Beyond the Vapour Trail, an odd but interesting work, moves backwards and forwards in time and encompasses many genres and styles. These include self-mocking humour, loving emails to his wife, poetic descriptions of scenery, travel advice, analysis of the issues facing aid workers, and clear details of the political background of the places and communities he visits. Pierce cites some horrific stories, but his touch is light. He encourages readers to admire the people he meets and to be awed by their resilience and courage, particularly the children. He loves those he comes across and values their insights into the communities’ problems. Readers will enjoy and learn much from this book.

Although Pierce rarely visits tourist spots, his book will also be useful for those who visit the countries he describes: how to deal with airport delays; the types of food available; culturally appropriate behaviour; and how to behave towards people and animals that wish to kill them.

Pierce writes vividly, but I wish he had included more photographs. He often describes scenes he has photographed: it would have been good to see them.