic novel depicts the lives of 4 generations that stem from a Cham girl who becomes a royal concubine in Hue. I enjoyed this novel very much, and it inspired me to want to visit Hue on my first trip to Vietnam. Greene, Graham The Quiet AmericanWritten in 1955, the main plot concerns an older British man, a young American, and a Vietnamese woman they are both involved with. In some ways, it is a metaphor for the US involvement with Vietnam. Huong, Duong Thu Paradise of the BlindBanned in Vietnam, this rich novel tells the story of a girl who grows up in post war Communist Vietnam. Phung, Vu Trong Dumb LuckWritten in the 1930's, this satiric novel was banned in Vietnam until 1986. I found it amusing, but didn't love it as much as I'd expected to based on reviews I'd read.
- Europe
- Germany (3)
- Non Fiction
Shirer, William L. The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich: A History of Nazi GermanyI have to confess that I never actually finished this book; it's not that I didn't want to, but life and moving sorta got in the way. Since I was most interested in learning how Hitler came to power and I'd obviously gotten through most of that part, I haven't been motivated enough to pick it up and resume where I left off. Written in 1959 by a man who witnessed the rise of Hitler firsthand, this book generally seems to be regarded as the definitive history of Nazi Germany. The parts I read were definitely interesting and well written. - Fiction
Harris, Robert FatherlandThis thriller is based on the fascinating premise that Nazi Germany won WWII. Von Goethe, Johann Wolfgang The Sorrows of Young WertherSince I was staying in a hotel named for Goethe during my 2007 trip to Berlin, I thought I should read one of his works.
- Oceania
- Australia (3)
- Biography/Memoir
Pilkington, Doris Rabbit-Proof FenceTrue story of 3 young half aboriginal children (one of whom was the mother of the author) who were taken from their families to be educated and who managed to escape and successfully journey 1500 miles back to their family. This slim novel also contains some background on the historical contact between settlers and aboriginals. While I enjoyed the read, I had expected that there would be more to the tale of the 3 children; it's a very short book and almost half is background. Still, it addressed important issues in a way that was easy to read. - Fiction
Franklin, Miles My Brilliant CareerDespite the fact that this book written over 100 years ago, the young protagonist Sybylla has a surprisingly modern attitude in many ways. The first person narrative is a very easy read, as one easily becomes caught up in Sybylla's feelings and passions as she tries to find her place in the world of rural Australia. I loved this book- which was written when the author was a young woman and which is apparently at least somewhat autobiographical. Malouf, David Remembering BabylonThought provoking and well written short novel about a young European male who comes to live with white settlers after having spent most of his life with aborigines.
- USA
- Florida (6)
- Non Fiction
Fjellman, Stephen M. Vinyl Leaves: Walt Disney World And AmericaCritical analysis of Disney World. Don't read this if you want a warm/fuzzy/magic Disney book. But I find it interesting as an academic work despite my unabashed love for Disney World. - Biography/Memoir
- Fiction
Elkin, Stanley The Magic KingdomTruly bizarre story of terminally ill children who are taken on a trip to Disney World. I liked the dark humor... but sometimes it just didn't work for me. Also, it bugged me that there seemed to be a few inaccuracies in the few descriptions of Disney World itself.
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