Great Railway Bazaar by Paul Theroux

The Great Railway Bazaar is a travelogue by American novelist Paul Theroux, first published in 1975. It recounts Theroux’s four-month journey by train in 1973 from London through Europe, the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, and his return via the Trans-Siberian Railway.

The book explores themes such as colonialism, American imperialism, poverty, and ignorance, which are embedded in Theroux’s accounts of sights and sounds he experienced as well as his conversations with other people such as his fellow travelers.

What I Liked

I will read anything by Paul Theroux and Bill Bryson. They are both crochety old guys. But Theroux especially is master of observation, talking to people, and traveling in a way to truly understand a region and the people who live there. He’s also funny, direct, and interesting.

What I Did Not Like

Nothing – excellent read. It’s still on my shelf to read again.

Great Railway Bazaar by Paul Theroux

$13.61

In The Great Railway Bazaar, Paul Theroux takes us on a four-month train journey across continents, starting from London and winding through Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. His observations touch on big themes like colonialism and poverty, all while sharing his candid conversations with fellow travelers. What I really appreciate about Theroux is his sharp eye for detail and his humor; he makes the journey feel real and relatable. Honestly, I can’t find anything to criticize here—it’s an excellent read that I’ll definitely revisit.

Pros:

• Paul Theroux is a master of observation and understanding of different cultures.
• The writing is funny, direct, and interesting.
• It's an excellent read that I would revisit.

Cons:

• Nothing - excellent read.

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01/14/2025 08:47 pm GMT