Synopses & Reviews
The spirit of tolerance does constant battle with the ghost of Calvin for control of the Dutch psyche. Few Dutch people go to church any more, but they don't need to. Inside every Hollander's head is a little pulpit containing a preacher with a vermanende vinger, a wagging finger.
Xenophobia is an irrational fear of foreigners, probably justified, always understandable.
Xenophobe's Guides - an irreverent look at the beliefs and foibles of nations, almost guaranteed to cure Xenophobia.
Review
"If I were a cabaret artist or stand up comedian, I'd just get up and read these books to the audience as they would bring the house down."
--Het Parool (Holland)
"An enlightened new series, good natured, witty and useful. The Xenophobe's Guides to different nations deserves a real cheer."
--The European
Synopsis
Highlights the unique character and behavior of the nation. Frank, irreverent, funny--almost guaranteed to cure Xenophobia.
About the Author
Rodney Bolt was born in Africa, has an Irish passport, a British driving licence and a Dutch residence permit. Having lived and worked in Greece, in England and in Germany, he has finally come to roost in Amsterdam, where such hybrid creatures pass unnoticed, and are even made to feel at home.
For many years he ran a pub theatre in London, and has worked as a theatre director, English teacher, private tutor, letter-sorter and journalist. Now he makes his living mainly from travel writing, and is failing to fend off the Dutch desire to write novels.
He divides his national affections between the Netherlands and Madeira, just as he hopes one day to divide his domestic arrangements between a canal house and a quinta in the hills. In the meantime he lives in one corner of a large 19th-century house, within walking distance of a street-market, a swimming pool and three excellent museums. He could ask for little more
Table of Contents
Nationalism and Identity
Character
Attitudes and Values
Happy Families
Manners and Behaviour
Leisure and Pleasure
Drinking and Eating
Custom and Tradition
Sense of Humour
Culture
Systems
Culture
Systems
Business and Commerce
Government
Language