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I found out about The Places We Live through the VSL: Web newsletter, and I've had the topic of overcrowding on my mind lately. I blogged about how cities are grappling with its environmental challenges, and I’ve been caught up in the sweeping, largely autobiographical novel Shantaram, in which the narrator—an escaped Australian convict with a tendency to philosophize—winds up living in an illegal yet thriving Mumbai slum.
Are Bendiksen’s photos a close enough look at slum life, or would you consider taking a “poverty tour” on your next trip? We wrote about the trend here and whether it helps or exploits poor communities.
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I just finished reading Shantaram as well, and Roberts' careful, almost loving descriptions of the slum and its residents moved me significantly. He doesn't hide the gritty details of poverty-stricken slum life, but does not horrify the reader either. Instead, he states the facts as he experiences them, and goes on to paint portraits of his slum neighbors so that you feel as if you are their friend too. I enjoyed this book so much that I am planning a trip to India this summer, and though it is long, I recommend it to anyone interested in the subcontinent. Also, if you check out his website, it says that he is working on a sequel, so I can't wait for that!
Posted By Choey on October 24, 2008, 3:30 PM
Realy good work cheers mate!
Posted By tanie odżywki on February 17, 2011, 3:26 PM