100 Landmarks of the World: A Journey to the Most Fascinating Landmarks Around the Globe

Edited by Parragon Books
Parragon Books, $12.99, 240 pages

In every inhabited region of the globe, there are physical spaces – some designed structures, some natural geographic wonders– that are representative of the city, country or culture in which they can be found. From the totem poles of Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia, to the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia, each of these iconic landmarks draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

This book is an illustrated compilation of 100 of these emblematic locations, including the Taj Mahal, Robben Island and Uluru, to name a few. Each of the carefully selected sites, the majority of which are in Europe, is accompanied by a 2-4 page descriptive overview, some stock color photographs, and either a timeline or ‘fast fact’ file related to the attraction’s construction, discovery or development. This book is great for armchair travelers or anyone creating a bucket list or itinerary of places to see and experience.

Reviewed by Linda Frederiksen

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The Most Beautiful Villages of Provence

By Michael Jacobs, Photographs by Hugh Palmer
Thames & Hudson, $26.95, 208 pages

The small towns of France, like many throughout Western Europe, are eminently photogenic. Narrow cobblestone streets and alleys, hidden stone fountains and stairs, terracotta roofs, intimate ironwork balconies and shaded public squares, medieval cottages and chapels, Roman ruins – all add up to a visually pleasing landscape that has delighted residents and visitors alike for centuries. In this volume of the Thames & Hudson’s “most beautiful villages” series, rural communities in the Vaucluse, Bouches-du-Rhone, Var, Alpes-Maritimes and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence regions of southern France are highlighted. The book, originally published in 1994, presents about 300 small to medium-sized color photographs taken by British photographer Hugh Palmer with a brief introduction and accompanying text that provides some historical and cultural context to the illustrations. Although there is an attempt to capture the unique beauty of these Provençal locations, at the end of the day there is a sameness that marks the photographs and text – the architecture, fields and orchards of Venasque, for example, do not appear to be significantly different from those in Lurs. Unfortunately, the villages, while all lovely, are not particularly memorable.

Reviewed by Linda Frederiksen

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Devil Dolphins of Silver Lagoon and Other Stories

By Michael Bennett
CreateSpace, $15.00, 219 pages

Captain Michael Bennett has been places most of us can only imagine, and along the way, he’s had experiences both amazing and baffling. Whether it’s being hassled by surly dolphins, befriending a hermit crab on a treacherous island, spearheading the rescue of an orphaned orca, or relying on sheer luck to cross conflict-stricken Sri Lanka, Bennett has plenty of engaging tales to tell.

Devil Dolphins of Silver Lagoon and Other Stories is a collection of anecdotes and stories from his travels far and wide, and occasional awkward phrasing aside, it’s a delightful read. A laid-back, yet immensely capable, seaman with diving, navigation, and photography expertise under his belt, he’s the perfect right-hand man for any impromptu expedition. He has the indefatigable spirit of someone who has seen many incredible things, yet hasn’t lost his sense of awe and appreciation for the world’s wonders.

While I wish more of the photography he’d assisted on had been included, the photos adorning the front and back covers offer teasing glimpses of the adventures to come, which range from his time as a vagabond in Hawaii to misadventures on a poorly-organized cruise ship tour.

For my money, the highlight of the book is his trip to Isla de Cocos, an island that partly inspired Jurassic Park, as well as the location of the aforementioned hermit crab bonding experience. At turns a hilarious, unnerving, and deeply thoughtful narrative; it highlights both the highs and lows of his nomadic lifestyle beautifully.||And while the title claims he was a reluctant assistant, his boundless enthusiasm for his work and adventures is inescapable, as is his pride in the fine work he and photographer Flip Nicklin produced for National Geographic. (Although I’m sure he’d prefer not to have been bitten by rude dolphins to get those impressive photos).

Sponsored Book Review

White Planet: A Mad Dash Through Modern Global Ski Culture

by Leslie Anthony

Greystone Books, $21.95, 293 pages

Clearly Anthony has had an impressive travel list over the years, as he relays tales of skiing adventures and misadventures! Each chapter recounts a different location coupled with salivating details. Anthony narrates in detail skiing in Alaska when Alaska was the “new thing”. He also describes the mentality of the ski culture and truly nails with accuracy how skiers look, think and act. Any snow lover would be jealous instantly as he reads Anthony’s account of his wonderful locales. Anthony writes with engaging flourish. The reviewer instantly pictured herself on the same mountain; sweaty with activity and cold air nipping at her fingertips!

Seniye Groff

The Ragged Edge of the World: Encounters at the Frontier Where Modernity, Wildlands and Indigenous Peoples Meet

by Eugene Linden

Viking, $26.95, 260 pages

The book is a sophisticated and absorbing travelogue, nourished with a wealth of knowledge, empathy, and understanding about indigenous people and their once-isolated corners of the world. We can enjoy Linden’s tales and analyses, only to be swathed in guilt for wanting to follow in his footsteps and see for ourselves. Come and look….No, no don’t, you’ll wreck the place!

He writes strongly, politically. His cautionary overtones and undertones add a unique dimension. However, let me get this off my chest: the book would have recruited more Eugene Linden fans if there were maps to show where he traveled, and if the essays were dated to say when. Example: Jane Goodall isn’t 57-years-old anymore, so his interview with her, albeit enlightening, took place well over fifteen years ago, not a few seasons back. And where are these places, anyhow? Have some sloughed off colonial names? But even if we’re tempted to confirm the good or evil he found in Africa, the Pacific, the cold or the hot spots on the globe, most are too remote or too volatile for an affordable 10-day package tour.

