Customer Reviews

Behind the Veil: An Australian Nurse in Saudi Arabia

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
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Lydia Laube in her adventures "Behind the Veil: An Australian nurse in Saudi Arabia" has captured the essence of her experience. She begins by taking the reader on her journey, as she enters Saudi Arabia as a travel nurse on a one year contract assignment. Her love of adventure shines through as she relates to the reader the unique culture shock and customs of this closed country. Her story, for many travelers will be all that they may experience of this oil rich nation that does not admit tourists. Laube successfully pulls the reader into the very essence of the culture, language and customs of the Muslim daily life. She candidly shares the challenges of health care in a nation, plagued by ineffieciency, where women have no rights, censorship is the norm and capital punishment is strickly enforced. Laube remains strong with determination to improve her surroundings, and the level of care at this hospital, a challenge especially as a woman in a culture that does not respect women. She shares the triumphs and sorrows of daily life. Laube relates the misfortunes of expatriates from the Philippines, Sudan, India, Korea and European countries and of recruiting agencies misguided promises. Laube's candid book is a must read for every nurse or health care professional considering a term in Saudi Arabia. Also an excellent resource for expatriates planning a term of service.

I've read everything this writer has written, she is a great story teller, great sense of humor, very entertaining books.

All I'll say is that the author had the patience (or stubborn-ness!) of a saint! After reading about her experiences with the religious police, what tourist would WANT to go there if they could?