Tip for An Amazing Read

I am taking a side-trip from my usual blog fare to include a review of Shantaram, a book that my Dear Readers may be interested in delving into. It's now on my Top Ten list. So, here is my review as posted on Goodreads:

Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a big, magnificent, astounding book. I wonder why many people have not heard of it. Roberts paints a picture of India and the region that leaves the reader virtually breathless by its description. This story would make a great movie, but this is one of a handful of books I've read that could not be translated adequately to the screen. One must read it to appreciate the wonder and beauty of it all. I wait for the sequel with huge anticipation.

If you are looking for a book to consume you, Shantaram is it. Warning: This book is not an "easy" read; there is a lot of violence and Roberts' description of Indian prisons is quite graphic. That noted, this is a book about redemption, salvation and ultimately about love. I gritted my teeth and plowed through the unpleasant parts, knowing they are an important part of this autobiographical novel.