David Shiplers journalistic skills are enormous; the book is assembled nearly perfectly, with balance, insight, and compassion. Ive read it through twice, and have never found another book that comes close in terms of presenting the truth of the Middle East conflict. For American readers, the greatest service this book offers is an uncompromisingly fair, even wise, portrayal of the Palestinian side of the conflict in this region, if only because of Americas historically pro-Israel policies; policies, incidentally, which have not always concerned themselves with truth. Because of that act of journalistic justice, the peculiarly touching aspect of Israels unavoidable internal sorrow at her predicament becomes, perhaps for the first time, something understandable and noble. It is an easy thing to take sides in a situation such as one finds in the Middle East; it is not so easy to patiently explore the myriad strands of time and fate that weave through both sides of such an unsolvable conflict. This book goes a long way toward making an attempt to do just that. This is a clear-headed book spoken by the very people involved; it is wise and engaging, and full of David Shiplers heart. It is no wonder that it was awarded the Pulitzer Prize. Highest recommendation!
This was an outstanding book. Over 500 pages packed full of information and insight. The book goes in depth on the problems in Israel and the Middle East. Not just the problems that we hear about on TV. But the people problems. The author goes to the deep underlying problems. The people and their customes and beliefs. Covering the stereo types, the religious differences, their histories. The book interviews people about their fears. The author talks to both Arabs and Jews. He talks to Christians, Muslims and Jews. He reviews incidents of terrorism on all sides of the conflict. This is a must read book if you are interested in understanding the problems of the Middle East. Although it is full of information it is not hard to read. It goes a long way at explaining things. We all know that the problems in the Middle East are not easy to solve but this book showed me how truly deep the problems run. The prejudices from all sides are astounding. This is an outstanding piece of writing and research! Read it and enjoy.
The book was probably one of the best non-fiction pieces of literature that I have ever read. It was in-depth yet not boring. I especially enjoyed the way it outlined the stereotypes between the two peoples. The stories of friends who become enemies as time goes on are extremely compiling. In the book I was able to identify some of my own predigest that I never even know existed. I am also able to identify the things I see and hear for what they are. I have always looked at the trouble in the Middle East from one side. I am now able to realize that there are two peoples in the Promised Land This book takes stories of the people. I thought this was a most excellent approach. Every time I read an article it always goes into politics and laws issues and referendums. This book delved into the real problem between the people. I now see that even thought it may be the slow pace a diplomatic approach between the people is the only way peace will come.
