Tales from Tanzania: A mostly true story

I'm very taken by Scott's tales. What I find so amazing about his writing are the easy turns from low-brow realities of a budget safari, to actual majestic moments. It's a bit like David Sedaris meets Isak Dinesen. It takes its own gentle swipe at the Abercrombie and Fitch crowd sipping their cocktails at sunset without getting mud on their shoes. And it reminds us that the best part of travel is adapting, laughing, surviving, and replacing our storybook images of exotic places with the real guy next to us on the bus, and, yes, even the full on digestive distress. I can't think of another writer who manages to deliver such unique characters and adventures (these people are real!) - but also maintain just enough of a sense of wonder to make us want to go. I laughed a lot - but also felt very moved seeing the country through his eyes.

Having taken tour group trips within Africa and other places, I could relate to many of Balows' accounts of fellow travelers, ailments, inital (if not exaggerated) excitement at sighting wildlife, local peddlers, malaria drugs, etc. The book had me laughing out loud many times! If you have traveled in such a way, you will love this book!

Balows' keen ear for dialogue and wry perspective make Tales From Tanzania a must read for anyone who's ever (or, for that matter, never) travelled with a group of strangers. A highly entertaining account of the comic human safari.

Whilst travelling across Africa, Scott has a kept one eye on the lions and one eye on his travelling companions. This is less of a truck holiday story than a reflection on the comical misunderstanding between cultures. A must for anyone considering a trip to Africa.

This excellent novel is proof that truth is not only stranger than fiction, it's funnier. As you follow Balows on a budget safari through the wilds of Africa, you manage to feel sorry for his misadventures, while at the same time wishing you were there. This reader definitely hopes he takes us along on his next journey!