Customer Reviews

Lawrence of Arabia

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

 

 

I had previously read the Robert Graves book on Lawrence. This was far more superior. It was engrossing, detailed and made me want to know more about this incredible man. There didn't seem to be any bias for or against Lawrence by the author. It moved quickly. It's apparent that he did a very detailed job of researching Lawrence. I am know looking for other books that might uncover even more information. Enjoy!

I read this because of my great love of the movie. Interesting enough, this is the first time that the real life was far more interesting than the myth. What happened in Arabia might have been his coup de grace of achievements, but hardly the only aspect that makes him a ledgend. He was an archeologist, thinker, writer, humanitarian, culturalist, adventurist, and only a military genious by circumstance. This book makes it all clear and vivid.

I have read biographies before, but none that held on to my imagination so tightly while still using the historical records. I am only sorry that it has the unfortunate sub-title as authorized biography because many who think it will be a dry "whitewashed" examination of his life will miss a wonderful book. I can't heap praise on this book, and the life of T.E. Lawrence, enough. There might be books with far different and valid interpretations, but hardly as fun and interesting to read. The size of the book at nearly a thousand pages is worth every bit of paper printed on it. I guess I should congradulate the author for a fine presentation of a wonderful character.

This 128 page paperback version may be a good read. I don't know, haven't read it. My copy is the 946 page hardcover edition. It is thorough, balanced and an excellent read. If you can find that version, get it!

Unlike our National Hero - Lawrence, I am a mere mortal & a man of few words. So, for those of us that have watched the classic account of his ventures in Arabia on film Lawrence of Arabia - Two Disc Set [DVD] [1962] and were compelled to watch it more than once AND have tried to plough through His epic book Seven Pillars of Wisdom (Wordsworth Classics of World Literature) and failed miserably AND who want to understand more of one of Britons Greats & a legend in his own right - DO read this book!!

Who else but Jeremy Wilson is qualified to know T.E.Lawrence better? A small, interesting, vividly detailed & easily accessible book with some black & white photos of Lawrence & his cottage at Clouds Hill. If you ever wondered what all the fuss was about & were looking for a quick insight into a REAL hero, then this is the one to choose.

Jeremy's book will dispel all the myths & rumors you may have heard about Lawrence & show you that he was not only well read but very talented, full of energy & vision, well connected but at the same time tormented by some events in the war & his upbringing & embarrassed about his fame.