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Do Not Wash Hands In Plates: Elephant frenzy, parathas, temples, palaces, monkeys...and the kindness of Indian strangers
Once upon the Land Before Time (or at least before mobile phones), my two best friends and I decided to leave the US from separate locations and meet up in Europe. To everyone's shock, Janine, Jaya and I pulled it off—mostly because we went to Luxembourg, a country so small the odds in favor of chance street encounters were almost 100%, but also because Jaya was carrying the BS, a blue suitcase so enormous it took up approximately a third of the country's square footage and was visible on satellite images. We couldn't possibly miss.
It took over thirty-five years before—in a combination of optimism and failing memories— we recklessly decided to repeat this feat. Hey, we reasoned, now we've got smartphones, better credit ratings, wheeled suitcases, medical insurance, and the ability to drink legally. Just to make it more interesting, this time we chose to meet in India, where the odds against the three of us actually linking up were approximately a bazillion to bupkis.
This is the story of three women eating our way across India in search of adventure, elephants, temples, palaces, western toilets, monkeys, the perfect paratha...and the kindness of Indian strangers.
It took over thirty-five years before—in a combination of optimism and failing memories— we recklessly decided to repeat this feat. Hey, we reasoned, now we've got smartphones, better credit ratings, wheeled suitcases, medical insurance, and the ability to drink legally. Just to make it more interesting, this time we chose to meet in India, where the odds against the three of us actually linking up were approximately a bazillion to bupkis.
This is the story of three women eating our way across India in search of adventure, elephants, temples, palaces, western toilets, monkeys, the perfect paratha...and the kindness of Indian strangers.
100 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2016
9 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
Barb Taub
11 books65 followersBARB TAUB is a humor and urban fantasy author, caffeinated AussieDog wrangler, Yankee expat, and travel junkie. Following her daring daytime escape to England, Barb has lived in a medieval castle, a Hobbit House, and a magic Scottish Isle. You can find her online at https://barbtaub.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 10, 2016
Do Not Wash Hands In Plates is a fun travel memoir. Three women who have been friends for 35 years, since they roomed together at University decided on a re-union in India. Their aim was to eat their way across the country and slip in a temple viewing or two, plus see some of the vibrant colours and culture this continent has to offer.
Luckily one of them is a "local gal" Jaya lives in India, but Barb and Janine were the ultimate western travellers. With Jaya's language knowledge, planning, family members spread across India and her negotiating skills, Barb and Janine were treated to some brilliant hospitality and experiences.
I laughed at the image caused by the over-night train to Delhi, where late booking meant top bunks for the friends. Jaya's constant optimism that "People are Kind in India" was wonderful and opened many doors for the travellers.
They weren't the only tourists on their trip and they were hampered a little when places were closed down for cleaning and redecoration due to the impending visit of President Obama, but it didn't stop them for long.
I really enjoyed the tea museum, elephant trip and the textile museum chapters. Plus who couldn't be excited by all the delightful food they sampled. The book is interspersed with lovely pictures from the trip for the reader to immerse themselves in the people and nation that is India.
Luckily one of them is a "local gal" Jaya lives in India, but Barb and Janine were the ultimate western travellers. With Jaya's language knowledge, planning, family members spread across India and her negotiating skills, Barb and Janine were treated to some brilliant hospitality and experiences.
I laughed at the image caused by the over-night train to Delhi, where late booking meant top bunks for the friends. Jaya's constant optimism that "People are Kind in India" was wonderful and opened many doors for the travellers.
They weren't the only tourists on their trip and they were hampered a little when places were closed down for cleaning and redecoration due to the impending visit of President Obama, but it didn't stop them for long.
I really enjoyed the tea museum, elephant trip and the textile museum chapters. Plus who couldn't be excited by all the delightful food they sampled. The book is interspersed with lovely pictures from the trip for the reader to immerse themselves in the people and nation that is India.
October 7, 2018
Too many would-be travel writers - especially those writing about India - make the gigantic mistake of trying to be William Dalrymple and filling the pages with too much detail and too much historical stuff they've just recycled out of guide books. Barb Taub doesn't. In fact there's almost nothing 'guide-bookish' about this very short book at all.
The other mistake people make is trying to be TOO original - to walk across the country on their hands with a meerkat in their pocket, to only eat food that starts with 'B' or to attempt a journey only with sign-language. Barb doesn't do that either; she and her friends stay in 'nice' hotels and with her friend's fabulous family. No roughing it, just nice places, nice people and lots of cheap prescription drugs.
It took me considerably less than an hour to fly through 'Do Not Wash Hands in Plates ' - which I have to say is a pretty underwhelming title.
What I enjoyed was the feel of reading somebody's Christmas 'round robin' letter - a quick jaunt around her holiday filled with plenty of witty comments and observations. It's not a spectacularly interesting travel experience, it's very superficial and plenty of opportunities to 'expand' go entirely untaken, but if you're happy for a quick read to reassure you before you go to India, or to remind you of your last trip, it's a quick, fun opportunity. Or if you're behind on your Goodreads challenge, it's a good one to get you another book towards your target.
The photos are utterly wasted when reading on Kindle - far too small to actually see or sometimes understand. They needed to be formatted so they'd expand when clicked.
The other mistake people make is trying to be TOO original - to walk across the country on their hands with a meerkat in their pocket, to only eat food that starts with 'B' or to attempt a journey only with sign-language. Barb doesn't do that either; she and her friends stay in 'nice' hotels and with her friend's fabulous family. No roughing it, just nice places, nice people and lots of cheap prescription drugs.
It took me considerably less than an hour to fly through 'Do Not Wash Hands in Plates ' - which I have to say is a pretty underwhelming title.
What I enjoyed was the feel of reading somebody's Christmas 'round robin' letter - a quick jaunt around her holiday filled with plenty of witty comments and observations. It's not a spectacularly interesting travel experience, it's very superficial and plenty of opportunities to 'expand' go entirely untaken, but if you're happy for a quick read to reassure you before you go to India, or to remind you of your last trip, it's a quick, fun opportunity. Or if you're behind on your Goodreads challenge, it's a good one to get you another book towards your target.
The photos are utterly wasted when reading on Kindle - far too small to actually see or sometimes understand. They needed to be formatted so they'd expand when clicked.
May 20, 2021
This slim volume was a real bargain. I bought the Kindle version for 99p and it’s repaid that price many times over in its entertainment value.
Do Not Wash Hands in Plates is an account of the travels of three women who first met as students in Chicago several decades ago. Jaya and Janine provided the photographs, and Barb Taub provided the sparkling commentary.
This isn’t a travelogue, although it does contain fascinating facts about the places the three friends visited in India. Jaya, who lives in India and has plenty of hospitable relatives there, served as a guide and mentor – although co-reveller might be a more accurate term.
This is a book that captures the atmospheres and flavours (especially the flavours!) of the places they went to and links their experiences with hilarious anecdotes and throwaway dry comments. It’s a delightful and affectionate account of the people, the sites, the monuments…and the food.
I’m still smiling about some of the stories as I write this.
If you’re looking for something to raise your spirits, give this little gem a go!
Do Not Wash Hands in Plates is an account of the travels of three women who first met as students in Chicago several decades ago. Jaya and Janine provided the photographs, and Barb Taub provided the sparkling commentary.
