Dear Armchair Travelers,
Are you all set for the adventure of a lifetime, to the fabled and mysterious Burma (known today as Myanmar)? American tourists start out on an art expedition that will take them to the true Shangri-La and, eventually, to the jungles of Burma. But mystery, intrigue and death cut a wide swath across the pathway of the travelers, who wish only to soak up the rich cultural heritage and perhaps make a little statement about the benefits of the American way of life. Sidetracked by a harmless but intent, recluse jungle tribe, the unknowing "guests" plunge into a survival of the fittest contest that they never bargained for. Let's just say that, in strange and unfamiliar surroundings, there's going to be culture shock. If they survive the elements, SLORC, malaria and the Nats (no, NOT gnats), will the American travelers be the wiser and stronger for it?
The images are haunting, the characters are flawed yet nevertheless sympathetic and Ms. Tan's writing style is delightfully idiosyncratic! A mythical holy man tells his followers that each day he has pledged to save a hundred lives. He elects to save fish from drowning, and as success is added to further success in his rescue operation, he buys more nets that he might save ever more. It is evil to take lives, but it is noble to save them.
Have you already read this captivating foray into the steamy jungles that hide and protect the Karen tribe? Do you believe miracles can happen in the middle of nowhere? If you haven't yet read SAVING FISH FROM DROWNING, I highly recommend that you get it, plop into your favorite armchair, and settle in for a wondrous journey that will undoubtedly enchant you.
Nowadays happy endings may seem impossible, yet....
Posts
