Michael Moran (1) (1947–)

A love letter to Poland. Moran first visited the country in the 90s, fell in love, and soon returned. This book is like a compendium of his travels, combined with long historical asides (sometimes you feel he leans a little too heavily on Zamoyski). The highlights are definitely the personal anecdotes, especially from when Moran worked on a project that was supposed to educate the Poles on business matters as they came out of the Communist period. Overall, one of the best books I've read about Poland, its people and its history.… (mehr)

An informative and at times entertaining read about Papua New Guinea and it's surrounding islands. The author interweaves his story of travel with the history of various explorers, missionaries, and local personages. He describes the various impacts modernization has had on the islands and discusses the effects missionaries, colonization, and the world wars have wrought. The book provides good insight to places rarely written about and the author colorfully describes various festivals, arts, and customs. I enjoyed the book although at times it slowed and a sense of sanctimony occasionally pervades the work. The book whetted my appetite to learn more about the region's history and art and an extensive bibliography is provided.… (mehr)