Book Description
The complete handbook for the world of the concierge. This book was written from first hand experience and addresses all situations involving a hotel concierge from the philosophy to the the paper clips. It is a comprehensive guide to the hotel concierge. It can be used as a textbook or for training purposes as it has lesson plans and workshhets included.
Customer Reviews:
A "Must Read" for the "Five-Star Minded" hospitality professional (or, future professional)!.......2007-09-13
I found this book by chance as I was browsing titles and was very taken by its title. I was very pleased with its content. I found it to be textbook-instructional regarding concept and practice, as well as a general guide for setting up one's own concierge operation - whether that be in a hotel, corporate office building, or other high-profile "hub" service environment. After having spent more than 20 years as a NYC hotel manager, I found this book a refreshing read. It helped me reaffirm within myself the reasons why I pursued a hospitality career in the first place. I was additionally pleased to have discovered that I had actually worked with some of the hospitality professionals given credit by the author during my own career!
OK for beginners...........2007-07-12
This is a good "starter" book for a new Concierge. I have been a Concierge for 10 years and purchased this book to keep me "fresh". It was not useful at all. If you want to become a Concierge, you can't learn what you need to know from a book - it takes A LOT of hands on experience in a busy hotel to be able to adapt to any Concierge situation. But, if you are starting up a new Concierge desk, the forms are helpful.
a very useful book for people in hospitality industry.......2007-01-12
The book is very useful especially for the professionals in the hospitality industry and guest services. Easy to understand and follow, full of real case studies. Can be referred in trainings of concierge clerks.
Comprehensive Guide. Price Varies: from 30 to 3,000.......2006-12-22
I bought this book for my brother who is a Chef Concierge. As I was looking for a title, I came across some interesting findings about "Ultimate Service", which I share in this review. I am not a professional in the field, but this handbook seems indeed very comprehensive and effective. It is not about setting up a small business, but what the profession actually is and how it is managed on a daily basis. My two main points are as follows.
First, nowhere on the internet I could find the content list showing the book structure. So, as I now have the book, regrouping its 17 chapters, these are the main topics in panoramic view: 1) philosophy and ethics; 2) the profession in general; 3) relationships and mentality; 4) routine management (huge part); 5) dealing with the press, and coping with stress and angry customers; 6) industry, technology and the future of the profession; 7) appendix with management forms.
Second, you need to consider buying this book asap. I phoned Prentice Hall (publisher) to get the content list (above), and found out that the book is out of print, and that they no longer have rights over it. I then realized why the publisher has no memory of the book, when I came across one of Holly Stiel's websites: a very elegant, New Agey business project focusing on customer service, now selling a repackaged version of the same ideas in a book with CD-ROM for $3,000 (no typo here). So, think hard and answer: why pay $3,000 if you can get the essence for $30 (while it lasts)?
In sum, I recommend this book, both for its substance and price.
Excellent .......2006-11-04
I feel that this book was exactly what I was looking for in relation to pursuing a career as a concierge in a hotel. It was very thorough and is already saving me a ton of time on research and gives a great feeling of authenticity and enthusiasm in how to deal with the public.
Average customer rating:
- Over the Top - Lets pack and go back!
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Luxury Hotels: Top of the World (Luxury Hotels)
Patricia Masso
Manufacturer: Te Neues Publishing Company
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Binding: Hardcover
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Luxury Hotels: America (Luxury Hotels)
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Luxury Hotels Europe
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Luxury Houses Seaside (Luxury Books)
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Luxury Private Islands (Luxury Books)
ASIN: 3832791434 |
Book Description
What makes a luxury hotel "top of the world?" The answers might include exquisite linens, museum-quality furniture, stunning surroundings, and of course, impeccable standards and exacting attention to detail. This collection of the world's very best lodgings profiles the ultimate in accommodations across the globe. This generously proportioned addition to the teNeues' Luxury Hotels series contains an extensive selection of delectable hotel interiors, exteriors and surroundings. Perhaps only a select few will ever get to stay here, but now many more can dream of doing so. This special double editon is over 400 pages in length.
