At the Corner of Fact & Fancy

In this volume of eclectic essays, author and freelance journalist Kolatch (Is the Moon in China Just as Round?) addresses a range of topics with a light touch and a critical eye. A Ph.D. in Chinese Studies, Kolatch writes seriously and studiously on politics, religion and conflict without divisiveness, and his reflections on domestic pursuits-social graces and part-time country living among them-are a treat. Take, for example, ""Christmas Card Relationships,"" about the unique satisfaction of the holiday letter-exchange Kolatch has with a Swiss couple (of ""standing invitations"" never acted upon: ""Perhaps this is for the best""); or ""Approved House Gifts,"" which offers a tongue-in-cheek diagram outlining the proper present to offer a host, depending on the time of day, duration of visit and the guest's yearly income (including a ""surcharge for departure after 11:00 p.m.""). He doesn't fail to include dispatches, often with incisive historical background, from his travels in China, Japan, the Balkans and the world of high finance; his opening section on the Gaza Strip is especially enlightening. Kolatch's flawless skills of observation and guileless reporting, combined with a gentle wit, make for highly entertaining journalism, no matter which corner of the globe he happens to land.