This isn’t a travelogue, although it does contain fascinating facts about the places the three friends visited in India. Jaya, who lives in India and has plenty of hospitable relatives there, served as a guide and mentor – although co-reveller might be a more accurate term.
This is a book that captures the atmospheres and flavours (especially the flavours!) of the places they went to and links their experiences with hilarious anecdotes and throwaway dry comments. It’s a delightful and affectionate account of the people, the sites, the monuments…and the food.
I’m still smiling about some of the stories as I write this.
If you’re looking for something to raise your spirits, give this little gem a go!
January 8, 2016
If you're a fan of Barb Taub's excellent blog you will love this book, and if you've never heard of her until this moment, you'll love it just as much :)
It's short, a very pleasant afternoon's reading, and so funny! I started off highlighting passages for quotes, soon realising I would end up quoting more of the book than I was leaving out. Not many books make me laugh out loud, but this did.
Barb's account of her, Janine and Jaya's Indian adventure (or 'attempt to eat our way across India') certainly brings the parts they visited to glorious technicolour life, but equally (if not more) entertaining are her observations; a couple of mentions of the motorbikes carrying whole families (and their shopping), and the generous hospitality of those they met (often, Jaya's friends and relatives); she was to discover that an invitation to someone's house actually means (quote) "Please let me feed you until you look like a balloon with tiny hand and foot appendages waving weakly". And then there are the parathas... loads of parathas...
There is much food talk ~ Barb's omelette experience: "One bite later, and my tastebuds went from innocent bystanders to drive-by victims of green chilli omelette assault".
The ladies meet up with driver Suresh, who takes them out to Munnar and Kerala, which sounds wonderful. "Janine and I had escaped winter's grip just before Mama Nature barfed blizzards and subzero arctic blasts back in Washington and Scotland. Everyone we knew back home was miserable. Obviously, we needed to take pictures by the pool to make them jealous cheer them up." Here, they visit a tea growing plantation, have a amazing lunch served on banana leaves...later on, Barb comes down with Delhi Belly when she cleans her teeth in water she was assured had been filtered. "By that evening, I realised I didn't have a single bodily orifice that wasn't actively involved in attempting to evict my internal organs."
When Barb was planning the trip, she said she had two goals ~ to see the Taj Mahal, and to see wild elephants. Oh yes, I forgot to tell you about the wild elephants, that bit's great. Then there's the auto-rickshaw, crossing the road in Mumbai ~ look, you'll just have to buy it for yourself!
It's short, a very pleasant afternoon's reading, and so funny! I started off highlighting passages for quotes, soon realising I would end up quoting more of the book than I was leaving out. Not many books make me laugh out loud, but this did.
Barb's account of her, Janine and Jaya's Indian adventure (or 'attempt to eat our way across India') certainly brings the parts they visited to glorious technicolour life, but equally (if not more) entertaining are her observations; a couple of mentions of the motorbikes carrying whole families (and their shopping), and the generous hospitality of those they met (often, Jaya's friends and relatives); she was to discover that an invitation to someone's house actually means (quote) "Please let me feed you until you look like a balloon with tiny hand and foot appendages waving weakly". And then there are the parathas... loads of parathas...
There is much food talk ~ Barb's omelette experience: "One bite later, and my tastebuds went from innocent bystanders to drive-by victims of green chilli omelette assault".
The ladies meet up with driver Suresh, who takes them out to Munnar and Kerala, which sounds wonderful. "Janine and I had escaped winter's grip just before Mama Nature barfed blizzards and subzero arctic blasts back in Washington and Scotland. Everyone we knew back home was miserable. Obviously, we needed to take pictures by the pool to make them jealous cheer them up." Here, they visit a tea growing plantation, have a amazing lunch served on banana leaves...later on, Barb comes down with Delhi Belly when she cleans her teeth in water she was assured had been filtered. "By that evening, I realised I didn't have a single bodily orifice that wasn't actively involved in attempting to evict my internal organs."
When Barb was planning the trip, she said she had two goals ~ to see the Taj Mahal, and to see wild elephants. Oh yes, I forgot to tell you about the wild elephants, that bit's great. Then there's the auto-rickshaw, crossing the road in Mumbai ~ look, you'll just have to buy it for yourself!
July 20, 2016
I received a free digital copy from the author in return for a review. The following is my honest opinion on this book:
Once upon a time, years ago, three best friends Barb, Janine and Jaya decided to leave the US from three separate locations and meet in Europe. Thirty five years later they decided to recreate the feat by all meeting in India from three different locations around the world. After successfully meeting the three of them set of on an amazing Indian adventure filled with elephants, temples and lots and lots of food!
Do Not Wash Hands in Plates is a hilarious travel memoir. Right from the introduction I couldn’t help but laugh and I knew this book would keep me entertained. The book isn’t very long but packs a lot into its pages. Each chapter has a funny title which makes you want to read on. Unlike some travel memoirs that focus more on the places tourists visit, this book is firmly all about the experience the three friends have.
Journeying through India they visit many locations such as the Taj Mahal and there are some lovely pictures of these monuments but it’s not this I really enjoyed reading. What I like most about this book is actually the story of travelling between the different locations and the other things they got up to such as their trip to the marketplace, the interesting rules of queuing in India and the copious amount of food on offer that just has to be eaten!
The book has lots of great pictures with great captions next to them and you even find out where the title of the book comes from. There is nothing offensive in this book, unless you consider an account of Delhi belly as offensive.
Overall I really like this book, the writing style is so easy to read and Barb Taub has you laughing at every turn of the page. The only downside to this book is the short length, I would have gladly read through a travel memoir twice maybe even three times as long! Apart from having me laughing this book has taught me a little about India too and has actually made me want to visit and try parathas! A great read for anyone interested in a funny travel memoir.
Once upon a time, years ago, three best friends Barb, Janine and Jaya decided to leave the US from three separate locations and meet in Europe. Thirty five years later they decided to recreate the feat by all meeting in India from three different locations around the world. After successfully meeting the three of them set of on an amazing Indian adventure filled with elephants, temples and lots and lots of food!
Do Not Wash Hands in Plates is a hilarious travel memoir. Right from the introduction I couldn’t help but laugh and I knew this book would keep me entertained. The book isn’t very long but packs a lot into its pages. Each chapter has a funny title which makes you want to read on. Unlike some travel memoirs that focus more on the places tourists visit, this book is firmly all about the experience the three friends have.
Journeying through India they visit many locations such as the Taj Mahal and there are some lovely pictures of these monuments but it’s not this I really enjoyed reading. What I like most about this book is actually the story of travelling between the different locations and the other things they got up to such as their trip to the marketplace, the interesting rules of queuing in India and the copious amount of food on offer that just has to be eaten!
The book has lots of great pictures with great captions next to them and you even find out where the title of the book comes from. There is nothing offensive in this book, unless you consider an account of Delhi belly as offensive.
Overall I really like this book, the writing style is so easy to read and Barb Taub has you laughing at every turn of the page. The only downside to this book is the short length, I would have gladly read through a travel memoir twice maybe even three times as long! Apart from having me laughing this book has taught me a little about India too and has actually made me want to visit and try parathas! A great read for anyone interested in a funny travel memoir.
