Trip Fiction: Vietnam & Thailand Pathways

If you’re anything like me, reading a book in a place you’re traveling to brings it to life in a whole new way. I made a reading list of 25 Novels Around the World to accompany my trip around the world onboard the Azamara Onward. The trip was broken up in to 10 segments. This one covered Vietnam and Thailand and Singapore. If you like this kind of thing check out the posts for the other legs.

Here’s what I actually read on this segment, including a quick impression of each book and a link to download it if you’re planning to go to these places (on a plane or in an armchair, both are great ways to travel) and want to check them out.

The World of Suzie Wong by Richard Mason This book was a great surprise for me. The main character is an artist, and the writing from that perspective is fantastic! And so are the characters. I cared so much about Suzie Wong, I found myself looking for her in the passersby while were were around the waterfront. Fabulous read that brings 1950’s Hong Kong to life in a wonderful way.

Six Years in The Hanoi Hilton by Amy Shively Hawk I listened to this on the bus to and from Hanoi. It is not a pleasure read, that’s for sure. I don’t think i’d have plowed through if I wasn’t going there. It’s tough stuff. But it’s well written,

The Beach by Alex Garland The book is a total departure from the movie. The plot is different in a lot of key spots. The film was good but the book was better. Going to Koh San Road was more interesting for having read it.

Let me know if you try any of these out, and what other location based fiction you have loved. I’m always looking for new titles.

Thanks so much for reading, and don’t forget to sign up for updates to follow along on the adventure!