Customer Reviews:
Over the Top - Lets pack and go back!.......2007-05-06
This book is beautifully presented and photographed of some of my favorite hotels around the world. The properties chosen epitomize the full sense of luxury and being. I am fortunate being a merchant of the finest in luxury home furnishings that I travel the world searching for more "luxury treasures" and stay in many of the properties listed and showcased. The photography is much "real" of the feeing of the properties. Looking through the pages, I thought, "they missed this or that", but overall its a spectacular presented book....Splurge, pick up the telephone and call the airlines for a dream trip of luxury.
Book Description
An indispensable reference tool for vacationers in Orlando, this book brings you all the menus and individual prices from restaurants around Walt Disney World, including parks, hotels, and even Downtown Disney. Updated several times within each year, The Unofficial Dining Guide to Walt Disney World lists complete menus from every eatery and provides actual dollar amounts, not just approximations. Best of all, handy indexes for each park make it simple to find the food items you're looking for at a quick glance. There's even a guide (and index) for restaurants near Walt Disney World, should you wish to venture off-property. Everything you'd ever want to know about the dining experience at Disney World is here, making it not only an ideal tool for planning your trip, but a perfect companion when visiting the parks.
Customer Reviews:
Info is available on-line.......2007-07-17
There is an excellent website which provides complete menus for all WDW restaurants. (Info that is updated very regularly.) So, if you have internet access (and if you are reading this review, you do) there's no need to buy the book. (Try allearsnet.com)
Still, if you'd rather carry the info with you, without having to print out the menus, this book may meet your needs.
A list book.......2007-07-06
This book is simply a photocopy of every menu at every restaurant in WDW. If it is updated regulalry, it may be beneficial. Each page shows a Disney restaurant with all entrees offered at the eatery and current prices. Good resource if you've never eaten in Disney before.
DINING GUIDE - GOOD FOR PLANNING WHERE TO EAT.......2007-06-27
THIS IS A GREAT LITTLE GUIDE
AND EVEN IF THE PRICES CHANGE A LITTLE FROM THE TIME OF PRINT, FOR THE MOST PART ITS GOING TO BE ACCURATE
IT GIVES YOU A GOOD IDEA WHERE YOU MAY OR MAY NOT WANT TO EAT BEFORE YOU GET THERE-
I FOUND IT TO BE WORTH THE MONEY
Not impressed.......2007-06-27
Some menus are not given in as much detail as they could be. For a book totally devoted to WDW menus, I would have thought that there could have been more explanation of some of the food. Will date very quickly too.
Walt Disney Dining.......2007-06-08
Avery good book well Written and INFORMTIVE ABOUT THE RESTAURANTS IN THE PARKS&HOTELS
Book Description
Experience the luxury and romance of tropical resorts and eco-lodges from around the world. Inspired by indigenous architecture, environmentalism, and remote, awesomely beautiful natural settings, these small hotels and lodges represent a new wave in hospitality design-extreme travel and indigenous cultural experiences. These resorts embrace many aspects of eco-tourism, including indigenous building methods and styles, and site sensitive, small-scale planning. Projects featured from the Caribbean, the Philippines, Costa Rica, Bali, Australia, and Polynesia, are remarkable, original pieces of architecture, functional yet beautiful to experience and look at in their natural settings.
Customer Reviews:
Good places but lack of content and small pictures........2007-05-08
Please read the reviews before buying this book since you might get or not what you are looking for.
In my opinion the pictures selected are not bad at all but more than half of them are too small. You'll even find a blank page with a 2" x 2" picture on the upright corner, that's bad since the page is not even populated with content about the picture. It's a global tour of some of the trendiest resorts in the globe but once again poorly presented in terms of content and sizes of the pictures selected. When the pictures are not small then it's the angle selected that doesn't give us a whole idea of the space. The only value that I found was the list of locations that could then be visit by internet for more details. I'm giving it 3 out 5 starts since despite all the cons it was not expensive.
Tropical Travel.......2004-05-28
A nice book with information on a variety of tropical travel resorts. The photos are great, but too small and info informative. A great idea that could have been executed better. Wonder if they were saving on printing costs since the pictures are so small. Nevertheless, I purchased a copy when it was a bargain book so I don't feel cheated as I do enjoy the book.