January 10, 2016
Barb, Janine and Jaya decided to arrange another get together and chose to meet in India. Barb was travelling from Scotland, Janine from Washington DC and Jaya, who lives in India, would meet them at the airport. A recipe for disaster? But no, they hooked up without too many problems. There follows a hilarious account of an Indian trip of a lifetime, which includes delicious food, wonderful attractions, food, temples, more food, Dehli belly, Indian medicines, lots of food and death-defying driving, to spotlight just a few features. You’ll notice food is the most predominant. As Barb explains ‘I was in India, and it could only mean one thing. Soon it would be time to eat again.’
"After my life stopped flashing before my eyes, I shared my observation that she was moving briskly in the wrong direction. On a freeway. With oncoming traffic.
‘Of course,’ she explained with complete lack of concern. ‘There’s a traffic jam on our side. But don’t worry – that means on our way back we can go on the right side of the road.’ “
Barb’s crisply detailed, informative and witty commentary brings to life the places, people and cuisine sampled during the trip. The food sounded divine, well, most of it anyway. Perhaps I’d have to pass on the omelet that sent Barb’s tastebuds ‘from innocent bystanders to drive by victims of green chili omelet assault’. But I could quite happily eat my way through a plate of parathas. The traffic sounds horrendous and crossing the road is a feat in itself, but taken completely in their stride by the locals. Everything is observed with a humorous slant, and includes some wonderful photography, which all together made this such a pleasure to read.
If you’re familiar with Barb’s fabulous blog you know you’ll be in for a treat, and if you’re unfamiliar do yourself a favour and get this book. It’s a delightful travelogue recounting the highs, and some lows, of a wonderful trip. I think the Taj Mahal and wild elephants would have been my highlights too.
"After my life stopped flashing before my eyes, I shared my observation that she was moving briskly in the wrong direction. On a freeway. With oncoming traffic.
‘Of course,’ she explained with complete lack of concern. ‘There’s a traffic jam on our side. But don’t worry – that means on our way back we can go on the right side of the road.’ “
Barb’s crisply detailed, informative and witty commentary brings to life the places, people and cuisine sampled during the trip. The food sounded divine, well, most of it anyway. Perhaps I’d have to pass on the omelet that sent Barb’s tastebuds ‘from innocent bystanders to drive by victims of green chili omelet assault’. But I could quite happily eat my way through a plate of parathas. The traffic sounds horrendous and crossing the road is a feat in itself, but taken completely in their stride by the locals. Everything is observed with a humorous slant, and includes some wonderful photography, which all together made this such a pleasure to read.
If you’re familiar with Barb’s fabulous blog you know you’ll be in for a treat, and if you’re unfamiliar do yourself a favour and get this book. It’s a delightful travelogue recounting the highs, and some lows, of a wonderful trip. I think the Taj Mahal and wild elephants would have been my highlights too.
January 11, 2016
Do Not Wash Hands In Plates is summarised in the extension to the title: Elephant frenzy, parathas, temples, palaces, monkeys...and the kindness of Indian strangers, and that really is what it’s all about! In a warm witty account, Barb describes her travels around India accompanied by long term friends Janine and Jaya.
With the aid of Jaya’s vast extended family and a variety of fearless drivers, the three companions navigate the horrendous traffic and manage to visit some wonderful locations, despite the visit of the American President constantly causing temples and palaces to be closed. Every sentence is filled with humour and warmth, as Janine and Jaya nurse Barb through Delhi Belly and Indian bureaucracy.
There are so many quotable sentences. As an American living in Britain, Barb has learnt that,
“In the UK rules are inviolate and graven in stone. Rules in India are more like guidelines.”
When in danger of missing their plane, Jaya leads them straight past the long queue to the front,
“In the States people would have stopped us. In the UK we would have at least been speared by laser-focused glares and possibly even aggrieved throat-clearing,”
But as Jaya so often remarked, “In India people are so kind.”
Food is an important part of this book, since hospitality is paramount in India. I confess I had to google to discover the difference between parathas, roti, naan and chapatis and now I am anxious to do a taste test. The exotic, colourful, frenetic places they visited are beguiling but no visit to India could be so entertaining without Barb and her friends accompanying you!
With the aid of Jaya’s vast extended family and a variety of fearless drivers, the three companions navigate the horrendous traffic and manage to visit some wonderful locations, despite the visit of the American President constantly causing temples and palaces to be closed. Every sentence is filled with humour and warmth, as Janine and Jaya nurse Barb through Delhi Belly and Indian bureaucracy.
There are so many quotable sentences. As an American living in Britain, Barb has learnt that,
“In the UK rules are inviolate and graven in stone. Rules in India are more like guidelines.”
When in danger of missing their plane, Jaya leads them straight past the long queue to the front,
“In the States people would have stopped us. In the UK we would have at least been speared by laser-focused glares and possibly even aggrieved throat-clearing,”
But as Jaya so often remarked, “In India people are so kind.”
Food is an important part of this book, since hospitality is paramount in India. I confess I had to google to discover the difference between parathas, roti, naan and chapatis and now I am anxious to do a taste test. The exotic, colourful, frenetic places they visited are beguiling but no visit to India could be so entertaining without Barb and her friends accompanying you!
October 22, 2016
The ebook revolution has really transformed my reading habits. With more reasonably priced books available and a wealth of online book sites it's so much easier to find little gems like 'Do Not wash Hands In Plates.'
This book has some small illustrations but it's the text that is the attraction; the author has a funny, endearing style that really makes you want to get to know her and her friends much more.
Barb Taub relates the real -life story of a trip to India with two life-long friend. The trio had apparently done this many years before when they met up to tour Europe but this time, with one of the group already living in India they meet again for the grand tour.
This is not an informational travelogue, there are no guides, facts or figures, but rather a very funny account of the ladies as they see some of the sights and very frequently sample the delights of Indian food. It's light, it's fun and a perfect short read in-between other more hefty tomes.
A real delight!
This book has some small illustrations but it's the text that is the attraction; the author has a funny, endearing style that really makes you want to get to know her and her friends much more.
Barb Taub relates the real -life story of a trip to India with two life-long friend. The trio had apparently done this many years before when they met up to tour Europe but this time, with one of the group already living in India they meet again for the grand tour.
This is not an informational travelogue, there are no guides, facts or figures, but rather a very funny account of the ladies as they see some of the sights and very frequently sample the delights of Indian food. It's light, it's fun and a perfect short read in-between other more hefty tomes.
A real delight!
May 28, 2021
It is the first book of the “Your camels are here” series. Somehow I read part-2 (Please don’t ask for extra glasses) before this, leading to a stimulating experience of reading which compelled me to read the first book also. Gladly, I wasn’t disappointed at all reading this hilarious and delightful book.
Jaya, Barb, and Janine plan to meet in India to have an extended sightseeing trip. It starts from TajMahal, going through Delhi, Kerala, and concluding in Mumbai. They stayed and picked heartful menus at Jaya’s infinite relative’s homes. It is true, in India you can have connections in almost all the states. I gather the reason for their delightful experience was the presence of an Indian woman among them; otherwise, they might have stuck in language issues and tourist traps.
As usual, the worst experience every international tourist goes through in India is an upset stomach. Due to differences in food habits, it is common for most of them. Barb also got the same. She survived and overcame the nightmare and went on the journey to have the time of their life. I can relate to their love for Paranthas, camels, and elephants. Unlike Book2, this time, Jaya wasn’t a too aggressive, no-nonsense kind of woman, apparently being mainly among her family.
