getting used to particularly for Mark for whom with time on his hands things look pretty dismal. The arrival of Mala, the Managing Director of the proposed office, brings salvation and Mark is drafted into the team. The relief of this fillip is short lived as they soon fall foul of the capricious, empire building Mala who time and again demands the impossible against insuperable odds.

With the help of the omnipotent Feroz, the three set about the creation of the office in anticipation of further recruits. Outside the office the narrative charts the couple's progress in establishing their home life. Exploring that strange world of the expatriate abroad attempting to strike a balance between building a 'Western' lifestyle behind closed doors without compromising their role within the local office they are striving to create.

It is not a smooth passage. Blighted by a lethargic, bureaucratic environment which feeds on tea, and 'baksheesh' everyday, has its frustrations. This coupled with pressures being exerted from within the business as it develops constantly brings them close to breaking point in a constant love-hate relationship with the country.

The narrative charts a fascinating and engrossing voyage of discovery. Through all the adversity the author's look at the country is both critical and sympathetic, any exasperation accompanied by a willingness to see people as individuals and swallow any distaste one might feel towards practices of which one disapproves, over and above the necessity to get along.

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews
A must read for would-be expatriates!, July 26, 2000

An absolute must read for any expatriate, particularly those (un?)fortunate enough to be sent to a lesser developed country. The author describes in humorous detail his experience in being posted, together with his wife-to-be, to Bangladesh. From the bizarre practices of the locals to the booze-gathering expertise of the expatriate community, the story unfolds with humour while creating an inevitable respect for any individual or couple dropped in a situation which essentially sends them back in time. Despite the clash of cultures, the author and the locals with whom he works develop an emotional attachment, possibly bewildering to both sides. An excellent read.