Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Asesela Ravuvu
The Facade of Democracy: Fijian Struggles for Political Control
(Reader
Publishing, Fiji). An insight into the mind of a Fijian nationalist, critical of both European
and Indian involvement in Fijian society.
Sir Vijay R. Singh
Speaking Out
(Knightsbrook, Australia). Not to be confused with the
golfer of the same name, the author of this bold collection of thought-provoking articles is
one of Fiji's most prominent Fiji-Indian politicians. Focusing on the events of the 1987 and
2000 coups, the topic ruffled quite a few feathers, prompting several nationalist politicians to
call for it to be banned.
Peter Thomson
Kava in the Blood
(Tandem Press, UK). A recollection of life growing up
in Fiji, of serving in the government administration and of confronting and ultimately accept-
ing the hard realities of the coups.
NATURE AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Clare Morrison
Herpetofauna of Fiji
(University of the South Pacific). A little book cover-
ing a pretty slim subject in scientific detail, with colour photos of Fiji's reptiles and amphibi-
ans.
Ian Osborn
Beautiful Fiji
(Pacific Travel Guides, Fiji). Photographic journey through Fiji's
pristine environment.
Dick Watling
A Guide to the Birds of Fiji & Western Polynesia
(Environmental Consultants,
Fiji,
pacificbirds.com
). The birdies' bible, with colour plates and detailed accounts of 173
species found throughout the region.
Dr Michael A. Weiner
Secrets of Fijian Medicine
(University of California Press, US). Re-
cords some of Fiji's dying knowledge of traditional medicine. Arranged by type of illness and
listing Fijian and English plant names.
TRAVELLERS' TALES
Kim Gravelle
Romancing the Islands
(Graphics Pacific, Fiji). Written by one of the South
Pacific's leading photojournalists, Gravelle recounts 44 of his liveliest tales of adventure, all
featuring a refreshing hint of humour.
Paul Theroux
Happy Isles of Oceania
(Penguin, US & UK). A good read from one of the
few big-name travel writers to have written about the South Pacific. His account of Fiji, one
of several island nations covered, portrays some of the less-than-democratic aspects of Fijian
society and was felt by many to have cut a little too close to the bone.
J. Maarten Troost
Getting Stoned with Savages
(Broadway Books, US). A witty tale of mis-
adventure that begins in Vanuatu and ends with a candid view of Fiji in the modern world.