Few things are repetitive, like the mention of IPS (Indian Pedestal system) in both the books. Either the drivers were the same with different names, or at least their behavior was.
It is a short book with exotic pictures of the trio having loads of fun. Roughly, one can finish it off within an hour. And the hour will be a pleasant and exhilarating experience for the readers. I started the book with similar hope and am glad it went as per the expectation. And yes, Indians are very generous, especially to international travelers, for no particular reason.
Jaya, Barb, and Janine plan to meet in India to have an extended sightseeing trip. It starts from TajMahal, going through Delhi, Kerala, and concluding in Mumbai. They stayed and picked heartful menus at Jaya’s infinite relative’s homes. It is true, in India you can have connections in almost all the states. I gather the reason for their delightful experience was the presence of an Indian woman among them; otherwise, they might have stuck in language issues and tourist traps.
As usual, the worst experience every international tourist goes through in India is an upset stomach. Due to differences in food habits, it is common for most of them. Barb also got the same. She survived and overcame the nightmare and went on the journey to have the time of their life. I can relate to their love for Paranthas, camels, and elephants. Unlike Book2, this time, Jaya wasn’t a too aggressive, no-nonsense kind of woman, apparently being mainly among her family.
Few things are repetitive, like the mention of IPS (Indian Pedestal system) in both the books. Either the drivers were the same with different names, or at least their behavior was.
It is a short book with exotic pictures of the trio having loads of fun. Roughly, one can finish it off within an hour. And the hour will be a pleasant and exhilarating experience for the readers. I started the book with similar hope and am glad it went as per the expectation. And yes, Indians are very generous, especially to international travelers, for no particular reason.
May 30, 2017
What a delicious recount of what was a most memorable trip to India by Barb Taub and her friends. Being an Indian myself, I relished in the thoughts of many a situation that we consider normal, but which, for Taub, would have been most alien!
Saying that, as an British Indian, I have seen far less of my Motherland than Taub and her friends!
Taub's recounts are hilarious, and each page is peppered with the delicacies that they encountered along the way, proving, once and for all, that India is one of the most hospitable countries out there, with an abundance of yummy food at every corner, literally. Parathas...? YUM!"
Reading about how they encountered the driving there (I too travel in a car with my fingers in front of my eyes when we visit family there!) and crossing roads in busy Mumbai (same in Delhi and Ludhiana!) brought back funny memories of past trips.
If you are looking for a quick pick me up, with laughter at every turn, this is your book!
Saying that, as an British Indian, I have seen far less of my Motherland than Taub and her friends!
Taub's recounts are hilarious, and each page is peppered with the delicacies that they encountered along the way, proving, once and for all, that India is one of the most hospitable countries out there, with an abundance of yummy food at every corner, literally. Parathas...? YUM!"
Reading about how they encountered the driving there (I too travel in a car with my fingers in front of my eyes when we visit family there!) and crossing roads in busy Mumbai (same in Delhi and Ludhiana!) brought back funny memories of past trips.
If you are looking for a quick pick me up, with laughter at every turn, this is your book!
February 22, 2019
A trip to India would be wonderful. The places this author describes are awe-inspiring. But, to be honest, it was the writing that left me unable to put this book down. It’s hilarious. The best kind of funny—deadpan. Barb Taub is the kind of person who could make a trip to the dentist sound funny. After I finished reading, I wanted to email her to grab a beer (or chai) and listen to her tell stories. That would just be weird. So I didn’t. But still.
I felt her joy (and pain) as she traveled. Loved hearing how she and her two friends got from here to there, what they ate, and the little conversations only good friends can have. I also enjoyed the tidbits about Indian medicine sprinkled throughout the book.
A unique and humorous travel memoir by a talented and humorous author.
I felt her joy (and pain) as she traveled. Loved hearing how she and her two friends got from here to there, what they ate, and the little conversations only good friends can have. I also enjoyed the tidbits about Indian medicine sprinkled throughout the book.
A unique and humorous travel memoir by a talented and humorous author.
October 7, 2019
I downloaded this book to my Kindle as I follow the author's very amusing blog and I was not disappointed. I have not actually been to India myself, but have heard plenty of tales from visitors and Indians. The colourful and busy country I picture is brought to life here and my only regret is not being able to appreciate the photographs properly on my Kindle or to taste the delicious food. This is neither the holiday of an organised tourist, nor the roughing it of young travellers, but the light hearted tale of three friends getting together again, with one of them wanting to show the others as much of her country as possible.
April 9, 2019
Hilarious!
I laughed, all the way through this book, and read it in one go.
As someone who was also kidnapped, n taken to a carpet shop in Goa, I can totally relate😁
I laughed, all the way through this book, and read it in one go.
As someone who was also kidnapped, n taken to a carpet shop in Goa, I can totally relate😁
September 5, 2019
A Spirited Fun Read
A little sugar and spice read to add to one's first trip to India research.
Written with a great sense of humour.
A little sugar and spice read to add to one's first trip to India research.
Written with a great sense of humour.
June 10, 2020
Disappointing
Very short and brief. Did not capture India for me sadly. Not really any depth. More like a rushed travel diary.
Very short and brief. Did not capture India for me sadly. Not really any depth. More like a rushed travel diary.
April 24, 2016
A fun trip with friends, elephants, food and more food.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
I must confess I’m partial to stories of female friends. We don’t choose our family, but we choose our friends (or are chosen by them) and however different we might appear to be, there’s a synergy that takes place when good friends get together, that makes the time spent apart melt away, and the clock turn back.
In this travelogue, the author recounts the memoir of her trip to India with her two friends, Janine and Jaya, revisiting an experience they shared thirty five years before. Only, this time they’d gone one better, and rather than meeting in Europe, they decided to visit their friend Jaya at home, in India. Obama learnt about this and decided India must be worth a visit too, and at the beginning of their trip, the three friends have to do some interesting manoeuvres to avoid getting caught in the maelstrom the visit has caused. But there are some pluses too (Taj Mahal has never been cleaner).
Barb Taub’s voice is funny, fresh, witty (I love IPS as an Indian travelling guidance system, but I’ll let you discover it by yourself), and she does not take herself, or the experience, too seriously. The reader goes along for the ride and feels one more of the party.
There are no lengthy descriptions or heavy facts enumerated. The book is mostly a collection of impressions, discreet episodes, funny anecdotes, vibrant encounters with people (yes, and some elephants), and food. Lots of food.
It isn’t a book to be read to find advice on how to travel to India (the author’s experience is unique, and the product of very specific circumstances), although if we are to extract any recommendations from her adventures, it would be that it’s handy to travel with friends that know their way around pills and medication. And that if you manage to keep an open mind and forget about rigid schedules you’ll have a hell of a time.
If I had to find any buts with the book, yes, it’s short. Very short, although that perhaps contributes to the feeling of dynamism and effervescence of the reading experience. The author explains the difficulties with including pictures in an e-book and offers a link to have access to the pictures in better quality (and to videos and images not in the book) although in an ideal world readers might like to organise themselves to have access to the pictures as they read the book. (Or perhaps consider a paper copy, although as I haven’t seen one, I can’t comment on it). The other thing I missed was the opportunity of getting to know more about her friends (well, and her!). As I said before, books about female friends are my weakness, and not having read the author’s previous adventures I missed a bit more background.
