Life of Pi: What's the equation?

     A math problem?  An animal management puzzle?  A self-discipline guide?  A travel advisory?  A spiritual lesson in survival? Life of Pi is all of these and more.  If you're wondering how the various parts all fit together, here are some resources and ideas to consider. 
     The novel is beautiful in spirit and also takes place in amazing environments; take time to ponder the beauty within it.  Above left is a view of a promenade overlooking the coastline of Pondicherry, India.

At right, a Hindu temple shares space in
Pondi-
cherry with Christian and Muslim places of worship. 
Pi was affected by them all.



Below, the beautiful foliage, people and streets of
Pondicherry, where Pi's well-known and respected family had successfully managed a zoo for many years.