Himalayan Odyssey

Rating:
Summary: This book is an odyssey in itself!
Review: "Himalayan Odyssey" by Dr. Parker Antin is an excellent story about the author's journey across Nepal. Not only does this book detail the man's physical trek through the lesser know regions of Nepal, but also offers insight to the spiritual nature of such an expedition. I think that this book is a must read for anyone who plans on backpacking through remote lands or even just wishes to do so vicariously through Dr. Antin.

Rating:
Summary: Single-minded pursuit of a goal
Review: I was struck continuously with Parker's unchanging selfishness. The entire expedition nearly died just to reach HIS goal. He defies the police to enter forbidden mountain areas, ends up getting the entire expedition lost and his best guide nearly dies as Parker drags him over mountain passes in single-minded pursuit of Parker's goal. Even at the end, he casts aside a woman he loves because he deems their cultures "too different" and, although he thinks she may be able to cope with the differences, he admits it is he who cannot. Nothing seems to reach this guy. He's determined to have life meet his expectations, no matter what cost.