Island of Bali vintage travel book - authoritative cultural

In this review of Island of Bali the reviewer finds a richly detailed, vintage account that will appeal to readers seeking historical perspective on Balinese life. Miguel Covarrubias's 1937 work is presented here in a modern reprint, and the single biggest reason to buy is its depth of cultural observation: the book offers an authentic, historically grounded view of Balinese society that remains useful for researchers, travelers with a serious interest, and collectors of ethnographic literature.

Key Features

• Original 1937 text: The reprint preserves Covarrubias's contemporaneous observations, making it a direct source for historical study of Bali's customs and religion.
• Ethnographic detail: The volume furnishes specific descriptions of day-to-day life, costumes and manners that benefit readers wanting practical cultural context.
• New biography included: A specially commissioned modern biography of the author provides useful background on Covarrubias's career as an artist, caricaturist and ethnologist.
• Accessible reissue: Republished in an affordable, high quality edition, it makes a rare antiquarian text available without the premium price of originals.
• Illustrative pedigree: The author's reputation for illustration and theatre work gives the narrative a distinct visual and interpretive sensibility that enhances cultural descriptions.

Who It's For

This book is best for readers who value historical ethnography: scholars, students of Southeast Asian history, cultural historians, and travellers who want a deeper, period-specific context for Bali beyond modern guidebooks. Its descriptive focus is particularly useful for anyone researching traditional costumes, rituals, or social customs.

Those seeking a contemporary travel guide with practical logistical advice, maps, or up-to-the-minute tourism information should look elsewhere; this is a historical and cultural study rather than a current practical guide. Readers who need exceptionally modern readability formats or large-print editions may also prefer alternative reprints.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Deep, authentic cultural description that supports academic or serious personal study.
• The new author biography places the work in context and enriches understanding of Covarrubias's perspective.
• High quality, affordable reprint makes a rare antiquarian title obtainable for more readers.

Cons

• Some readers report mixed readableness, with physical presentation or style making it less comfortable for casual reading.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Island of Bali is a valuable reissue for readers who want a historically grounded, richly observed account of Balinese society. While not a practical travel guide, its ethnographic detail and the added biography make it good value for researchers and collectors who appreciate original period voices without paying collectors' prices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this edition include new material?
Yes, the modern reprint includes a specially commissioned new biography of Miguel Covarrubias.

Is this a current travel guide?
No, it is a historical and ethnographic work based on the 1937 text and not intended as a contemporary practical guide.

Who was Miguel Covarrubias?
Covarrubias was a Mexican artist, caricaturist, ethnologist and historian known for his illustrations and theatre work, and the book reflects his observational style.