In this fascinating contemporary photography book, which was eight years in the making, photographer and writer Palazon crafts a highly visual study of Timor-Leste, focusing on the unique beauty of the Southeast Asian country and the contradictions of modern life. In addition to photos, the book contains short written pieces from 60 mostly Western contributors to illuminate aspects of the culture. Simão Barreto’s song “Call the Wind” celebrates the ritual ceremony calling the wind at the time of rice harvest, still guiding the day-to-day life of farming communities today. Anthropologist Sofia Miranda describes how difficult communication and transportation issues between Dili, the center of power, and rural areas, prevent projects from fully materializing and keep the population dependent on government assistance. Each contributor zeroes in on an intriguing facet of Timorese politics, culture, or history, together offering a kaleidoscopic look at the nation. Palazon’s many photographs, taken between 2008 and 2016, provide the most striking and lasting impression of Timor-Leste. Until the Timorese themselves document their culture, Palazon’s work will help readers outside the small country get to know it a little better. Color photos. (BookLife)

This review has been corrected; an earlier version included an incorrect price for the book.