Positives Reviewers widely praise Paul Theroux's The Tao of Travel as a unique and valuable compendium of travel literature. The book is lauded for its carefully curated collection of quotes and excerpts from a vast array of notable travel writers, including Theroux himself, organized thematically around various aspects of travel. Many readers found it an excellent resource for discovering new authors and classics in the genre, providing ample material to expand their personal reading lists. Theroux's own contributions, such as his insightful introductions, commentary, and biographical notes, are frequently highlighted as particularly engaging and enriching. The book delves into the philosophy, wisdom, and diverse experiences of travel, covering everything from the practicalities of journeys to imaginary expeditions and the distinction between travelers and tourists. Its physical design, often described as beautiful and reminiscent of a travel journal, also received positive remarks.
Negatives Despite its merits, some reviewers found the book's fragmented, quotation-heavy format challenging, preferring a continuous narrative over the "chop and change" nature of multiple short excerpts. This structure occasionally led to a feeling that quotes were presented out of context or lacked overall coherence. A few readers perceived a degree of self-indulgence, noting a significant presence of Theroux's own writings and a tone that some found judgmental towards non-travelers or "snarky." Concerns were also raised about perceived omissions of certain prominent travel writers or insufficient coverage of others. Additionally, the audiobook format was specifically cited as difficult to follow due to the frequent shifts between authors and topics, and some print editions reportedly contained typos and lacked a comprehensive bibliography for all discussed works.
Conclusion Overall, The Tao of Travel is considered a distinctive and insightful contribution to travel literature, best appreciated as a reference work, an inspirational guide, or an anthology rather than a traditional narrative. While its unique format may not appeal to all, it offers a rich tapestry of perspectives on the act of traveling. This book is highly recommended for those who love both travel and reading, readers interested in the philosophy and history of journeys, and anyone looking to discover new voices in travel writing. It particularly suits readers who enjoy browsing, dipping into chapters, collecting quotes, or those who appreciate a book that sparks further exploration and reflection on the world and its many paths.