Completely Overrated- Must Miss!!.......2002-04-15
Good topic but poor execution. Its obvious that little time was spent producing this book. Compared to similar books, the pictures of the hotels are quite small, limited in number and not of the best quality. Additionally, there are a number of other resorts listed in the back where the author has merely included a brief description of the resort along with a tiny picture. I was expecting more in-depth coverage of these resorts. Also, the map in the front of the book is wrong. They have mislocated certain resorts- placing resorts in the Indian Ocean on the continent of Africa. Sloppy work!!!
Exotic travel & Architecture book, inpirational.......2001-06-12
An exotic travel book and an exotic architecture book in one. Even though I am not a hotel or resort designer, nor am I actively searching for a vacation spot, this book was ideal for me since I was looking to create the open, breezy, jungle feel of these tropical spaces in my own home.
Over twenty different resorts are detailed with numerous photos of each as well as information on design principles, materials used, interior design and amenities. There is also a people and places section give information on the architect, owner, and the resort's history. Sixteen others are contained on single pages with a few small photos and text on the layout and design.
I love the vibrant colors and spacious feel of the Hotel Bel Air Costa Careyes. I also like the Hotel Salto Chico with its abundance of huge windows and the Hotel Bora Bora that has all its bungalows on stilts over the water. Since one day I hope to live in a dome home I love circular layout plan provide by the Banyan Tree Maldives.
I like it that the book features resorts that are have taken steps to be environmentally friendly. In case you would like to visit some of these beautiful places there is a map showing where each is located. Contact information including phone, website and email for each is also here.
This book takes you on a journey through the world to exotic locations. It is great for people looking for exciting travel destinations or for building and décor ideas for their own homes.
Average customer rating:
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No Ordinary Hotel
Adrian Waller
Manufacturer: Vehicule Press
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Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 0919890865 |
Book Description
This study covers the world outlook for boutique hotels across more than 200 countries. For each year reported, estimates are given for the latent demand, or potential industry earnings (P.I.E.), for the country in question (in millions of U.S. dollars), the percent share the country is of the region and of the globe. These comparative benchmarks allow the reader to quickly gauge a country vis-à-vis others. Using econometric models which project fundamental economic dynamics within each country and across countries, latent demand estimates are created. This report does not discuss the specific players in the market serving the latent demand, nor specific details at the product level. The study also does not consider short-term cyclicalities that might affect realized sales. The study, therefore, is strategic in nature, taking an aggregate and long-run view, irrespective of the players or products involved.
Book Description
Enter more than 250 of the most beautiful guestrooms in the world, and dream up wonderful ideas for your own sleeping quarters. Herein lie all manner of inspiration for every sort of bedroom, from lofty hideaways under slanting eaves, to enormous, two-room master suites. You'll get ideas for bedspreads and pillows, curtains and upholstery, wallpaper and window seats, and ideas for incorporating antiques or a favorite collection into your decor. An amazing showcase of beds, from four-posters fit for a king, to unique, handcrafted antiques in all their intricate glory. Plus ideas for incorporating extra features like whirlpool tubs and fireplaces into the sleeping chamber.
Customer Reviews:
Don't waste your time.......2007-10-04
I thought this book would give me some inspiration on how to paint my bedroom with the appeal of a five-star hotel room. It did not. It's just a book with a bunch of pictures of rooms that don't have much appeal at all. The price of the book, $29.99 should have given me a little something. I was not impressed.
Book Description
Want to be pampered, revitalized, and refreshed? Select from 100 carefully chosen spas in more than thirty countries. From detailed descriptions of facilities and services to contact information and rates, this guidebook provides everything new and experienced spa-goers need to know to get the most out of their spa experience.
Customer Reviews:
100 Best Spas of the World.......2007-07-09
Good information, but not as much visual content as I would have liked. I expected several quality photographs of the spas, and found only about 10.
A superbly organized and "user friendly" compendium of the best spas worldwide.......2006-06-07
Part of the outstanding "Insiders' Guide" series, and now in an expanded and thoroughly updated edition, One-Hundred Best Spas Of The World is expertly co-authored by Bernard Burt and Pamela Price is a superbly organized and "user friendly" compendium of the best spas worldwide. Descriptively showcasing each featured spa, One-Hundred Best Spas Of The World offers essential details on their facilities and services, FAQs on spa etiquette, the best spa packages, and practical planning tips for a stress-free vacation. One-Hundred Best Spas Of The World is very highly recommended for all readers anticipating a vacation anywhere around the globe and are searching for the best choice of spas available in the planned destinations.