A great little book for anybody who likes funny anecdotes, comments about food (beware of reading this book if you’re hungry, you might eat it!), hilarious adventures and a great narrator. I hope the three friends start a business organising trips soon!
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
I must confess I’m partial to stories of female friends. We don’t choose our family, but we choose our friends (or are chosen by them) and however different we might appear to be, there’s a synergy that takes place when good friends get together, that makes the time spent apart melt away, and the clock turn back.
In this travelogue, the author recounts the memoir of her trip to India with her two friends, Janine and Jaya, revisiting an experience they shared thirty five years before. Only, this time they’d gone one better, and rather than meeting in Europe, they decided to visit their friend Jaya at home, in India. Obama learnt about this and decided India must be worth a visit too, and at the beginning of their trip, the three friends have to do some interesting manoeuvres to avoid getting caught in the maelstrom the visit has caused. But there are some pluses too (Taj Mahal has never been cleaner).
Barb Taub’s voice is funny, fresh, witty (I love IPS as an Indian travelling guidance system, but I’ll let you discover it by yourself), and she does not take herself, or the experience, too seriously. The reader goes along for the ride and feels one more of the party.
There are no lengthy descriptions or heavy facts enumerated. The book is mostly a collection of impressions, discreet episodes, funny anecdotes, vibrant encounters with people (yes, and some elephants), and food. Lots of food.
It isn’t a book to be read to find advice on how to travel to India (the author’s experience is unique, and the product of very specific circumstances), although if we are to extract any recommendations from her adventures, it would be that it’s handy to travel with friends that know their way around pills and medication. And that if you manage to keep an open mind and forget about rigid schedules you’ll have a hell of a time.
If I had to find any buts with the book, yes, it’s short. Very short, although that perhaps contributes to the feeling of dynamism and effervescence of the reading experience. The author explains the difficulties with including pictures in an e-book and offers a link to have access to the pictures in better quality (and to videos and images not in the book) although in an ideal world readers might like to organise themselves to have access to the pictures as they read the book. (Or perhaps consider a paper copy, although as I haven’t seen one, I can’t comment on it). The other thing I missed was the opportunity of getting to know more about her friends (well, and her!). As I said before, books about female friends are my weakness, and not having read the author’s previous adventures I missed a bit more background.
A great little book for anybody who likes funny anecdotes, comments about food (beware of reading this book if you’re hungry, you might eat it!), hilarious adventures and a great narrator. I hope the three friends start a business organising trips soon!
April 24, 2016
A fun trip with friends, elephants, food and more food.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
I must confess I’m partial to stories of female friends. We don’t choose our family, but we choose our friends (or are chosen by them) and however different we might appear to be, there’s a synergy that takes place when good friends get together, that makes the time spent apart melt away, and the clock turn back.
In this travelogue, the author recounts the memoir of her trip to India with her two friends, Janine and Jaya, revisiting an experience they shared thirty five years before. Only, this time they’d gone one better, and rather than meeting in Europe, they decided to visit their friend Jaya at home, in India. Obama learnt about this and decided India must be worth a visit too, and at the beginning of their trip, the three friends have to do some interesting manoeuvres to avoid getting caught in the maelstrom the visit has caused. But there are some pluses too (Taj Mahal has never been cleaner).
Barb Taub’s voice is funny, fresh, witty (I love IPS as an Indian travelling guidance system, but I’ll let you discover it by yourself), and she does not take herself, or the experience, too seriously. The reader goes along for the ride and feels one more of the party.
There are no lengthy descriptions or heavy facts enumerated. The book is mostly a collection of impressions, discreet episodes, funny anecdotes, vibrant encounters with people (yes, and some elephants), and food. Lots of food.
It isn’t a book to be read to find advice on how to travel to India (the author’s experience is unique, and the product of very specific circumstances), although if we are to extract any recommendations from her adventures, it would be that it’s handy to travel with friends that know their way around pills and medication. And that if you manage to keep an open mind and forget about rigid schedules you’ll have a hell of a time.
If I had to find any buts with the book, yes, it’s short. Very short, although that perhaps contributes to the feeling of dynamism and effervescence of the reading experience. The author explains the difficulties with including pictures in an e-book and offers a link to have access to the pictures in better quality (and to videos and images not in the book) although in an ideal world readers might like to organise themselves to have access to the pictures as they read the book. (Or perhaps consider a paper copy, although as I haven’t seen one, I can’t comment on it). The other thing I missed was the opportunity of getting to know more about her friends (well, and her!). As I said before, books about female friends are my weakness, and not having read the author’s previous adventures I missed a bit more background.
A great little book for anybody who likes funny anecdotes, comments about food (beware of reading this book if you’re hungry, you might eat it!), hilarious adventures and a great narrator. I hope the three friends start a business organising trips soon!
I'd give this book 4 and a half stars
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
I must confess I’m partial to stories of female friends. We don’t choose our family, but we choose our friends (or are chosen by them) and however different we might appear to be, there’s a synergy that takes place when good friends get together, that makes the time spent apart melt away, and the clock turn back.
In this travelogue, the author recounts the memoir of her trip to India with her two friends, Janine and Jaya, revisiting an experience they shared thirty five years before. Only, this time they’d gone one better, and rather than meeting in Europe, they decided to visit their friend Jaya at home, in India. Obama learnt about this and decided India must be worth a visit too, and at the beginning of their trip, the three friends have to do some interesting manoeuvres to avoid getting caught in the maelstrom the visit has caused. But there are some pluses too (Taj Mahal has never been cleaner).
Barb Taub’s voice is funny, fresh, witty (I love IPS as an Indian travelling guidance system, but I’ll let you discover it by yourself), and she does not take herself, or the experience, too seriously. The reader goes along for the ride and feels one more of the party.
There are no lengthy descriptions or heavy facts enumerated. The book is mostly a collection of impressions, discreet episodes, funny anecdotes, vibrant encounters with people (yes, and some elephants), and food. Lots of food.
It isn’t a book to be read to find advice on how to travel to India (the author’s experience is unique, and the product of very specific circumstances), although if we are to extract any recommendations from her adventures, it would be that it’s handy to travel with friends that know their way around pills and medication. And that if you manage to keep an open mind and forget about rigid schedules you’ll have a hell of a time.
If I had to find any buts with the book, yes, it’s short. Very short, although that perhaps contributes to the feeling of dynamism and effervescence of the reading experience. The author explains the difficulties with including pictures in an e-book and offers a link to have access to the pictures in better quality (and to videos and images not in the book) although in an ideal world readers might like to organise themselves to have access to the pictures as they read the book. (Or perhaps consider a paper copy, although as I haven’t seen one, I can’t comment on it). The other thing I missed was the opportunity of getting to know more about her friends (well, and her!). As I said before, books about female friends are my weakness, and not having read the author’s previous adventures I missed a bit more background.
A great little book for anybody who likes funny anecdotes, comments about food (beware of reading this book if you’re hungry, you might eat it!), hilarious adventures and a great narrator. I hope the three friends start a business organising trips soon!
I'd give this book 4 and a half stars
August 28, 2016
Busy moms, whether you prefer fiction or non-fiction, Do Not Wash Hands in Plates is a delightful, and quick, read. The adventures of three middle-aged women in a country like India, with a culture and traditions that are very foreign to this (and perhaps many) Westerners are both enlightening and entertaining. Through the course of their travels they interact with dozens of locals, from tour guides to extended family of Jaya, chefs to auto-rickshaw drivers and vendors, providing fodder for many of the funny stories included in this book.
