Art of Travel, The
De Botton, AlainDe Botton writes an alternative travelogue. His companions are writers, artists and philosophers, such as Gustave Flaubert, Edward Hopper, Charles Baudelaire, William Wordsworth, Vincent van Gogh and John Ruskin who give focus and direction to his journeys. A philosophical investigation into the motivations for travel.
Comments from Groups
Excellent animated discussion. So well written. Most of us enjoyed the book, some disliked it interestingly for being too intellectual! Hokianga 001. A mixed reaction. Nelson 44. Some of us really enjoyed this book and it's different approach to travel. Others found it hard going. Diamond Harbour 2. Well worth the attention taken to read this. A great discussion followed and people going on their travels went with a new outlook and vision. Havelock 001.
Pages
261
261
Year
2002
2002
Reviews
09-04-2020
Some members of the group enjoyed the book and there was some discussion about the quirky and true insights it talked about, however others didn't finish it. His general style was considered a bit false, you could say! Illustrations not of a high quality.
09-04-2020
Not what we expected. The style put a few people off, but by and large we enjoyed it as it was very different.
09-04-2020
A mixed review of this book - some really liked it, while others found it a bit boring and just a blend of individual musings.
09-04-2020
Most of the members found the book a delight to read, bit it didn't generate very much discussion.
09-04-2020
Mixed feelings re this book. Some disliked it and could not relate to the author. Many felt de Botton has no humanity and has a "snobbish" attitude towards people. Others enjoyed the book as a series of philosophical statements with much to ponder on, especially the sections on Art, and Country vs. City.
09-04-2020
We had a great discussion about travel vs tourism, but for most it was a struggle to finish reading the book. However, we had one of the best discussions ever. It became very philosophical.
09-04-2020
We absolutely loved this book. It not only helps teach you how to get more out of your travel experience, but also how to get more out of your everyday life.
02-07-2019
Only 3 of us read the book in its entirety. One loved it for the contemplative style but most found it difficult to engage with, giving up before the end. Overall disappointing and not one we would recommend.
28-06-2019
We all loved this book and gave it an average of 9/10! It provoked a lot of very interesting discussion about the clever way the author used different ideas of viewing travel -through painting and literature as well as physical. We all thought our children should read it too!
28-06-2019
We all enjoyed the book as we are all seasoned travellers. Promoted much discussion on the more philosophical and profound thoughts, also personal interesting tales - then onto the effects of tourism on our own country and our own global footprint, and the world changing around us. None of us would have read the book without the book club influence, but felt it worthwhile if a little "ponderous" at times.
28-06-2019
Most enjoyed the style of writing. Some of it was quite hard to read.
24-03-2019
Quite an interesting structure with the artistic guides to travel. A few of us reminisced about our own travel experiences, and we enjoyed the photos. Would recommend as something for a bit of a change.