Good, but it could have been better.......2006-05-12
Let me start by saying that I am a huge fan of this series. The 2nd edition of "100 Best Spas of the World" was directly responsible for getting me into the spa scene. And it provided a wealth of information that allowed me to create my own spa vacations (sometimes at a much cheaper price than going to some of the posh places listed in the book) simply by taking a less expensive hotel or motel room in the same beautiful towns, and then going into the spas on an hourly or daily basis. But what seems to have happened somewhere between the 2nd and 3rd editions, is that cost-cutting accountants decided that the beautiful color photographs which made the 2nd edition such a masterpiece were no longer cost-effective, and they were relegated to 15 pages in the front of the 3rd edition. This is unfortunate, for it was those beautiful photographs spread throughout the entire text of the 2nd edition that made the reader feel that they were "there" enjoying the wonders of spa living. Now, the 3rd edition is still an excellent book, with a wealth of pertinent information concerning the great spas of the world. But my frank recommendation (especially if you are a beginner in going to spas) is that you get yourself a copy of the 2nd edition of this book (dated 2003). The photographs are what "made" this book, and hopefully for the next edition the publishers will return to the previous format, which made this book the best of its kind in the marketplace. I'm still giving this book 5-stars because of the respect I have for the information contained in the book, but the 2nd edition is deserving of 6 or 7 stars, and it's too bad that this new edition is not in the same category. If you want a book on your coffee table that will give you a visual tour of some of the great spas of the world, and make you yearn to go to a spa on your next vacation, get the 2nd edition.
Book Description
Cocktails in Tahiti is a visually stunning, full color showpiece combining a playful yet sophisticated look at Tahiti's magnificent luxury resorts and their most delicious, flirtatious, and slightly decadent cocktails. Filled with unusual insights, folklore, and facts about Tahiti and her islands,
Cocktails in Tahiti has something to tempt and delight all tastes.
Over 50 sumptuous cocktail recipes blend exotic fruits, juices, and liquors providing a flavorful and vibrant palette from which to capture the fun and often elegant mood of these captivating islands. You'll learn the history of the legendary Mai Tai, Tahiti's most famous cocktail, and discover the secrets of the intriguing rums, vodkas, and distinctive liqueurs used in creating Tahiti's most celebrated libations.
A special section features the signature cocktail recipes from Tahiti's most outstanding luxury resorts along with spectacular photographs and overviews of these renowned hotels.
Whether served from a coconut or elegantly chilled in a martini glass of fine crystal, the flowering and colorful cocktails of Tahiti have an undeniable presence all their own. If you are dreaming of a future trip or reliving special memories from a past visit to these beautiful islands, this wonderful collection of delightful drink recipes, dazzling hotel photographs, and distinctive insights will put you in a tropical, tranquil mood as you sip your way to our magical paradise.
Al Keahi, Managing Director, Tahiti Tourism Bureau N.A:
A must have book of fun and facts for anyone who has visited or dreams of visiting Tahiti.
New Book Resources, October 2006:
We can't wait to try out the recipes and imagine that we are at one of the featured, dreamlike hotels.
Vincent Guerin, Director of Sales, Starwood Hotels & Resorts French Polynesia:
The finest collection of resort photographs and cocktail recipes from across Tahiti.
Customer Reviews:
What a fun and entertaining book!.......2007-08-05
Not only does this book have a wealth of information on a destination we long to travel to, but it offers a wide variety of fun and DELICIOUS drinks.
We love to entertain and it has been great having 'Cocktails in Tahiti' out at our parties...quite a conversation piece! Everyone loves the stunning photos of Tahiti, the scrumptious drinks, and the intriguing facts of the islands. Thank you!
Experience a whole new world of Cocktails!.......2007-04-28
Always looking for new and exciting cocktails to try, I purchased this book. Each page became more interesting, not only for the drinks presented but for the knowledge that Mr. Bondurant shares about Tahiti, it's culture, local accomodations, etc.
The photos are exceptional and each drink I have mixed has been better than the last. I have bought several as gifts for coworkers and friends. You won't be disappointed!
