This is a story about the vulnerability and durability of an anachronistic system in a chaotically changing modern world. The Balinese-Hindu culture thrived undisturbed for centuries, but modern times threatened to destroy the island's heritage. This book details the struggle in full.

Bali had many traumatic encounters with the West. Spanning all of Balinese history, it sketches the economics, culture and politics of the island. This book is a must for students of Pacific studies or international relations.