Ashi Dori Wangmo Wangchuck

Bhutan.

Part memoir, part travelogue, this book by the oldest of the four queens of Bhutan describes not only Wangchuck's life, but the history and contemporary cultures of Bhutan. In addition, she focuses on the difficult-to-attain balance between traditional ways and contemporary life. The road that allows remote villagers to get to market or medical care also brings exodus from the villages and the erosion of cultural values. Wangchuck's descriptions of spirituality were enjoyable and well-written, as were the sections describing her travels and the communities of Bhutan. I would have wished for more about how she felt about marrying the king, and more detail about that period of her life, but it may not be politic or culturally appropriate for her to tell that story.
… (mere)