Prolific author Cotterell (Ancient China; The Illustrated A-Z of Classic Mythology) has lived and traveled widely in Asia. This book is part of a series that offers cultural and historical guides to the great cities of the world. These books are more than travel guides, giving readers a look at present-day identity and its links with the past. Divided into four parts: "Landscapes," "An Historical Perspective," "A Tour of the Island," and "Balinese Culture," the work also includes a much-needed glossary. "Further Reading" provides a bibliography, which is vital since other than travel guides, there's a dearth of general books about Bali. Cotterell presents detailed information and descriptions on diverse topics (e.g., in "Rites of Passage," on death: "in the Balinese cosmos the spirit has started yet another journey in the endless round of birth, death and rebirth. For the island is regarded as the entire world"). Photographs by the author's wife, Yap, and illustrations by Dunning enhance the sometimes scholarly text. An unusual illustration is of leyak, a Balinese witch. VERDICT An ideal selection for those who desire very comprehensive details about Bali.—Susan G. Baird, formerly with Oak Lawn P.L., IL
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