Faith's TravelFest Reading List

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)

Biography/Memoir

Gelman, Rita Golden
Tales of a Female Nomad

I 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 Earth

Although 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.

Non Fiction

Peterson, Bryan
Understanding Exposure: How to Shoot Great Photographs with a Film or Digital Camera

This book helped me learn some of the basic photography concepts when I bought my first dslr camera in late 2008.

Africa

Kenya (16)

Biography/Memoir

Huxley, Elspeth
The Flame Trees of Thika: Memories of an African Childhood

The first book I read in preparation for my trip to Kenya, Huxley's book is her nostalgic view of her childhood in British East Africa (now Kenya) before WWI when Europeans were just starting to settle the area.

Lekuton, Joseph Lemasolai
Facing the Lion: Growing Up Maasai on the African Savanna

The 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 War

Because 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 Autobiography

Another 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 Slums

A depiction of life in Nairobi's slums in the 1970's.

Macgoye, Marjorie Oludhe
Coming to Birth

On 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 Quick

This 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 Dance

Despite 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 Wheat

Wow. 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 Between

Although 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 Cross

Another 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 Crow

An 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 Apollo

This 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 Source

Tracing 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 Land

The 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.

Non Fiction

Halperin, Helena
I Laugh So I Won't Cry: Kenya's Women Tell The Story Of Their Lives

I 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.

Madagascar (3)

Biography/Memoir

Eveleigh, Mark
Maverick in Madagascar

Murphy, Dervla
Muddling through in Madagascar

Account of the author's journey through Madagascar with her 14 year old daughter (who is way more adventurous and a seasoned traveler than most 14 year olds I've met!)

Tyson, Peter
The Eighth Continent: Life, Death and Discovery in the Lost World of Madagascar

Very interested travelogue and commentary on Madagascar, I found this the most interesting of the 3 books I found on personal experiences traveling to Madagascar.

South Africa (5)

Biography/Memoir

Mandela, Nelson
Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela

Although I grew up with a casual awareness of apartheid in South Africa, this work gave me a lot more background and context of the specifics in play. It's quite well written, and inspiring to follow Mandela's journey from a simple boy to a symbol of freedom.

Mathabane, Mark
Kaffir Boy: The True Story of a Black Youth's Coming of Age in Apartheid South Africa

True story of a young man who grew up in a ghetto outside Johannesburg; I read this during my trip to South Africa (and Madagascar)

Fiction

Brink, Andre
A Dry White Season

A captivating novel of Apartheid era South Africa, this book tells the story of a white teacher who little by little gets involved in investigating the jailing of a black janitor with whom he'd been acquainted. The main hero was almost an everyman- average and without distinction- and it was fascinating to take his journey from belief that his country's system was just to having serious doubts.

Coetzee, J.M.
Disgrace

Outstanding novel with vivid, memorable images. The story concerns a Cape Town professor who orchestrates an affair with a student and then deals with the aftermath by moving in with his daughter in the country. But there is a lot more to it than the plot- it's inspired me to read more from this author.

Mpe, Phaswane
Welcome to Our Hillbrow: A Novel of Postapartheid South Africa

Written in the 2nd person, I found this story to be an immediately gripping view into some of the issues in post Apartheid South Africa, including discrimination against Africans from other countries. The use of the 2nd person ("you") certainly helped me feel like the action was taking place around me. I found the writing in the latter part of the book, when the main character focus changes, to be uneven but overall it was well worth reading.

Antarctica

Antarctica (2)

Biography/Memoir

Lansing, Alfred
Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage

Non Fiction

Walker, Gabrielle
Antarctica: An Intimate Portrait of a Mysterious Continent

The first book I read in preparation for my trip, it was an enjoyable read which helped give me a picture of life on the frozen continent as well as its importance to science.

Asia

Cambodia (9)

Biography/Memoir

Grossman, Kari Grady
Bones That Float, A Story of Adopting Cambodia

Personal story of a US woman who adopted a Cambodian child. It was commendable that she wanted her child to have a sense of Cambodian heritage.

Him, Chanrithy
When Broken Glass Floats: Growing Up Under the Khmer Rouge

True story of a girl who survived the Khmer Rouge

Ung, Loung
First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers

This 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.

