"Artful and intelligent . . . . Kaplan's book has made its own mark. . . I am able to feel the sense of an exotic and timeless part of the world." -- Bob Hoover, Pittsburg Post-Gazette "[Kaplan] helps the distant past resonate today. . . . [He] teaches lessons that are informative and concise." -The Washington Post Book World "A writer of extraordinary intellect and passion . . . with a wonderfully lucid way of relating history as a living thing." -San Francisco Chronicle "Erudite and intrepid. . . . [Kaplan] is a deft guide to wherever he chooses to lead you." -The New York Times
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.0 / 5.0
A good read. This book is, mostly, based on Kaplan's earliest travels through the mediterranean with additional comments and commentary from his subsequent experiences in the area. It is interesting to see how the author evolved into the type of writer he is now and how his travels inspire his interest in learning more about the history, architecture and literature connected to a given area.
Delightful Jaunt Through Antiquity This is a delightful piece of travel writing by one of the genre's masters as he wanders through some of the most history-rich real estate in the world. Covering both sides of the Mediterranean --in winter, no less -- Kaplan weaves into his narrative the historical heritage and significance of each place he visits. At each stop he shares his personal impressions, as well. One of the most endearing qualities of this book is the tribute he pays to other travel writers who covered the same ground over the... more info
Absolute Pleasure on a Lazy Sunday One of Kaplan's most recent works is an excellent read, suitable for a lazy Sunday morning when one is noshing on a bagel and daydreaming about traveling the southern 'fringe' of Europe. The prose is captivating and lyrical, particularly in Tunisia and Dalmatia. It is also a fascinating look at the development of the man as he makes his leap from 'travel writer' to 'current events' writer and journo. One point in the book stands out in my mind. This is Kaplan's encounter with a West-hating North... more info
Beautiful travel writing based on extensive historical research! As in "Balkan Ghosts," Kaplan writes with great clarity and intelligence, weaving a fine travel narrative founded on extensive historical research. He writes with a unique and creative eye, and tends to focus on important yet little-known locales. He philosophizes quite a bit, but it is an intriguing, pleasurable philosophy. The following quote from his section on Greece crystallizes for me the special appeal of this type of writing, "...travel writing, rather than a low-rent occupation for the Sunday... more info
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