Press Reviews:
"A new, self-guided audio tour of the city’s bookish haunts, from old libraries to independent bookstores, is a delight.. Bengaluru’s claim as a literary city is not new—the city’s network of independent bookstores, book clubs, reading groups, literary festivals and a generally thriving literary culture has been well recorded, but this particular walking tour throws a spotlight on the not-sowell-known aspects of this culture." – Mint Lounge
"A new way to attain flaneur-dom in Bengaluru… with writer Zac O'Yeah narrating entertaining and informative insights that bring to life literary facts and stories rooted in Bengaluru.... Here I will also say the clean design and easy-to-understand user interface of the Tourific app, with its map view and photos, ensures you recognize the landmarks along the way and could never be lost for directions. The text option of the narration also increases its accessibility.." – Substack Review by Saudha Kasim
"The history of the city is also brought to vivid life through O’Yeah’s voice — from the battles that were once fought here, to the immigrants who settled in the city centuries ago alongside the residents of the pete."The Indian Express
Uncover the hidden literary treasures of Bengaluru with author Zac O'Yeah as your guide. From bustling book bazaars to heritage libraries and cafes where iconic writers have left their mark, this app-based, self-guided Book Walk is an immersive journey for anyone passionate about books, history, and the charm of old Bangalore. Perfect for Book Lovers, History Buffs, and Explorers. Whether you’re a lifelong Bengaluru resident, a visitor, or a curious reader, Zac’s Book Walk has something for everyone.
What You’ll Experience:
Starting in the old city bazaars, this tour takes you past landmarks, hidden bookshops, historic institutions, and scenic spots that make Bengaluru a booklover’s dream. Each stop is woven with stories about the city’s past, its people, and its bookish culture. Along the way, Zac shares fascinating anecdotes about the authors who have walked these streets, the bookshops that have defined the city’s literary scene, and the locations that have inspired literature over generations.
Key Stops Include:
Avenue Road Book Bazaar – Dive into one of Bengaluru’s largest second-hand book markets.
Cubbon Park – Stroll through green paths lined with history, art, and cultural spots.
Mythic Society Library – One of the city’s oldest libraries with a treasure trove of local history.
Church Street – The heart of the city’s book scene, with classic and indie bookshops at every turn.
Koshy’s Café – A beloved haunt for writers and thinkers, with a menu steeped in local history.
Flexible Tour:
With approximately 9 kilometers of literary adventures, this tour is customizable. Walk the entire route or split it into parts based on your time and interests. The app guides you to each location with interactive maps and photos
About Zac O’Yeah:
Zac O’Yeah came to Bengaluru in 1991, when it was still known as Bangalore, and fell in love with the city and its bookshops. A detective novelist and travel writer, Zac is known for his vivid portrayals of India, particularly in his acclaimed ”Majestic Trilogy” set in Bengaluru, consisting of Mr. Majestic! (2012), Hari – A Hero for Hire (2015), and Tropical Detective (2018). Before the pandemic, Zac worked as a freelancer for National Geographic Traveller magazine through the 2010s, specialising on India and Asia, and prior to that he wrote for numerous other travel publications, but after the pandemic his explorations have largely been limited to journeys and discoveries within Bengaluru, his hometown since decades. His writings have been published in magazines and newspapers across the world, translated into around 20 languages, as well as being included in multiple anthologies such as The Best Asian Travel Writing 2020. Zac also freelanced for Swedish Radio for four decades and enjoys chatting and telling stories as you will hear in this App. The approximately twenty books he has written include travelogues, history, and many novels, some of which have been shortlisted for various awards. Furthermore, Zac has worked with theatre, music, dance, design, and other creative art forms.