Laurence Mackinreviews The Elephanta Suiteby Paul Theroux and Lonely Planet's Hong Kong Macau City Guide
The Elephanta SuitePaul Theroux Penguin, £8.99
There is plenty of focus on Paul Theroux at the moment, thanks to the publication of his new book, Ghost Train to the Eastern Star, so Penguin has reissued a paperback of his earlier Elephanta Suite. This is an elegant triptych of novellas with the merest of crossovers that lift the veil on Indian society. It takes in the luxury lodges, spiritual ashrams and industrial politics that make up much of the tapestry of modern India, and paints a portrait of a country and society that is intricate, bewildering, ancient and evolving. This is a powerful piece of writing, and Theroux could well infuriate India-worshippers with his reeking, bustling prose and largely unflattering portrait of life in this Asian continent within a continent. But it is an aggressive, succinct work that challenges the reader and leaves lingering, exotic images in the mind.
Hong Kong Macau City GuideLonely Planet, £13.99
If Theroux's book puts you off India, and you want something Asian but a bit more cosmopolitan, Hong Kong should be near the top of your list. This vibrant, colourful guide to the city and Macao is an appetising introduction. These guides have a sharp magazine feel, reinforced by snippets from locals, which makes for plenty of tips on how to get the best from the city (such as don't get your hair cut on a Wednesday - it's race day at the horse track, and the barber will be more intent on the form than your head). There are reams of restaurant listings and, vitally for a city not known for its affordability, a decent selection of fun and friendly places to stay that won't break the bank.