Official Review: The Nepali Flat by Gordon Alexander

e-tasana-williams · Post by **e-tasana-williams** » 22 Sep 2016, 15:23

[Following is the official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Nepali Flat" by Gordon Alexander.]

4 out of 4 stars

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I chose to review The Nepali Flat because I wanted a good laugh, and from the very first page I was not disappointed. Author Gordon Alexander's journalism background clearly shows through his engaging writing style. He describes his travels with such levity and honesty that it makes me want to pack my bags and go somewhere.

Mr. Alexander's goal in this travel/adventure nonfiction is to hike the Three Passes Trek in the Himalayas. He describes his 28-day hike through the mountain range and a brief tour of Kathmandu, Nepal. It is a trip he has wanted to take for a decade, but as he states in the book, "...life sometimes gets in the way of living". There are hilarious depictions of his experiences trying to be a gracious guest to his exceedingly polite hosts: when he consumes questionable food and drink, when he faces physical challenges on the trail and when he must attend to uncomfortable digestive issues.

There is no pretentious prose in this travel tale. Instead it is full of Mr. Alexander's amusing self-deprecation and candid observations. He is an Everyman crossing an item off of his bucket list. He expresses humble appreciation of the spectacular (if dangerous) natural beauty surrounding him on his journey. Many color photographs from the trip add to the enjoyment of the already entertaining story. My favorite photo is the one of the author slumped over a cairn after climbing to the Cho La Pass (it is also used as the cover photo).

My favorite aspect of the book is the depiction of the relationship the author has with his hired guide Subash and Sherpa Nima. It is interesting to read about their expertise throughout the often trying adventure.

People who enjoy funny travel/adventure stories will love The Nepali Flat. They will find themselves laughing out loud as Mr. Alexander relives his month-long journey and describes the antics of some of the other travelers.

Readers offended by profanity or alcohol consumption may not like this book, as they are sprinkled liberally throughout the tale.

The book is a smooth, captivating and enjoyable read with only a handful of grammatical errors. The author's honest thoughtful writing has a way of drawing the reader in and fueling desires to conquer their own bucket list. The vicarious journey helps satisfy the reader until actual travel is possible. I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. Add this to your bookshelf and you will not regret it.

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The Nepali Flat
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Wasif Ahmed · Post by **Wasif Ahmed** » 02 Oct 2016, 05:27

Seems like a good book to lighten up some serious moments. Good job on the review.

e-tasana-williams · Post by **e-tasana-williams** » 02 Oct 2016, 07:06

Thank you! Yes, this book is definitely a good choice if you want some laughs:)

Lauren M · Post by **Lauren M** » 02 Oct 2016, 08:43

Great Review! This book sounds really good. I'll take your advice and add it to my shelf!

bluemel4 · Post by **bluemel4** » 13 Nov 2016, 11:28

Fantastic review! Great job highlighting the writing style and witty observations. This is not my cup of tea but I can see how others will find it a fun read!

mindyg123 · Post by **mindyg123** » 13 Nov 2016, 11:40

What a great review. Congrats to the author on being BOTD!! I love reading both fiction and nonfiction and this non-fiction book looks like it's something right up my alley. I enjoy a good read that has comedy mixed in and can't wait to read this.

AA1495 · Post by **AA1495** » 13 Nov 2016, 11:43

Sounds interesting! I'm glad you enjoyed reading the book! Thank You for the great review!

Sarah_Khan · Post by **Sarah_Khan** » 13 Nov 2016, 11:51

Great review! After reading the sample, I have to agree, this book is funny starting from the very first page

Jories4 · Post by **Jories4** » 13 Nov 2016, 12:19

I'm always up to some laughs, specially in an adventure story. Thanks for your helpful and thorough review.

Strangerthanfiction · Post by **Strangerthanfiction** » 13 Nov 2016, 13:18

Great review. I don't read a lot of non- fiction but after reading your review, I do love a good laugh, I definitely want to try out this book. The way things are going in the world right now, I think a light hearted, fun read is exactly what the doctor ordered. Thanks so much for sharing.

gali · Post by **gali** » 13 Nov 2016, 13:32

I have read the sample and it made me smile as well. I am glad you found the book a "smooth, captivating and enjoyable read".

Great job on the review!

Esies98 · Post by **Esies98** » 13 Nov 2016, 14:01

Who doesnt loves a book that makes you smiles? the book sounds really good and the story fantastic. Added to my shelfs. Thank You"- Simon

Rachel1019 · Post by **Rachel1019** » 13 Nov 2016, 14:21

This sounds like it could be a very interesting read. I enjoy books with humor in them. While I normally prefer fantasy, this could be a good book to read when I feel like going on a real world adventure. Thanks for the review.

Vermont Reviews · Post by **Vermont Reviews** » 13 Nov 2016, 14:37

Great review. I felt the same as I read the preview. The reviews from nearly everyone of the readers were impressed with Gordon Alexander's travel guide to Nepal. Excellent choice for today's book of the day.
Vermont Reviews