Balkan Ghosts, A Journey Through History

by Robert D. Kaplan, originally published: New York: St. Martin’s Press, 1993.

Even though published 17 years ago, Kaplan’s portrayal of his travels throughout the Balkan Peninsula is still a revelation to most Western readers. In this more-than-a-travel memoir or travelogue, Kaplan describes the not often understood histories and peoples of Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Romania and the countries of former Yugoslavia. Kaplan shows why Communism failed in the Balkans; it did nothing to end the historical tensions. This is not an easy book to read as the atrocities committed by all parties are disturbing but Kaplan’s depictions are balanced and without generalities.

(This is just one of the many books I am reading before traveling to Croatia.)

That Uncertain Feeling

by Kingsley Amis, first published in 1955

In Wales, assistant librarian John Lewis has a young family and a small salary. A bit of a ladies' man, John soon finds himself tempted by a seductive socialite who also offers a boost to his career--if he wants it bad enough.

Though written in 1955, this humorous portrait of modern life, including marriage, boredom and adultery, still holds up today. Also see the film Only Two Can Play (1962) , starring Peter Sellers, based on Amis' book.