Cocktails from paradise at your fingertips.......2007-02-06
"Cocktails in Tahiti" is a must have for any lover of spirits with a tropical flair. The author has artfully put together a wonderful collection of cocktails, both old and new, from the scenic paradise of Tahiti. Colorful photographs and descriptions of each drink will have your mouth watering to imbibe several of these treats from the South Pacific. If you are looking for something new to bring some tropical flavor to your cocktail library, then you need this book!
This book will make you fall in love with Tahiti.......2006-12-18
I have always wanted to go to the Tahitian islands but have never had the opportunity. Now, after reading "Cocktails in Tahiti", I am planning a trip to Tahiti for next Summer. I originally thought "Cocktails in Tahiti" would give me some good ideas for entertaining, but soon found out it contained many intersting nuggets about the islands and their history. To sum it up, I am packed and ready to go to these beautiful islands.
If you've ever dreamed of a tropical vacation or just need to brighten up your winter, you should read this book.
Beautiful Book.......2006-12-09
I have never been to Tahiti, but after reading the fun, informative facts about Tahiti, seeing the beautiful pictures, and sampling some of the excellent cocktail recipes, I am ready to go!
Mr. Bondurant's love and knowledge of Tahiti come through clearly in the book, which is very well laid out. It provides enough information and explains things in such a way that an amateur can make delicious Tahitian cocktails as well as the most experienced bartender. The fun facts about Tahiti, along with summaries of the total hotels and the gorgeous pictures, makes this book a must have.
Until I can take my first trip to Tahiti, this book will help bring a little Tahiti to my home.
Book Description
1919: After surviving the Great War, Major Brendan Archer makes his way to Ireland, hoping to discover whether he is indeed betrothed to Angela Spencer, whose Anglo-Irish family owns the once-aptly-named Majestic Hotel in Kilnalough. But his fiancée is strangely altered and her family's fortunes have suffered a spectacular decline. The hotel's hundreds of rooms are disintegrating on a grand scale; its few remaining guests thrive on rumors and games of whist; herds of cats have taken over the Imperial Bar and the upper stories; bamboo shoots threaten the foundations; and piglets frolic in the squash court. Meanwhile, the Major is captivated by the beautiful and bitter Sarah Devlin. As housekeeping disasters force him from room to room, outside the order of the British Empire also totters: there is unrest in the East, and in Ireland itself the mounting violence of "the troubles."
Troubles is a hilarious and heartbreaking work by a modern master of the historical novel.
Customer Reviews:
"Deep in the grounds of a burnt-out hotel.......2007-05-23
Among the bathtubs and the washbasins
A thousand mushrooms crowd to a keyhole."
"A Disused Shed in Co. Wexford". Derek Mahon.
Irish poet Derek Mahon dedicated the haunting poem quoted above to J.G. Farrell, author of "Troubles". It is a marvelous poem that pays tribute to an absolutely marvelous book; one of the finest books I have read in recent memory.
Farrell, born in Liverpool in 1935 is best-remembered for three books. "Troubles", "The Siege of Krishnapur" (which won Farrell the U.K.'s 1973 Booker Prize), and "The Singapore Grip". Shortly after publication of "The Singapore Grip" Farrell moved to Ireland. He died a few months later when, apparently while fishing, he was swept out to sea and drowned, at age 44. Each of these three books, known collectively as the "Empire Trilogy, is set during a time of crisis in what was once the British Empire. "The Siege of Krishnapur" is set in India during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and "The Singapore Grip" is set in Singapore at the beginning of World War II at the time of the Japanese attack and occupation of Singapore.
"Troubles" takes place in the Irish countryside in 1920, at the height of the turbulence that resulted in the creation of the Irish Republic and the eventual partition of Ireland. The protagonist, the English Major Brendan Archer, is a survivor of the Great War. Upon his demobilization Archer decides to travel from his home in London to Ireland in order to finalize his relationship with Angela Spencer, a young lady he met and perhaps became engaged to, while on leave during the war. Angela's father runs what was once a grand hotel, The Majestic, and Archer finds himself immediately swept up in the collapse of what was once a thriving Anglo-Irish community in Ireland. The Majestic is a mess; it is rotting from within in much the same way that English dominion in Ireland is rotting from without. "Troubles" looks both at the isolated, and fairly bizarre world of the inhabitants of the Majestic while the Irish rebellion creeps closer and closer to intruding on their world.
