Andrew Wachtel

For being such a slim volume, it contains a great amount of both history and theory on the development of a very jumbled section of the world. More than the actual historical study itself, I enjoyed the portions of the book that focused on the why and why not--how the 20th century conflicts in the area got started, why there was so much diversity in the area. I also think this book serves as a good jumping-off point for those interested in learning about the building of nation-states, and show more those concerned about the reasons behind present conflict hot-spots. My only complaint would have to be the aforementioned slimness of the volume--I think if Wachtel took more time to add in more historical points and draw out his conclusions more, it would be a definite five-star read. show less

Really happy to have discovered this work. Two chapters in, I am impressed by the way the authors have linked society and politics to the creative arts and the persons involved. I am confident this will prove to be a most instructive and profitable book on the subject.