Touch the Dragon a Thai Journal

Rating:
Summary: EXCELLENT!
Review: After returning from studying abroad in SE Asia for five months, I found myself almost at a loss in trying to tell others about my experience. I read this book at the end of my three month home-stay in Thailand, and it really "hit home." I could really identify with her experiences, thoughts and feelings. I have encouraged my friends and family to read this book because it is so accurate, and provides an excellent glimpe on life in Thailand -- a land like no other, but one that I will always love.

Rating:
Summary: I've never even left this continent...
Review: Lest anyone think they must travel overseas to enjoy this book, please consider my insights. I read this book almost three years ago, and base my comments on vague memories. What impressed me most was the incredible maturity this author exhibits: the courage of a high school student who wants to go where she does not know the language, the frustrating attempts at fitting into a new culutre, coping with lost loves, and finding beauty in truly "foreign" people. I think this book helped me to trust my instincts in terms of choosing experiences I can grow from. It also taught me that unexpected, or uninvited, challenges benefit the soul in ways we don't realize immediately. One certainly does not have to live in Thailand to appreciate the sentiment, vision, and excellent literary style this author presents.

Rating:
Summary: Real Thailand (and Thais) from cover to cover
Review: Simply one of the most beautiful and masterfully written books I have read in my life. "Touch the Dragon" is a poetic journal that gives the reader first person insight into a paradoxical and often confusing culture, but does so through sensitive and moving prose. Karen Connolly is a remarkable, gifted writer, and her words will leave you with images that you will remember all of your life. Even if you think you "know" Thailand, you'll discover it all over again in this book.