I went into the archives for today’s book:
Holidays in Hell by
P.J. O’Rourke might be just the thing you need to keep you going through the last few weeks of 2005. Or not. This
suggestion might offend some, especially during the ultra politically correct holiday season we are currently immersed
in. But, we’re simply offering up a wide variety of travel books for your holiday reading options, and this
controversial one from the past seemed as good as any to keep the mix interesting. In this collection of political
travel essays published in 2000, O’Rourke invites the reader to laugh along at his quirky sense of humor as he travels
the “hellholes” of the world. O’Rourke chronicles his 1980’s visits to warn-torn countries and cities ensnarled in
violence — places like El Salvador, Beirut and Seoul. He also visits Epcot Center, poking fun at the Magic Kingdom with
a heavy dose of sarcasm. Readers may dislike his approach, but should still be willing to admit that he can tell a good
story. And maybe his stories will keep some laughing through the new year, and help put things in perspective, as we
realize that our holiday stresses might not be so hellish after all, compared to others around the world.