Land of the Dawn-Lit Mountains by

Land of the Dawn-lit Mountains is a gripping account of Antonia Bolingbroke-Kent's daring adventure through the remote and mystical state of Arunachal Pradesh in northeastern India. This region, steeped in myth and mystery, has remained largely untouched by outsiders, making it a treasure trove of untold stories and unique cultures. Bolingbroke-Kent's journey takes her through 2,000 miles of rugged terrain, where she encounters shamans, lamas, hunters, and opium farmers, and witnesses little-known stories from the Second World War. The book is not just an adventure narrative but also a poignant exploration of a way of life that is on the brink of change. With vivid descriptions and a keen eye for detail, Bolingbroke-Kent captures the essence of a land where spirits and demons abound, and the gods are appeased by the blood of sacrificed beasts. Her compelling storytelling and compassionate insights make this a transformative journey that will grip readers from the very first page.

Reviews

Outlook Traveller · 2020-11-27

insightful 4.00

The book is praised for its honest and incisive portrayal of Arunachal Pradesh and its people during a time of transition. The reviewer highlights the author's ability to capture the essence of a region in flux.

This review emphasizes the book's strength in providing a vivid and honest portrayal of Arunachal Pradesh. The reviewer appreciates how the author delves into the complexities of a region and its people who are navigating significant changes. The narrative is seen as both insightful and respectful, offering a deep understanding of the cultural and social dynamics at play. The reviewer also notes that the book does not shy away from the challenges and contradictions inherent in such a diverse and rapidly evolving landscape.

Quick quotes

Land of the Dawn Lit Mountains is an honest and incisive portrayal of a land and people in transition, buffeted by winds of change.

The book captures the essence of Arunachal Pradesh beautifully, offering a glimpse into a region that is often overlooked.

Bolingbroke-Kent's writing is both engaging and informative, making it a must-read for anyone interested in travel and cultural studies.

Overland Magazine · 2018-07-20

mature 4.50

The book is noted for its maturity and depth, elevating the author to the ranks of established mainstream authors. The reviewer appreciates the author's growth and the rich narrative she weaves.

This review highlights the maturity and depth of the author's work, suggesting that this book marks a significant step forward in her career. The reviewer feels that the narrative is rich and well-crafted, elevating the author to the level of historically established mainstream writers. The journey described is not just physical but also introspective, offering readers a chance to reflect on their own adventures and experiences. The reviewer particularly enjoys the author's ability to blend personal anecdotes with broader cultural and historical context.

Quick quotes

Somehow intangibly more mature than her earlier works, this lifts Antonia towards the realms of historically established mainstream authors.

The narrative is rich and well-crafted, offering a blend of personal anecdotes and broader cultural context.

The journey described is not just physical but also introspective, inviting readers to reflect on their own adventures.

Sheila Kumar · Sheila Kumar · 2017-11-14

adventurous 4.20

The reviewer finds the book to be an adventurous and suspenseful account of a solo journey through Arunachal Pradesh. The narrative is engaging and full of discoveries.

Sheila Kumar's review focuses on the adventurous and suspenseful nature of the book, highlighting the author's solo journey through Arunachal Pradesh. The reviewer is captivated by the narrative, which is filled with discoveries and a sense of adventure. Sheila Kumar appreciates the author's courage and the vivid descriptions of the landscapes and cultures encountered along the way. The book is seen as a thrilling read that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. The reviewer also notes the author's ability to convey the challenges and triumphs of such a journey, making it a compelling read for adventure enthusiasts.

Quick quotes

Thenceforth starts the most adventurous, suspenseful real journey I have ever witnessed.

A woman in her two-wheeler travelling all the way from... is a testament to her courage and determination.

The narrative is filled with discoveries and a sense of adventure that captivates the reader.

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