Ung, Loung
Lucky Child: A Daughter of Cambodia Reunites with the Sister She Left Behind

Sequel to "First They Killed My Father", this book describes Luong's adaption to life in the US juxtaposed with descriptions of the life of one of her sisters in post-war Cambodia.

Vitandham, Oni
On the Wings of a White Horse

First hand account of escaping the Khmer Rouge and adjusting to life in the US.

Yathay, Pin
Stay Alive, My Son

Gripping 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.

Fiction

Burgess, John
A Woman of Angkor

Completely fictionalized account of the building of Angkor Wat in the 13th century, this historical novel was a very enjoyable read with vivid characters.

Ratner, Vaddey
In the Shadow of the Banyan

Based on a true story, this lovely novel depicts life under the Khmer Rouge regime from the perspective of a young girl.

Shors, John
Temple of a Thousand Faces

Taking place in 12th century Angkor Wat, this epic novel weaves the stories of 3 groups of people from various strata of society as the Khmers try to battle back from a Cham victory on their land. The characters are quite vivid, and it's very easy to be drawn into their lives and hopes.

China (7)

Biography/Memoir

Chang, Jung
Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China

Memorable, well written story about 3 generations of women from China (the author, her mother and grandmother). This easy to read book gave me an introduction to recent Chinese history.

Mccallie Cooper, Eleanor
Grace: An American Woman in China, 1934-1974

Chronicling the life of an American woman who moved to China with her Chinese husband, this book provides a unique perspective on 20th century Chinese history.

Fiction

Jian, Ma
Beijing Coma: A Novel

I was quite interested in the premise of this book, which is about a man who ended up in a coma as a result of the Tiananmen uprising. However, I found it slightly disappointing and difficult to get through. The novel shifts from flashbacks to the main characters' thoughts from his comatose state.

Lin, Sheng-Shih
Daughter of the Bamboo Forest

This lovely little novel, which takes place in 1940's China, was quite an enjoyable read. Until it ended rather abruptly. I would have liked to have known more about the young girl who is the main character.

Min, Anchee
Empress Orchid

Interesting fictionalized account of the late 19th century Chinese empress Tzu Hsi and her life in the Forbidden City.

See, Lisa
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan: A Novel

Very enjoyable novel about 2 female friends in rural 19th century China.

Zhang Wharton, Lisa
Last Kiss in Tiananmen Square

This is a quick reading novel that gives some sense of what it was like to be part of the 1989 student movement in Tiananmen Square. Not the best work of literature, but enjoyable nonetheless.

Hong Kong (5)

Fiction

Mason, Richard
The World of Suzie Wong

Enjoyable 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 Kong

The 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 Dreams

This enjoyable novel describes the life of 2 Chinese sisters from Hong Kong during and after WWII.

Xi, Xu
The Unwalled City

A 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.

Non Fiction

Morris, Jan
Hong Kong

I 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.

Japan (56)

Biography/Memoir

Travelers' Tales Japan: True Stories

A series of essays from various sources (some of which were already familiar to me), I enjoyed reading this book in anticipation of my 2012 trip to Japan.

Benjamin, Gail
Japanese Lessons: A Year in a Japanese School Through the Eyes of An American Anthropologist and Her Children

I enjoy non-fiction by Westerners about their time in Japan. This one is a more serious attempt to say something about Japanese culture, using the author's experiences with her children as examples. The anecdotal method of writing makes this easier read than your standard academic work.

Bumiller, Elisabeth
The Secrets of Mariko: A Year in the Life of a Japanese Woman and Her Family

Presents the life of a Japanese woman as filtered through the perspective of a Western writer. Interesting to see a glimpse into Japanese life.

Davidson, Cathy N.
36 Views of Mount Fuji: On Finding Myself in Japan

The author describes her experiences while living in Japan and teaching English.

Kerr, Alex
Lost Japan

Interesting account of one man's life in Japan; Kerr had experiences and entrances into levels of society that aren't common for foreigners (such as befriending a Kabuki performer)

Muller, Karin
Japanland: A Year in Search of Wa

The 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.

Palmer, Kimberly
Not A Geisha: Being Young and Female in Japan

The experiences of a US woman who worked as a journalist in Tokyo- interesting to see Japan from her perspective.

Reid, T.R.
Confucius Lives Next Door: What Living in the East Teaches Us About Living in the West

Reid 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 Fuji

Written 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 Twinkle

Quirky 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
Silence

This 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 Samurai

Based 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 Gangsters

Completely 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 Geisha

Obviously 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
Naoko

This 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.

