Don't judge the book by its cover
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This book is a proof of this old adage. The presentation of the book is very attractive: quality paper and print, nice binding. The contents of the publication are, on the other hand, very disappointing. While the author travels through a collection of widely diverse countries that have often very little in common, he offers, in a very pedestrian and tedious manner, no unifying view of this part of the world, no meaningful analysis of why these countries fall under "New Europe". Author's apparently very shallow knowledge of the realities of these countries is testified by a plethora of factual errors and misleading statements, to the point that one frequently feels an urge to throw the book in a dustbin. Certainly Palin is not Paul Theraux to write an absorbing travel book, and he is also not a Lonely Planet to provide useful and accurate information on travel. One wonders why this book was actually written. The most plausible explanation appears to be the author's jumbo ego. He apparently wanted to build a momumental testament to his massive narcissism. There are 278 photographs in the book, and the author apears on 155 of them. Palin with a blond, Palin with a brunette, Palin with aristocrats, Palin with leeches, Palin on a bike, Palin on a tractor, Palin everywhere, ad nauseam. If you feel like looking incessantly at his face and read a shallow boring description of the world he failed to understand, buy the book. I would gladly donate my copy.
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Witty, insightful - delightful
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Anyone who has heard Michael Palin's avuncular and distinctive tones (and that's probably 99% of the readership) will hear them instantly again on picking up this book. The man writes as he speaks which makes for an easy reading experience- Palin is a great communicator.
The beautiful photographs throughout the book are a wonderful enhancement to Michael's informative commentary. With close relatives in the Baltic States, I read that section carefully and found it highly accurate. This is a warm and sympathetic portrayal of our new European neighbours, which anyone who enjoyed the TV series would probably really appreciate. Michael Palin has defined himself as one of our great travel writers.
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A fantastic insight into life in the rest of Europe.
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What a fantastic book! My copy spent many weeks in the classroom (school is my postal address!), where it is attracting the attention of several of my class of 10 & 11 year olds - showing that it has an appeal to all ages. Geography and literacy covered in one fell sweep!!!
I have been totally engrossed in this series - so much so that I was thrilled to receive the DVDs for Christmas this year; however, I have to say that the book is even better! There is so much more in it - so much insight into a changing world - and the photos are amazing as he travels through the former Yugoslavia and on into much of Eastern Europe.
Although some of the places that he visits are places that I know - and some are places that family and friends have visited, the majority of the places that he visits are places that I have never been to - but this book has increased my urge to travel to the parts of Europe that were formally virtually taboo - although I know only too well that I will never be able to experience half the things that Michael Palin has been fortunate enough to experience - he has the advantage of celebrity and the power of the BBC to help him - lucky thing!
Having said that, this book is a worthwhile addition to any personal library - and a terrific addition to any coffee table.
My only sadness is that Michael Palin has been reported as saying that this might be the last of his wonderful journeys. All I can say is - for the sake of those of us who have loved your insight into the rest of the world, PLEASE keep travelling, Michael!
Enjoy!
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Brill.!
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A pleasure on TV and a delight to have a signed copy. Pleasant and informative, from the great MR.Palin. Reccomended.
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Gentle tour of Eastern Europe
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I was lucky enough to have bought this at a book signing by the ever genial Michael Palin. Have had a good look through this book and was pleased he has covered many of the places I have visited. The great thing about this book is that it is packed with fabulous photos of places making one wish to visit them asap.
Lots of explanations about the recent history of these countries and a book well worth having for reference as well as pleasure. Good value at the moment from Amazon.
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