The chapters are short, stories from each leg of the journey concise, but not without a careful retelling that maintains the humor of the experience. Could the writing be stronger, to make the stories pop? Probably. But Do Not Wash Hands in Plates, is a light and easy read.
How is the photography? There are beautiful photos included in collages at the end of the chapters, until chapter nine, where an occasional image is in with the text. I am not a regular non-fiction travel reader, so I do not know if this is typical. What I do know is when I hit chapter nine and found some pictures mixed in with the stories, I liked that layout better. The collages are cute and very well organized, but it means the images are smaller and combined with those relevant to other stories in the same chapter. This resulted in some page “flipping” to match them up. The only real disappointment I had in reading Do Not Wash Hands in Plates was that with all the great stories of this trip, the one that inspired the title (which I love!) had relatively little explanation.
All-in-all, Do Not Wash Hands in Plates is a book I definitely recommend for any busy mom (or dad). Ms. Taub has a light touch in her writing, which allowed the humorous moments to shine. She also teaches valuable lessons! I might do well driving in India, but would probably struggle in terms of food and drink (I’m not a curry or chai lover). Never drink the water (plus keep your mouth shut in shower and use bottled water for tooth brushing). The trio of Barb, Jaya and Janine have had amazing and hilarious adventures and their retelling here makes for an enjoyable read. Travel vicariously through them, or be inspired by them and go on some adventures of your own!
Whatever you chose, happy trails and may the good books be plentiful!
The chapters are short, stories from each leg of the journey concise, but not without a careful retelling that maintains the humor of the experience. Could the writing be stronger, to make the stories pop? Probably. But Do Not Wash Hands in Plates, is a light and easy read.
How is the photography? There are beautiful photos included in collages at the end of the chapters, until chapter nine, where an occasional image is in with the text. I am not a regular non-fiction travel reader, so I do not know if this is typical. What I do know is when I hit chapter nine and found some pictures mixed in with the stories, I liked that layout better. The collages are cute and very well organized, but it means the images are smaller and combined with those relevant to other stories in the same chapter. This resulted in some page “flipping” to match them up. The only real disappointment I had in reading Do Not Wash Hands in Plates was that with all the great stories of this trip, the one that inspired the title (which I love!) had relatively little explanation.
All-in-all, Do Not Wash Hands in Plates is a book I definitely recommend for any busy mom (or dad). Ms. Taub has a light touch in her writing, which allowed the humorous moments to shine. She also teaches valuable lessons! I might do well driving in India, but would probably struggle in terms of food and drink (I’m not a curry or chai lover). Never drink the water (plus keep your mouth shut in shower and use bottled water for tooth brushing). The trio of Barb, Jaya and Janine have had amazing and hilarious adventures and their retelling here makes for an enjoyable read. Travel vicariously through them, or be inspired by them and go on some adventures of your own!
Whatever you chose, happy trails and may the good books be plentiful!
February 26, 2016
Barb Taub is one of the wittiest writers I know, and her latest book – Do Not Wash Hands in Plates – did not disappoint. My smile muscles hurt by the time I finished it.
This is a travelogue with a twist, a repeat adventure of three friends (Americans Barb and Janine and an Indian, Jaya) of one they had taken four decades before. Only this time instead of the relatively small country of Belgium, they chose to meet in India, where Jaya lives. After overcoming as many obstacles as the board game of that name, they managed to find each other at the Ahmedabad Airport without the use of digital devices and spent their first days at Jaya’s house – where their itinerary was “1. Eat. 2. Rest up from eating. 3. Eat more. 4. Go into jetlag coma.”
The first part of their vacation was spent on a train, where they all were relegated to upper bunks. Arriving in Agra, they discovered the Taj Mahal was closed because of President Obama’s visit, but they found some lesser but equally impressive monuments to visit and spent a lot of the time eating. In fact, eating was one of their main forms of entertainment and torture.
The reader is treated to instructions on how to shop in India, to queue, to haggle down the price of a souvenir, to navigate without a GPS (ask anyone), and to cross a road safely.
The three friends found Delhi and Kerala were similarly closed, but a steam bath, a massage, and a swim were viable substitutes. Plus more food. Along their tour, they saw dancing, monkeys, elephants with parking places, and Barb got Delhi belly. She ended up in a hospital, where she was given sufficient pharmaceuticals to recover and begin eating again.
The book is described as the story of three women eating their way across India in search of adventure, elephants, temples, palaces, western toilets, monkeys, the perfect paratha...and find the kindness of Indian strangers. Perfect!
I highly recommend it.
This is a travelogue with a twist, a repeat adventure of three friends (Americans Barb and Janine and an Indian, Jaya) of one they had taken four decades before. Only this time instead of the relatively small country of Belgium, they chose to meet in India, where Jaya lives. After overcoming as many obstacles as the board game of that name, they managed to find each other at the Ahmedabad Airport without the use of digital devices and spent their first days at Jaya’s house – where their itinerary was “1. Eat. 2. Rest up from eating. 3. Eat more. 4. Go into jetlag coma.”
The first part of their vacation was spent on a train, where they all were relegated to upper bunks. Arriving in Agra, they discovered the Taj Mahal was closed because of President Obama’s visit, but they found some lesser but equally impressive monuments to visit and spent a lot of the time eating. In fact, eating was one of their main forms of entertainment and torture.
The reader is treated to instructions on how to shop in India, to queue, to haggle down the price of a souvenir, to navigate without a GPS (ask anyone), and to cross a road safely.
The three friends found Delhi and Kerala were similarly closed, but a steam bath, a massage, and a swim were viable substitutes. Plus more food. Along their tour, they saw dancing, monkeys, elephants with parking places, and Barb got Delhi belly. She ended up in a hospital, where she was given sufficient pharmaceuticals to recover and begin eating again.
The book is described as the story of three women eating their way across India in search of adventure, elephants, temples, palaces, western toilets, monkeys, the perfect paratha...and find the kindness of Indian strangers. Perfect!
I highly recommend it.
March 8, 2016
Right. First of all, I don't read non-fiction as a general rule. I'm a 100% fiction, 90% fantasy fan all the way ... but this book blew all of my reservations out of the water.
I've followed Barb's blog for over two years now, and I always get a good chuckle from her posts. I read One Way Fare (read the review here) back in 2014 and thoroughly enjoyed it. So when she announced a humorous travel memoir about her recent trip to India, I decided it was a good opportunity to broaden my reading horizons a bit.
I have no regrets. Well, except for reading that chapter she recommended those with weak stomachs avoid ... I laughed so hard my stomach still hurts.
In addition to the delightful tongue-in-cheek humor, Barb paints a fantastic picture of India: the food, the sights, the food, the people, the food ... oh, and did I mention that there are pictures of food, as well as a few other random shots? Gorgeous full-color photo collages, even.
Honestly, the only way I could possibly enjoy this book more is if I had a rudimentary grasp of where exactly all these fascinating places are in relation to a map. In fact, there's a very strong possibility that I might be rereading the book with a map of India open on my laptop so I can follow the journey properly ... a huge feat considering my customary aversion to 'real life'.