Ishiguro, Kazuo
An Artist of the Floating World

Katayama, Kyoichi
Socrates In Love

A 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 Sadness

This 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
Grotesque

This 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
Out

Gripping 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 World

Not as good as Kirono's other works, this crime novel does illuminate some of the pressures of Japanese teenagers.

Miyabe, Miyuki
All She Was Worth

A mystery of a missing fiancee which takes the reader through a dark world of creditors and identity theft.

Murakami, Haruki
1Q84

I had such high hopes for this book that I pre-ordered it for delivery on its release date. It didn't quite live up to my expectations, but it was still quite fascinating.

Murakami, Haruki
A Wild Sheep Chase

An 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
After Dark

I always enjoy Murakami's work, but this was not one of my favorites.

Murakami, Haruki
Dance Dance Dance

This 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 World

Another 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, Ryu
In the Miso Soup

A 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.

Murakami, Haruki
Kafka on the Shore

I'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 Wood

Yet 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 Sun

Somewhat 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 Sweetheart

Another 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 Chronicle

My 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.

Oe, Kenzaburo
The Changeling

Very interesting story of a man who becomes obsessed with audio tapes left by his brother in law who has committed suicide.

Soseki , Natsume
Kokoro

Beautiful 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
Birthday

3 short stories featuring characters from Suzuki's Ring trilogy; an interesting complement to those novels.

Suzuki, Koji
Loop (Ring Trilogy Book 3)

Once I read the first 2, I obviously had to finish the trilogy.

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.

Suzuki, Koji
Spiral (Ring Trilogy Book 2)

Things get weirder in Book 2 in the trilogy.

Tanizaki, Junichiro
Naomi

In 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
Quicksand

Another dark and interesting novel by Tanizaki.

Tanizaki, Junichiro
Some Prefer Nettles

In 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 Sisters

One 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
Asleep

3 short stories with similar themes of sleep and loss.

Yoshimoto, Banana
Kitchen

Consisting 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
Lizard

Enjoyable collection of short stories although not the author's most memorable work.

Yoshimoto, Banana
NP

Yoshimoto'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.

Yoshimoto, Banana
The Lake

Non Fiction

Allison, Anne
Permitted and Prohibited Desires: Mothers, Comics, and Censorship in Japan

Interesting read about gender and sexuality as revealed in Japanese popular culture.

Buruma, Ian
Wages of Guilt: Memories of War in Germany and Japan

It 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.

Dower, John W.
Embracing Defeat: Japan in the Wake of World War II

I'm not always into reading historical works, but this was a fascinating read about post WWII Japan during the period of US occupation.

Raz, Aviad E.
Riding the Black Ship: Japan and Tokyo Disneyland

As 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 Japan

Since 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 Edition

This 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
The Meaning of Ichiro: The New Wave from Japan and the Transformation of Our National Pastime

As a U.S. baseball fan, I have enjoyed Whiting's works about Japanese baseball. If you are a baseball fan in any way, you should read one. This book examines the fairly recent phenomenon of Japanese baseball players who have played US Major League Baseball and how the players adapted to playing in a different country.

Whiting, Robert
You Gotta Have Wa

This 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.

Laos (1)

Biography/Memoir

Fadiman, Anne
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down

Surprisingly 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 Lover

As 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 Mother

I 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)

Fiction

Farrell, J. G.
The Singapore Grip

Epic 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.

Jeyaretnam, Philip
Abraham's Promise

Loh, Vyvyane
Breaking the Tongue

Superb and memorable novel taking place during the Japanese invasion of Singapore in WWII.

Tan, Hwee Hwee
Foreign Bodies

Theroux, Paul
Saint Jack

Story 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.

Non Fiction

Yew, Lee Kuan
From Third World to First : The Singapore Story: 1965-2000

I 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.

Taiwan (8)

Fiction

Goldsmith, Syd
Jade Phoenix

Interesting 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.

Hsiao, Li-Hung
A Thousand Moons on a Thousand Rivers

Beautiful and engrossing story of a young woman growing up in 1970's rural Taiwan.

Ta-Chun, Chang
Wild Kids

This 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 Novel

A 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 You

The 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 Blossom

I 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 Asia

A 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.

