Customer Reviews

Kurdistan: In the Shadow of History

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

For those with an interest in Kurdish studies, this volume is a must. Recording the history of this nation-less state, Meisalis has done an extraordinary job of compiling not only the traditional linear history, but has added a caleidoscope of supporting documentation, to include rare pictures,maps, letters, etc.... I value this book as a cornerstone of my collection of books dealing with the history of this region (Turkey, Iran, Iraq, Syria). As mentioned in other reviews, this is a weighty tome (literally). Well worth the look for the pictures alone!

This fantastic book is designed as a scrapbook of over 100 years of Kurdish history. It pieces together photographs, newspaper clippings, and excerpts from letters to present the story of the Kurds and their persistent, ultimately unsuccessful attempts to gain independence.

Major events and figures are covered in all the regions of Kurdistan - Southeast Turkey, Eastern Syria, and Northwest Iran. I would recommend this book to anyone as a primer on political events in the Middle East during the 20th century. Be warned that this volume is literally quite heavy.

I know a Kurdish scholar who has many more information in pictures about Kurdish Aghas and leaders with many more authenticated stories. I wish Ms Susan had put more effort to explore them. But the book is a very good documentary on Kurdustan and part of the real Kurds.

It is an absolutely well-written book, with great information about the history of the Kurds. It is definitely worth more than how much it's listed for because of the information and the pictures it has. I just can't wait to read more books of the writer! She has done a beautiful job.

Ms. Meisalis has complied a beautiful history of the Kurdish people. This book is a must for anyone connected to, or interested in, the history of the Kurds.

I can't put this book down, it's by far the most cherished book in my entire collection. The pictures, although heart-wrenching, are fascinating, the text is well researched and passionate. This is definitely a "must own" book, and I believe it should be required reading for all students. It captures the plight of the Kurdish population perfectly, and chronicles concisely the abuse and atrocities they have endured over the centuries. At the same time showing in explicit detail the pride and beauty of the Kurds. Anyone with even the slightest interest in history, justice, politics, or the cultures and traditions of the Kurdish and Middle Eastern regions, should own this book. Five stars is not nearly enough to rate this book, it deserves 5000 stars.

I don't own this book and can't afford it...but I'm saving to buy it. In the mean time I have access to one of the largest Middle Eastern libraries in the United States with unended renewal policies, so I do have a copy in my posession.

The pictures alone are absolutely amazing and well worth the book price. It has photos of original documents and papers that other books only mention in brief, transcripts from radio programs, diary entries, newspaper clippings, government papers...it is truely an amazing Kurdish documentary.
However because it does cover so much, it is not as in depth into specific subjects as other works. This does not make it any less valuable a resource though, for it contains a LOT of information that I have yet to find in any other source.

If you are a Kurdish scholar you MUST buy this book. If you are a Kurd and want to know your history, you should read this book. If you are curious about the Kurdish people, or have an interest in the regions history I highly recommend this book.

Even if you despise the Kurdish people and couldn't care less about their struggles, I still encourage you to read this book. For, if what you've been taught is true, it should certainly stand up in the face of all evidence. If it is not true, it is never too late to learn...and perhaps, just maybe, when your own country no longer discriminates against people who are different, other countries will no longer discriminate against yours for being different as well....just a little food for thought.

The kurds are the most neumerous people on earth without their own state.Outsiders have approached kurds in different ways; I do not know of any people belonging to western culture to suppport kurds without reservesions. Susan has learned a lot while working on this project. Let us hope that her work changes the position of reservesions.

Although this is a quality book, it is so overpriced that few people would ever buy it or get a chance to read it. I believe that the world is in great need of a readable volume about a Kurd who suffered through and survived the chemical attacks. I hope that an author famous for bringing to life the experiences of individuals will tackle this much needed project. Most people need to be educated on the Kurdish issue and on the Armenian issue. Such a book on either subject that targets ONE LIFE, I will buy and pass along to my Kurdish and Armenian relatives. This one is too convoluted and out of price range.