This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys a good laugh. Those who want to know a bit more about India (particularly from a sassy female tourist point-of-view) will also find this book rewarding. I even think the average Joe will enjoy it simply for the plethora of pictures. One tip I'd share though: the eBook starts at Chapter One ... but don't forget to read the Introduction!
After all, I'd hate for you to miss the importance of horn sonar ...
I've followed Barb's blog for over two years now, and I always get a good chuckle from her posts. I read One Way Fare (read the review here) back in 2014 and thoroughly enjoyed it. So when she announced a humorous travel memoir about her recent trip to India, I decided it was a good opportunity to broaden my reading horizons a bit.
I have no regrets. Well, except for reading that chapter she recommended those with weak stomachs avoid ... I laughed so hard my stomach still hurts.
In addition to the delightful tongue-in-cheek humor, Barb paints a fantastic picture of India: the food, the sights, the food, the people, the food ... oh, and did I mention that there are pictures of food, as well as a few other random shots? Gorgeous full-color photo collages, even.
Honestly, the only way I could possibly enjoy this book more is if I had a rudimentary grasp of where exactly all these fascinating places are in relation to a map. In fact, there's a very strong possibility that I might be rereading the book with a map of India open on my laptop so I can follow the journey properly ... a huge feat considering my customary aversion to 'real life'.
This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys a good laugh. Those who want to know a bit more about India (particularly from a sassy female tourist point-of-view) will also find this book rewarding. I even think the average Joe will enjoy it simply for the plethora of pictures. One tip I'd share though: the eBook starts at Chapter One ... but don't forget to read the Introduction!
After all, I'd hate for you to miss the importance of horn sonar ...
March 8, 2016
Do Not Wash Hands In Plates is the humorous tale of three women eating their way across India in search of adventure, elephants, temples, palaces, western toilets, monkeys, the perfect paratha…and the kindness of Indian strangers. ‘Humorous’ comes nowhere near to doing this book justice though as it is laugh out loud funny – and I rarely laugh at books, however hilarious they are meant to be.
In this case however with the sparkling wit of Barb Taub springing off pages often vividly decorated with wonderful photographs from Jayalakshmi Ayyer and Janine Smith there are so many funny moments it would be difficult to pick one out here. Even on the dark days when Barb became ill she manages to keep us smiling through her pain.
On reading this book you will find out why Delhi is closed today and the Taj Mahal is very clean. You’ll learn about the joys of Indian pharmaceuticals and tastebud assaults. The amount of food consumed is staggering, and by all accounts staggeringly delicious. I don’t know what parathas are but I know I want them. The temples are incredible, the traffic terrifying and the wildlife, well I’ll leave you to find that out for yourselves though I will tell you there are elephants!
But what comes across most is the warmth of India. When you read this book you will see the beauty of the palette of ochre hues that are the background. Feel the heat that is added by the vivid array of reds, pinks and oranges that adorn a country that truly does seem to be filled with the kindness of Indian strangers. You’ll want to visit; I know I do!
In this case however with the sparkling wit of Barb Taub springing off pages often vividly decorated with wonderful photographs from Jayalakshmi Ayyer and Janine Smith there are so many funny moments it would be difficult to pick one out here. Even on the dark days when Barb became ill she manages to keep us smiling through her pain.
On reading this book you will find out why Delhi is closed today and the Taj Mahal is very clean. You’ll learn about the joys of Indian pharmaceuticals and tastebud assaults. The amount of food consumed is staggering, and by all accounts staggeringly delicious. I don’t know what parathas are but I know I want them. The temples are incredible, the traffic terrifying and the wildlife, well I’ll leave you to find that out for yourselves though I will tell you there are elephants!
But what comes across most is the warmth of India. When you read this book you will see the beauty of the palette of ochre hues that are the background. Feel the heat that is added by the vivid array of reds, pinks and oranges that adorn a country that truly does seem to be filled with the kindness of Indian strangers. You’ll want to visit; I know I do!
January 19, 2016
Barb, Janine and Jaya have been friends for more than thirty years. They once managed to successfully meet up in a different continent and decided to try this again with a visit to India.
Barb (originally from the US) travels in from Scotland, Janine flies from Washington, and Jaya, who lives in India meets them at the airport. And so begins a fabulous trip, documented brilliantly in this very funny memoir.
If you read Barb’s blog (and I strongly recommend that you do) you will be expecting sharp, witty writing, clever observations and the feeling that you're listening to an old friend telling you about her travels. And that is exactly what you get. Barb tells it like it is and paints a realistic, vibrant picture of a colourful country.
Much of the trip seems to have been spent eating and the descriptions of the food and hospitality are wonderful to read. Wildlife, culture, architecture and people are all beautifully and fondly depicted but this is far from a romanticised view. Horrendously dangerous driving is par for the course and Barb’s very funny account (sorry Barb!) of her unfortunate case of ‘Delhi belly’ tells of a rather rather worrying ease of access to strong medication!
This is a lovely way to spend an afternoon with your feet up, immersing yourself into the colours, smells and sights of a fascinating place, but do be warned, you might just find yourself hankering after a visit yourself!
Barb (originally from the US) travels in from Scotland, Janine flies from Washington, and Jaya, who lives in India meets them at the airport. And so begins a fabulous trip, documented brilliantly in this very funny memoir.
If you read Barb’s blog (and I strongly recommend that you do) you will be expecting sharp, witty writing, clever observations and the feeling that you're listening to an old friend telling you about her travels. And that is exactly what you get. Barb tells it like it is and paints a realistic, vibrant picture of a colourful country.
Much of the trip seems to have been spent eating and the descriptions of the food and hospitality are wonderful to read. Wildlife, culture, architecture and people are all beautifully and fondly depicted but this is far from a romanticised view. Horrendously dangerous driving is par for the course and Barb’s very funny account (sorry Barb!) of her unfortunate case of ‘Delhi belly’ tells of a rather rather worrying ease of access to strong medication!
This is a lovely way to spend an afternoon with your feet up, immersing yourself into the colours, smells and sights of a fascinating place, but do be warned, you might just find yourself hankering after a visit yourself!
January 20, 2016
If Barb Taub and I lived somewhat close to each other (say if, for instance, there was something less than an ocean between us), I like to imagine that when Barb returned from her trip to India I would have lured her to my house with promises of cake and whiskey. We’d sit down someplace comfy, whiskey in hand and she would regale us with her travels through India.
In real life I’d likely spend the night in tears.
Tears of laughter.
The kind of laughter that lasts for so long that it gets hard to breathe and is possibly a bit painful. Of course, that’d be in real life.
Please, read Do Not Wash Hands In Plates, but remember, you are not talking with Barb in real life. It may feel as if you are but when you “share” that whiskey, don’t forget that you are reading from a sensitive electronic device that will not like it if your laughter causes you to choke on your drink and spew it across the “page.” (Oh the things I do in the name of book reviewing… And yes, the Kindle survived!)
Would I recommend it?
It’s a hilariously well written quick read of a travel memoir. It’s not quite like sharing a bit of cake with Barb but it’s as close as most of us are going to get!
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
In real life I’d likely spend the night in tears.
Tears of laughter.
The kind of laughter that lasts for so long that it gets hard to breathe and is possibly a bit painful. Of course, that’d be in real life.
