Rio de Janeiro: Extreme City

Contrary to the previous reviews, I felt like throwing this book out the window throughout the entire read. There were interesting parts, but the chapters are way too long (it felt more like a classical school book where the writers are paid per page/word and therefore fills out every chapter with nonsense). The tiresome language does not help either (a very sleepy translation). Surely there must be better books about Rio than this one. Even if I agree with some parts, it is an utterly depressing read, and it is hence not surprising that the author was ousted from the government if this is how he is in real life. There is no real conclusion, just endless rant.

This book has been translated superbly into a lively, sometimes almost breathless colloquial style. I teach about Rio in geography lessons, but will probably never go there, so depend on written material, news items and videos. This book destroys simple impressions and stereotypes and is almost "unputdownable".

A very enlightening and accessible read. Would recommend as a read to anyone one who wants to gain a better understanding of Rio.

A very interesting book for those who are trying to find out all aspects of its culture. The author is easy to read, and presents whatall tourists have wanted to see when going there, however, he very fairly covers the dark side as well. You will enjoy it.