"Troubles" is an admirable and sometimes uncomfortable mixture of drama and comedy. Some have compared the comedic elements of "Troubles" to the best of Evelyn Waugh and the comparison is certainly apt. I'd only add that Farrell's dark humor is tinted with an element of semi-tragic slapstick such that, given its hotel setting, I could not help but be reminded of John Cleese's "Fawlty Towers". Yet, at the same time, there is an ineffable sadness that permeates the story. Major Archer, whose wartime experiences are only hinted at, is portrayed as a well-intentioned but singularly ineffectual protagonist. He sees the physical rot that surrounds him but is powerless to stop it. He falls in love but his pining and puppy dog-like attempts at courting are rebuffed with so much condescension that I could only wonder why he continued to bother.
I echo the two previous reviewers who have warned readers to save John Banville's brief, but powerful, Introduction to "Troubles" until after they have read the book. Banville reveals a critical spoiler that once read is impossible to forget. By the time I was halfway through the book I was sure that my advance knowledge of a critical event at the conclusion would detract from the pleasure I would have had if I hadn't seen it coming. I urge readers to save the Introduction until after they have actually read the book.
J.G. Farrell's "Troubles" is a wonderful book and I can say nothing more but urge anyone interested in `discovering' a wonderful writer to start with this book. I also suggest that once you've read the book you look up Mahon's poem (cited above) that was dedicated to Farrell. In many respects that poem serves as both a great tribute and a wonderfully crafted review of a book and the meaning one can glean from it. Highly recommended. L. Fleisig
"...people are insubstantial. They really do not ever last...They never last. A doctor should know.".......2007-05-18
Historical fiction is written to encapsulate a time that perhaps has been forgotten or distorted through a fog of fading memories. JG Farrell has used the art of fiction and the brilliance of his imagination to bring us through the fog and into the dining hall of the Majestic, an oversized 300-room collapsing and pathetic monster of a hotel that is an obvious metaphor for the British Empire itself in the early 1920s. Farrell carefully constructs a unique pocket of society in Ireland, which is living within the fantastically dying hotel. This society consists of old men and women who are relics of a golden age; Edward Spencer, the hotel's blustering British owner and manic-depressive loyal British subject; and the vaguely depressed Major Brendan Archer, a shell-shocked English WW I veteran through whose sensitive, dazed, overwhelmed, properly British, and love-struck eyes the action is seen. The Major has come to the Majestic after the war to marry (or not) Edward's daughter, Angela, with whom he's been conducting a long and somewhat strained correspondence through the war years. This hilarious and absurd imitation of a romance becomes almost surreal, as the Major can barely even locate Angela within the labyrinthine maze of decaying hotel rooms no less carry on any kind of coherent conversation with her about marriage. As time moves forward in this sprawling work, situations and circumstances for the hotel residents and the Major become more and more pronouncedly frustrating, ridiculous, and dangerous, but obliquely seen from the hotel's crumbling window frames is the outside world, and it is a sobering sight. Take this scene, for instance, which takes place by an abandoned potato field near the Majestic: "By a gate leading into one of these fields a man wearing a ragged coat stood, motionless as a rock, his eyes on the ground. As they passed he did not even raise his eyes. What was the fellow doing standing motionless in an empty field, staring at the ground? the Major wondered." The "Irish Times" manages to float into the Majestic every day and brings with it a world up in arms, where murder is frequent, violence is the norm, and the British Empire is holding on for dear life to its treasures around the globe.
Yet this novel is not entirely political. Human beings live within its covers, complete with their loves, their follies, their prejudices, and their madnesses. It's a rich, imaginative, and funny work, even as its atmosphere is morbid and gothic. Although I think "The Siege of Krishnapur," written three years after this, is an even more engaging and brilliant work, taking in a broad sweep of history, that does not detract from this monumental novel, which I highly recommend.
By the way, I completely agree with the reviewer who strongly suggested that John Banville's introduction not be read first. Banville seems to have no hesitancy in spoiling the plot for the reader by revealing crucial details upfront, but his comments are well worth reading. They should be moved to the back of the book, however, and be renamed "Afterword." Fortunately for me, I read them after reading the novel and not before.