Please, read Do Not Wash Hands In Plates, but remember, you are not talking with Barb in real life. It may feel as if you are but when you “share” that whiskey, don’t forget that you are reading from a sensitive electronic device that will not like it if your laughter causes you to choke on your drink and spew it across the “page.” (Oh the things I do in the name of book reviewing… And yes, the Kindle survived!)
Would I recommend it?
It’s a hilariously well written quick read of a travel memoir. It’s not quite like sharing a bit of cake with Barb but it’s as close as most of us are going to get!
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
February 5, 2016
Friendship + photography + travel = an irresistible combination for me! I have to admit I'm an avid subscriber to Barb Taub's informative and insightful, and always hilarious, blog. When I read she (along with her BFFs) was publishing a memoir about their trip to India, I couldn't wait to download it. Needless to say, I laughed my way through this quick, entertaining read ... even the painful moments (e.g. Delhi Belly ... sorry, Barb ... and death-defying driving) were hilarious and that takes a certain talent. Colors, smells, tastes, sights and sounds ... and the unending hospitality of the people of India ... all come alive. The reader is offered an insightful look at countryside, cities, cuisine and cultural proclivities and the photography is outstanding. Reading this tasty travel memoir is an all-encompassing experience. However, as much as I enjoyed all that, what I loved most was the friendship shared by Barb, Jaya and Janine. After 35 years, their bond is as strong as ever. That is a treasure to experience in itself!
February 14, 2016
Do Not Wash Hands in Plates is a highly entertaining read about a trip to India by three long time friends. Barb Taub brings the trip to life for us, with humour and energy. I really enjoy reading about people's travel adventures, and what I want to hear about is their experience, I don't want to feel I'm reading a travel guide, or a school text book, with too much information about the history/geography of the area etc, and I'm happy to say, Barb Taub gets the balance exactly right; there is enough description of the places she visits to set the scene and pique our interest, but the main focus is on how she and her friends experienced it. The food and kindness of the people are strong themes in the book, and made me want to dive into the pages and join them, instead however, as soon as I finished the book I immediately searched online for a good paratha recipe, which was the next best thing.
Whether or not you have visited India (I haven't), you're sure to enjoy joining Barb and her friends on their travels as they take us with them on their Indian adventure.
Whether or not you have visited India (I haven't), you're sure to enjoy joining Barb and her friends on their travels as they take us with them on their Indian adventure.
July 23, 2016
The title and colourful cover design are an instant attraction and offer an insight of what to expect when you pick up a copy of Do Not Wash Hand in Plates. Many years ago, three friends left America to explore the delights of Europe – having survived to tell the tale (and with a few years of life experience under their belts) they decided to take another trip. This delightful book is a quick, humorous account of Barb’s trip across India with her best friends, Jaya Ayyer and Janine Smith.
Told in the same voice as Barb’s hilarious blog, Writing and Coffee. Especially Coffee, this romp through India paints a vivid picture of a beautiful culture, wondrous temples, and intimate relationships with a toilet bowl!
You’ll chuckle your way through this title with its in-depth descriptions, action photographs, and passion for parathas, and you’ll be booking your flight to India before the end of chapter eight.
Told in the same voice as Barb’s hilarious blog, Writing and Coffee. Especially Coffee, this romp through India paints a vivid picture of a beautiful culture, wondrous temples, and intimate relationships with a toilet bowl!
You’ll chuckle your way through this title with its in-depth descriptions, action photographs, and passion for parathas, and you’ll be booking your flight to India before the end of chapter eight.
August 2, 2016
This humorous travelogue takes you on an unforgettable journey.
With Do Not Wash Hands In Plates: Elephant frenzy, parathas, temples, palaces, monkeys...and the kindness of Indian strangers, Barb Taub has created an unforgettable travelogue. It is a highly enjoyable and hilarious read, engaging the readers from the first to the last pages. Barb Taub did not just write this story, she drew me in so that I became an invisible co-traveller. The situations are often pretty funny, had me chuckling and even laughing out loud while reading. I had a great time reading Do Not Wash Hands In Plates: Elephant frenzy, parathas, temples, palaces, monkeys...and the kindness of Indian strangers. Readers beware: The continuous mention of delicious Indian food may trigger your appetite. ;-)
This is a book for you if you like humorous travelogues.
Highly recommended!
With Do Not Wash Hands In Plates: Elephant frenzy, parathas, temples, palaces, monkeys...and the kindness of Indian strangers, Barb Taub has created an unforgettable travelogue. It is a highly enjoyable and hilarious read, engaging the readers from the first to the last pages. Barb Taub did not just write this story, she drew me in so that I became an invisible co-traveller. The situations are often pretty funny, had me chuckling and even laughing out loud while reading. I had a great time reading Do Not Wash Hands In Plates: Elephant frenzy, parathas, temples, palaces, monkeys...and the kindness of Indian strangers. Readers beware: The continuous mention of delicious Indian food may trigger your appetite. ;-)
This is a book for you if you like humorous travelogues.
Highly recommended!
February 2, 2017
Negatives first. The book isn't something to be used for information. When I started reading, I found it lacking detail, but by the end, had found a couple of factual errors even. Will certainly report those and hopefully they should be corrected.
Having said that, it's a lovely book. I have read a lot of Bill Bryson, but always miss the fact that he has not written about India. Now while Barb is certainly no Bryson in being informed, she is hardly any less when it comes to humour. I have been through some of the places mentioned, and certainly have an idea how Indians behave with tourists, so I did found this book hilarious, and loved the descriptions a lot. Would be willing to read more of her travelogues.
Having said that, it's a lovely book. I have read a lot of Bill Bryson, but always miss the fact that he has not written about India. Now while Barb is certainly no Bryson in being informed, she is hardly any less when it comes to humour. I have been through some of the places mentioned, and certainly have an idea how Indians behave with tourists, so I did found this book hilarious, and loved the descriptions a lot. Would be willing to read more of her travelogues.
January 19, 2016
A charming and witty travelogue on India, this was a short but highly enjoyable read.
The book charts the author's adventures in India with two of her old university friends, and includes some historical information, cultural insights, travel stories and photographs of the sites and food (and the occasional Western toilet).
Narrated with a large dose of humour and an even larger dose of self-deprecation, this is a well-written book that brings the scenes, people and colours alive. Not quite as good as travelling to India oneself, but not far off...
*I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The book charts the author's adventures in India with two of her old university friends, and includes some historical information, cultural insights, travel stories and photographs of the sites and food (and the occasional Western toilet).
Narrated with a large dose of humour and an even larger dose of self-deprecation, this is a well-written book that brings the scenes, people and colours alive. Not quite as good as travelling to India oneself, but not far off...
*I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 9, 2016
Great fun!
I've enjoyed the author's wonderful blog, and the title reflects her humorous outlook on life. When she offered me a free copy in exchange for an honest review, I jumped at the chance.
This travel adventure is a nice quick read, and I always appreciate that. The writing style offers a chuckle on every page, and is laugh out loud funny in every section. This isn't the kind of thing I usually pick up, but faith in the author served me well. I loved this book, and want to read some of her other works now.
I've enjoyed the author's wonderful blog, and the title reflects her humorous outlook on life. When she offered me a free copy in exchange for an honest review, I jumped at the chance.
This travel adventure is a nice quick read, and I always appreciate that. The writing style offers a chuckle on every page, and is laugh out loud funny in every section. This isn't the kind of thing I usually pick up, but faith in the author served me well. I loved this book, and want to read some of her other works now.
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