Jane Manaster

100 Places to Go Before They Disappear

by Patrick Drew, with a contribution by Desmond Tutu, Forward by Ranjedra K. Pachauri

Abrams, $24.95, 256 pages

The majority of people are familiar with the idea of threatened species, endangered creatures dying out for a variety of reasons ranging from pollution, overhunting and loss of habitat. But what about people, cultures, even cities and countries? Did you realize that the Chicago we know and love is in danger of transforming into…El Paso? That if coral reefs continue to disintegrate, cultures such as the Moken will no longer exist? 100 Places to Go Before They Disappear gives readers a peek at the parts of our world that are in danger of changing or disappearing because of many of the same influences that endanger animals: climate changes, human encroachment, even the extinction of certain animals.

The photography of 100 Places to Go Before They Disappear is impressive. Many photographs show familiar places from new or unusual angles creating unforgettable shots. Brief explanations revealing  how interconnected facets such as humans, animals, water, and climate are create an eye-opening book. Global warming is no longer just hot weather—it has far reaching effects on every part of our life. This educational and beautiful book will capture your attention and keep you reading.

Reviewed by Jodi M. Webb

Food Lovers’ London

by Jenny Linford

Macmillan, $17.95, 330 pages

If you are passionate about good food and good eating, you live in London or visiting London, this small-format book is a must-have. Written for Londoners, this is filled with good information, attractively packaged and small enough to fit into a purse or a large pocket. First published in 1991, the information has been revised four times and is up-to-date.

The book lists five districts with shops, eateries and very good, detailed, easy-to-follow maps. In each district all shops are listed from bakeries/patisseries through wine/spirits, including cookery schools. Each listing gives address, phone number, public transportation, website and opening hours. A brief paragraph describes the place.

The next section describes ethnic markets and eateries by districts, each ethnic section with its own very useful glossary and selected cookbooks of that cuisine. The information is very detailed and nicely assembled. The book ends with mail order sources and their websites. The pages are profusely illustrated with beautiful photos. The edges of pages are color coded and tabbed to help readers orient themselves quickly. Layout and subject index are excellent but occasional ads inserted are a little disappointing. If you expect to travel to London, this book is useful additional travel item.

Reviewed by George Erdosh,

Ancient Egypt on 5 Deben a Day

by Donald P. Ryan

Thames & Hudson, $18.95, 144 pages

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to visit ancient Egypt in 1250 B.C.? You’ll feel just like a time traveler when you read Donald P. Ryan’s Ancient Egypt on 5 Deben a Day. Written like a travel guide, the book is filled with advice on everything from deciphering hieroglyphics to where to find the best souvenirs (textiles, papyrus, amulets, jewelry, and a wooden or stone pillow). A list of Gods and their powers will aid visitors in better understanding the culture. Take advantage of the most modern clothing options while you tour the marketplaces, temples, and palaces. A tunic, skirt, and sandals will keep you cool. Are you looking for a remedy for baldness? The local soonoo (Egyptian physician) will likely slather your head with fat from a lion, hippopotamus, crocodile, cat, snake, and ibex!

One of the book’s funniest sections is “Useful Phrases” where travelers will find important Egyptian vocabulary such as “My donkey is ill,” “Does this loincloth make me look fat?” and “Truthfully, mummies frighten me.” Ryan has a great sense of humor and this reflects in his travel advice. Have a wonderful armchair vacation!

Reviewed by Kathryn Franklin

KidsGo! Bali

by Mio Debnam

Haven, $10.00, 65 pages

Young travelers will finally have a voice when planning the next family vacation. Author Mio Debnam and illustrator Tania Willis give tweens their own travel guide in KidsGo! Bali. Even if there isn’t a current family trip to Bali in the works, the book is a fantastic resource that will get kids interested in travel and different cultures. This 3X8 inch paperback will literally fit in any pocket or backpack. Use the latest telephone numbers and internet addresses for further research. Area maps put main locations and landmarks in context. Kids can jot down notes and memories in the back of the book and tape in souvenirs like ticket stubs and pictures.

Parents will appreciate the historical and geographical facts cleverly disguised as trivia. Bali is one of the 17,508 islands of Indonesia and there are even several active volcanoes! Especially helpful in the guidebook is a list of helpful foreign phrases and holidays. In the “Be a Culture Vulture” section, learn about ancient temples (pura) where people have worshipped for 1,000 years. Bali is known for its traditional arts and crafts, delicious food, and intricate dances. Be prepared to join in the fun when you visit this fantastic vacation destination.

Reviewed by Kathryn Franklin

KidsGo! New York

by Mio Debnam

Haven Books, $10.00, 65 pages

When planning a trip, there is no better way to get your child involved and excited than by giving them their very own travel guide! With KidsGO! New York, children will be ready for adventure in the Big Apple. Author Mio Debnam and illustrator Tania Willis have created a series of six pocket sized travel guidebooks that speak directly to children and help them tell their parents exactly what they’d like to do and see. Don’t let family arguments or the dreaded “Are we there yet?” ruin the fun.

Each book in the series begins with the “Top Five Must-Dos” of the featured location. For fun the entire family can enjoy, check out New York’s Coney Island with its very own beach, aquarium, amusement park, baseball stadium, and circus! Other headings include “Museum Mania” – the NYC Transit Museum is set in a real subway station and visitors can board the exhibits, “Food, Glorious Food” – where to find the best mobile food trucks in the city, and “New York Know-It-All” – each year people race up the 86 floors (1,576 heart pounding steps!) of the Empire State Building. Family vacations will never be the same with KidsGO! travel guides. Where will your family go next?

Reviewed by Kathryn Franklin