The best of all possible worlds! This truly global multicultural reader features contemporary selections by sixty-one internationally acclaimed authors from twenty-six countries. These compelling readings explore cultural differences in relation to race, class, gender and nationality, challenging students to compare their experiences with those of others in radically different cultural circumstances. Eight thematic chapters explore cultural perspectives on human experiences around the globe; family life, adolescent relationships, gender roles, work, race and class conflicts, customs, rituals and values. New chapters focus on geopolitical issues and experiencing different cultures. General Interest: Improving writing.