For a century now, Bali has been the subject of a beautiful mythology created by movies and music, but there are few factual accounts of its transformation from besieged peasant colony to booming tourist mecca.

It’s a tale begging to be told: a story of survival in the face of genocide, natural disaster, terrorism, cultural imperialism and corruption on a grand scale. This updated edition includes a new chapter on Jokowi and the Bali 9 executions.

Go behind the smiling face Bali has presented to generations of tourists and expats with Phil Jarratt, award-winning author of over 30 books including Surfing Australia: A Complete History of Surfboard Riding in Australia and That Summer at Boomerang.

‘… page-turning story of treachery, deceit, debauchery and wholesale slaughter, set against the idyllic backdrop of a paradise on earth.’ – David Hill, Chairman, National Geographic Channels US

‘… a far more complex, contradictory and interesting picture than the standard journalistic cliché of paradise lost.’ – The Sydney Morning Herald

‘… will make even Bali “regulars” rethink how well they know it. With a surfer’s humour and a journalist’s balance Jarratt explores Bali’s bloody history, pre-terrorism, its spiritual life and where Australia’s affinity with Bali began.’ – Australian Associated Press

‘Should be compulsory reading for those who frequent the island.’ – ReadingTree.com