I do that, too. That way, I discovered Laura Restrepo in Colombia, Slam dog millionaire in India, before the film was shot and lots of others. I also revisited George Orwell in Myanmar, reading Burmese days.
I don’t think I have read anything written by a New Zealander author and may be interested in reading this book. Why is it not an easy read? Is it because the reality depicted is hard or is it difficult to understand or focus the attention on the thread?
Isabel Allende is one of my favourite authors. I have read most of her books, including the ones you mentioned. In fact, right now I’m reading My name is Emilia del Valle. The house of the spirits is one of my favourites and I also love the film. I think Meryl Streep is fantastic there.