Pico Iyer is an author and travel writer known for his insightful and meditative style of writing. Here are some of his most popular books along with a brief synopsis of each:
"Video Night in Kathmandu" (1988) - In this book, Iyer takes the reader on a journey through six Asian countries – Nepal, China, the Philippines, Burma, Thailand, and Indonesia – exploring the impact of Western pop culture on traditional Asian societies.
"The Lady and the Monk" (1991) - This book is a memoir of Iyer's year spent in Kyoto, Japan, where he immerses himself in the culture and falls in love with a local woman. It is a meditation on the clash between Eastern and Western cultures and the search for meaning in life.
"Falling Off the Map" (1993) - In this book, Iyer travels to some of the world's most isolated and little-known places, such as North Korea, Iceland, Bhutan, and Paraguay, in search of the meaning of place and the importance of borders.
"The Global Soul" (2000) - This book is a reflection on the idea of global identity and how people have become increasingly mobile and disconnected from their roots. Iyer explores the concept of home and belonging in a world where people are constantly on the move.
"Sun After Dark: Flights into the Foreign" (2004) - This book is a collection of essays that takes the reader on a journey through places such as Ethiopia, Cuba, and Bhutan. Iyer reflects on the joys and challenges of travel and the ways in which it shapes our understanding of the world and ourselves.
"The Open Road: The Global Journey of the Fourteenth Dalai Lama" (2008) - In this book, Iyer follows the Dalai Lama on his travels around the world, exploring the impact of his teachings and the ways in which he has become a global figure of compassion and peace.
"The Art of Stillness: Adventures in Going Nowhere" (2014) - In this book, Iyer explores the concept of stillness and the importance of slowing down in a world that is constantly on the move. He draws on his own experiences of meditation and retreats, as well as the stories of others who have found peace in stillness.
"A Beginner's Guide to Japan: Observations and Provocations" (2019) - In this book, Iyer offers a personal and insightful guide to Japan, drawing on his own experiences of living in the country for more than 30 years. He explores the complexities of Japanese culture and society, from the rituals of tea ceremonies to the frenetic energy of Tokyo.