The Beach - Alex Garland

Alex Garland wrote 'The Beach' and was hugely successful in doing so. The film has come along, added alien plot-lines, and somewhat destroyed the superb narrative. If you haven't already seen the much-hyped film, please read the novel first. It is a stunning depiction of Thailand and very true to the country (having been there recently myself). He illustrates each character so beautifully in the novel, where as the film ignores and almost distances the audience from the character's history and personality. Crucial elements to the novel have been slashed from the film, ruining what makes the narrative so successful in pulling in, and creating a world for, the viewer.
I don't want to give much of the story away for those that have not yet read the novel. But if you take one solo traveller, add some friends he makes along the way and send them on an adventurous and bumpy journey, you'll have the basic idea.
If you've visited Thailand, this novel is a must. You will find yourself reminissing about the places depicted as Garland illustrates the places in vibrant colour and detail. If you haven't been so lucky to visit the country, you will find yourself yearning to do so.
It is published at £5.99 in paperback (much cheaper than buying the video).