This is an authoritative analysis of one of the most turbulent periods in U.S.-Korean relations and an enlightening memoir by one of America's top career ambassadors and China experts. After a somewhat slow introduction (probably necessary for readers short on historical knowledge), the book marches along smartly in an exciting first-person narrative filled with dramatic events, struggles of will, and diplomatic efforts to save a flawed American policy, to foster democracy abroad, and to save the life of a foreign statesman. Should be read by all interested in the art of diplomacy, the Korean transition to democracy, or the practice and limits of U.S. influence.

I really don't enjoy reading guidebooks where the author simply lists places to stay, restaurants with locations, and sights to see without any hint of the quality of the place. How does one choose? I have been to Asia many times, but this will be my first trip to Laos and Cambodia. I realize this book is outdated, given its copyright, but plan to use it anyway (with notes from others to supplement). The cities, hotels, and restaurants will probably still be there, certainly with prices higher than those quoted in the book. However, I have had this experience from the most well-known of travel books with quite recent copyrights, so won't be surprised when this happens (I almost ran out of money once in Sri Lanka when prices were triple what I had read they would be). Examples of the personal note from Mr. Rutledge's book: "Without a doubt this is my favorite city in Laos.", "The choice of accomodations in Luang Prabang is quite clear.", "My favorite Vientiane resaurant. . .is Le Parasol Blac. . .", ". . . do not leave without at least one meal in the restaurant." I'll write a follow-up review in September, 2000 after I return!

i have had the honor of not only reading msg. pucketts book but i have also had the opportunity to meet him and discuss the book at length. the book is truly something all inspiring to read and it gives someone the chance to see how the enlisted men who were in the middle of the battle lived and also suffered, not only in vietnam but back at home. it is literature like this that makes me proud to be an american and to know such great soldiers and men such as msg. david puckett. i would highly recommend this not only to those who enjoy military literature but to those who wish to try and understand what the heroes went through.

A must for the traveler in Thailand. Complete maps of major cities with gyms, hotels, bars, baths.Also notes on religion, foods, Thailand travel, local phones, money, health and hygeine,and politeness in the wonderful "Land of Smiles"

When in Sumatra - Indonesia I read this book, which convinced me to go to Pulau Siberut to see and experience the Mentawai.

Before leaving I was sceptical how much the book really reflected the way that the Mentawai actually live but when I got to Siberut, and experienced these people for myself I realised how true to life the book really is. It doesn't have anything in it that is not accurate, perhaps slightly glossier than reality at times, but not inaccurate.

I took the opportunity to stay with Aman Lao Lao, the Shaman featured in the book who - like all the Mentawai - is a warm, hospitable and often funny guy. They don't wear their dress for show or for photos, but genuinely do dress in the manner shown in the book, although they might have more modern clothes if they need to visit the port or come into contact with officialdom. The Mentawai people are extremely interesting and good natured and I would urge anyone who has any interest in tribal cultures to look at this book as there are very few places where one can see such an unspoiled civilisation, and this book shows with stunning photography how these wonderful people continue to live

We have just about every Thailand guidebook here at our school. When we set off on our last photo trip we took with us only three guides. The book that turned out to be the most useful was the Michelin Green Guide for Thailand. The two large maps at the front were very useful in planning the trip. One map highlighted the best places to visit in Thailand (using a 3 star system). The other map gave suggested round trip tours in different areas of Thailand. Another useful feature of the book is that places are sorted alphabetically rather than by region. This meant fast and easy access to places we wanted to visit. As well as details about what to see in each location (again with a 3 star system helping you pick out the highlights) there is also an excursion list for other places to see in the area. Many of these extras aren't listed in your regular guide. As we were driving, we found it invaluable that they always clearly showed us how to get to each location and they never once got us lost. Some people might not like the absence of a hotel listing, but we found this no problem in Thailand. Hotels and guesthouses are always easy to find.

In A Moment Of Anguish: Singapore In Malaysia And The Politics Of Disagreement, Albert Lau captures the dramatic events of 1963 to 1965 which lead to the historic separation of Singapore from Malaysia. Based on research material drawn from archives in Singapore, Britain, Australia, and the United States, A Moment Of Anguish goes beyond previous studies to unravel the hidden story behind this traumatic and controversial episode in Singapore's modern history. Unpublished sources have been drawn together to recreate key events which bring out the tensions, conflicts, and personalities of the period. Engaging, informative, authoritative, and "reader friendly", A Moment Of Anguish is highly recommended for students of Malaysian and Singapore history, Asian and Pacific Rim international studies, and American foreign policy involvement in Singapore.

moon has made a very readable guide that is simply better than the rest. lonely planet also has a good guide, but the information seems to be tied together with rambling of factoids.

Honestly, I am enthralled by the work of this man. Writing against the premise that profit maximization is (or should be) the goal of individuals in developing countries, Scott's thesis is that peasant social order is predicated on the fact that the worst-case scenario is starvation. Peasants seek to minimize the risk of this, and as such, to not maximize profits.... which is what the 'West' has tried to force them to do.... (and failed...)

I do not know who you are who is reading this review. I am a student of political economy specializing in South Asia.... for my studies into the rise of Sinhalese nationalism in Ceylon, this book was invaluable. I'd read this book just for fun, too....

This book is a must read, though, for any student of south and east asian development, agricultural development, or developmental theory in general. Bon chance.

I had the feeling of being in the heart of a tropical rainforest while reading this book. The story setting is as compelling as the tale: rivers, thick foliage, flora and fauna, snakes, butterflies, frogs, birds etc. A visual treat that will help a child appreciate a charming folk tale of how the humble but quick mouse deer outwits the fearsome crocodile. One of the most well-known folk tales in the Southeast Asia region.