Irish tragicomedy.......2007-03-21
Other reviewers on this site have praised the historical and political qualities of this fine novel, but few have emphasized how funny it is. On its surface, it is a leisurely and consistently amusing social comedy in which very little actually happens. Major Brendan Archer, recovering from the trauma of the trenches, comes to a large hotel in the South of Ireland owned by the fierce Anglo-Irish patriarch Edward Spencer, to whose daughter Angela the Major had somehow become engaged some years before. But Angela remains elusive and the Major finds himself in limbo, staying on at the decaying hotel filled with cats and old ladies. People here see only what they want to see; despite domestic disasters, life must be carried on as usual, culminating in one final grand ball held amid the rubble -- a set piece worthy of a comic Tolstoy. While also serving as acute social commentary, Farrell's vision of a world prolonged by wilful blindness is essentially a comic one that could be told in no other way.
Two persistent tensions underlie the comedy: one erotic, the other political. The Major, who is emotionally naive, finds himself dealing with cross-currents of sexual attraction that he is ill-equipped to handle. And this crumbling bastion of Empire finds itself isolated in the tide of Irish nationalism, amid an increasing cycle of terrorism and reprisals. Slowly but inexorably, the comedy of manners metamorphoses into something else. But whether sexual or political (the two seem closely connected), almost all the events in this gathering crisis happen offstage. In this, Farrell shows his debt to Elizabeth Bowen, whose novel THE LAST SEPTEMBER deals with the same period in a similarly oblique way. Bowen's wit may be more refined, but Farrell's range is wider, from dry understatement to outright farce. And he loses nothing for casting his powerful story as a comedy.
A word of warning. John Banville's introduction to the New York Review of Books paperback edition is excellent and a great help to the reader for three of its five pages. But there is a **serious spoiler** on the fourth page (page x as printed) which I now realize colored my reading of the entire book. For readers needing to know more of the political background in advance, my advice would be to look up the Irish War of Independence on Wikipedia (not "Troubles" which returns an article on the later strife in Northern Ireland) and save the Banville essay for reading as an afterword.
Big House, Dogs, and Brits.......2006-09-08
I've now read all three of Farrell's trilogy on the fall of British colonialism. What is fascinating to me is the recurrent images in the three books of big houses falling into disrepair (for different reasons), dogs, and John Bull Brits who cannot understand why the races they "oversee" do not appreciate the "benefits of civilization" that the Brits have "bestowed" on them. Also, each book's point of view is told from the Brits' vantage (or the Anglo-Irish, in the Troubles), with little POV from the oppressed peoples. The latter are a mute force that the Brits can barely comprehend.
Each book is different in its circumstances, of course. Yet the three together form an poignant description of a lost world. And each magnificently uses strange, eccentric characters and black humor to make its points without being didactic or boring.
Of the three, Troubles is my least favorite, in part because I thought the metaphor of the decaying house got beat to death in this one. Also, there is generally less action than in Singapore Grip and Siege of Krishnapur. Yet choosing among the three is a bit like arguing about which was Picasso's greatest painting. Farrell's sure hand is there as he presents his characters with an ironic but sympathetic touch, and makes his points without being preachy.
parts are greater than the whole.......2006-06-25
Set in early 1920s Ireland during the beginning of the time of "the Troubles", this novel is part of J.G. Farrell's Empire Trilogy - all of which sought to show the folly of the British imperial philosophy. The novel focuses on the growing tensions between the "dirty Shinners" (Sinn Fein) and the proud but dotty and ineffective British loyalists. We observe the insanity build in both the characters and the country through the prism of a dispassionate WWI veteran, Major Brendan Archer.
The action takes place in the Majestic, a once-proud but now decaying hotel located in the fictional coastal town of Kilnalough. Its run by an eccentric red-faced English expatriate who has let the hotel slide after the death of his wife - ceding the upper floors of the hotel to a band of rapidly multiplying cats (who live off the rats) and eventually turning the squash court into a home for 12 piglets (later brutally slaughtered by Sinn Fein). When the servants' wing loses its roof, it forces the servants to move into the area of the hotel housing the guests - this mixture of the "quality" with the workers is an outrage to the "quality," but they are unable to stop it from happening.
The hotel serves as an apt metaphor for the decline of British influence and the tension that results when cultures and social philosophies collide. It is an extremely funny (in places), but ultimately tragic novel of a difficult period in both British and Irish history. It's a good, but not great, historical novel which was a little too dark for my tastes.
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