Pocket Atlas Of Remote Islands: Fifty Islands I Have Not Visited And Never Will (2009) - Plot & Excerpts
This is a book about isolation. The author, originally isolated behind the iron curtain, became fascinated by isolated remote islands and now presents these, along with a story for each, singled out in charming and idiosyncratic fashion - often dealing with some isolated incident or individual. Like Calvino in 'Invisible Cities', Schalansky shows how the story transcends the specific. The difference is that her stories have their basis in fact - though part of the charm is the way in which each tale is woven into the ocean, as with the maps, giving the feel of sailor-lore to the whole. The book is an object of beauty, individual in all its aspects. Beautifully expressed, quirky information on remote islands accompanied by maps and a bit of geographic data. I have a list of friends for whom this would make an ideal gift. You know, those friends who have everything or might have read everything currently hot? Well this is the solution. This book is eclectic, informative, poetic, a little treasure. Give people the gift of a compendium of islands well presented, and you have given them a ticket to hours of absorption travelling remote seas.
What do You think about Pocket Atlas Of Remote Islands: Fifty Islands I Have Not Visited And Never Will (2009)?
what a brilliant idea. i'm putting this on my wishlist for xmas.
—spadger
Interesting, but wispy. The ultimate in bathroom reading!
—sukiwind15
Opened my eyes to further research on a favorite topic.
—Audrey