Non Fiction

Manthorpe, Jonathan
Forbidden Nation: A History of Taiwan

I 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.

Thailand (4)

Fiction

Botan
Letters From Thailand

In 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 Dancer

An 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 Reigns

This 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.

Non Fiction

Warren, William
Bangkok

A 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.

Tibet (5)

Biography/Memoir

Craig, Mary
Kundun: A Biography of the Family of the Dalai Lama

Kundun 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 Tibet

This 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 Tibet

Interesting 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 Horizon

Since 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 (8)

Biography/Memoir

Elliott, Duong Van Mai
The Sacred Willow: Four Generations in the Life of a Vietnamese Family

This 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 Peace

Sequel to "When Heaven and Earth Changed Places", this book details Hayslip's life in the US and return visit to Vietnam.

Hayslip, Le Ly
When Heaven and Earth Changed Places

Story of survival of a woman who, as a child, was recruited to help the Viet Cong.

Fiction

Duong, Uyen Nicole
Daughters of the River Huong

This 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.

Gibb, Camilla
The Beauty of Humanity Movement

Beautiful story set in Hanoi about an old man who makes Pho. I finished this novel while I was traveling in Hanoi, so it was especially moving.

Greene, Graham
The Quiet American

Written 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 Blind

Banned in Vietnam, this rich novel tells the story of a girl who grows up in post war Communist Vietnam.

Phung, Vu Trong
Dumb Luck

Written 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)

Fiction

Harris, Robert
Fatherland

This thriller is based on the fascinating premise that Nazi Germany won WWII.

Von Goethe, Johann Wolfgang
The Sorrows of Young Werther

Since I was staying in a hotel named for Goethe during my 2007 trip to Berlin, I thought I should read one of his works.

Non Fiction

Shirer, William L.
The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich: A History of Nazi Germany

I 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.

Oceania

Australia (5)

Biography/Memoir

Pilkington, Doris
Rabbit-Proof Fence

True 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

Fletcher, Aaron
Outback

Enjoyable novel of 3 generations of a family in the Australian outback. It really only depicts a limited time frame from each generation before resuming the tale after a number of years.

Franklin, Miles
My Brilliant Career

Despite 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 Babylon

Thought 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.

Nunn, Judy
Beneath the Southern Cross

Very enjoyable multi-generation story that helped give me a general picture of the development of Sydney.

South America

Argentina (1)

Fiction

Sabato, Ernesto
On Heroes and Tombs

Although this novel boasts wonderful reviews online, it was a struggle for me to read. It's not an accessible or easy read, but it appears to be rewarding to most people- or maybe it's just that most reviewers are more partial to Sabato's style of writing than I was.

Chile (2)

Fiction

Allende, Isabel
Inés of My Soul

In this novel, Allende takes the reader back to the 15th century when the Spanish arrived in Chile. Apparently based on fact, it's a very interesting read focusing on Ines Suarez, a strong female who was integral to the conquering of Chile.

Allende, Isabel
The House of the Spirits

In addition to being an engrossing read, this story of 3 generations of Chilean women also gives some background on life and politics in Chile during the mid 20th century. As soon as I finished this novel, I added more Allende titles to my wish list.

USA

Florida (6)

Biography/Memoir

Frantz, Douglas
Celebration, U.S.A.: Living in Disney's Brave New Town

First hand observations by a family who were one of the first residents of Disney's planned community, Celebration.

Fiction

Elkin, Stanley
The Magic Kingdom

Truly 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.

Non Fiction

Burke, Bill
Mousejunkies!: Tips, Tales, and Tricks for a Disney World Fix: All You Need to Know for a Perfect Vacation

Despite the title claim of "All You Need to Know for a Perfect Vacation", this is not a guidebook. As such, I wouldn't recommend it for anyone new to WDW. However, for a WDW veteran like me, it was a light and very enjoyable read consisting in large part of travel anecdotes.

Fjellman, Stephen M.
Vinyl Leaves: Walt Disney World And America

Critical 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.

Koenig, David
Realityland: True-Life Adventures at Walt Disney World

Enjoyable read about some of the history and inner workings of Disney World.

Veness, Susan
The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World: Over 600 Secrets of the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom

I'm addicted to Disney travel books. This one was an enjoyable mix of some facts I already knew, along with others I didn't.