Travel Tales: Back to Asia

For more Travel Tales, visit my co-hosts at Novel Sounds & Rather Be Reading. And don't forget, you still have time to enter my giveaway and win one of my 2012 all star reads!

Today's post is supposed to be one where I choose my favorite country and share some book titles that feature places in the chosen country, or aspects of their culture. However, because I'm indecisive sometimes, and because of my great love for the continent my family originates from, I've decided to focus this post on Asian culture.

I will be the first to admit that it's decidedly rare to find books I enjoy that include aspects of the various cultures in Asia. The ones that often end up being featured are Japanese and Chinese, with India slowly making its way into the picture. (On a side note, this makes me think about writing a book featuring Filipino culture...) There are some great books out there that highlight Asian culture or make it a part of the story, and I wanted to share a few titles that I've read and loved.

Memoirs of a Geisha

I cannot tell you guys how many times I've read this book - I just know that it's way more than ten. I loved this book so very much because it depicted Japanese culture beautifully. I learned a bit more about geishas, especially what they had to learn and do to hold such a coveted, desirable position. It was fascinating, and completely drew me into the world of Japan. I have yet to review it on the blog, but I may do that when I give it another reread.

Shadows on the Moon (Check out my review!)

I read this book fairly recently, and it didn't surprise me at all that I loved it - after all, it was chock full of references to Japanese culture. It wasn't precisely said to be in Japan, but I thought the language, rituals and even outfits were all very much Japanese in character. The best part about this novel is that there was also an element of fantasy in it.

Eon & Eona (Check out my review!)

This is an amazing duology for quite a few reasons, but the main reason I loved it was because it featured dragons (which is awesome in ANY situation). I love the fact that this book takes many elements from Chinese culture, and that it's incorporated in a way that I found refreshing. Just thinking about it makes me want to read this again! It's a great fantasy series, and I highly recommend it.

Cinder (Check out my review!)

I read this one fairly recently, but I loved it something fierce - going so far as to say that Marissa Meyer deserved all the stars for this novel! It's a very creative retelling of Cinderella, featuring a main character who just so happens to be a cyborg. There's a handsome prince, an evil queen, a great sidekick and a grand ball - and it's only the first book! Elements of Chinese culture are subtly incorporated into this tale.

Tiger's Curse (Check out my review!)

This is the only book that features Indian culture on my list, but I will say that I loved this just as much as the others. It's not only the fact that one of my favorite animals is on the cover, but it's how great the story is! It was magical and different, especially in terms of setting and even character names, and that's what made it stand out for me. I haven't finished the series yet, but you can be sure I will!

And now, here are a couple of titles I have yet to read:

Alternative Alamat: Stories Inspired by Philippine Mythology

Stormdancer

Silver Phoenix

Know any other books that feature any Asian culture? Tell me in the comments!

Don't forget to check out these other amazing TRAVEL TALES posts this week:

Elena shares an interview with Sam from Realm of Fiction!

Magan wrote a love letter to Australian authors.

Author Pam Mingle wrote a guest post - and there's a giveaway!

My giveaway (US AND International) is still open!