Baghdad Sketches (Marlboro Travel)

A collection of 31 short articles, sketches as Stark describes them, most of which appeared in the Baghdad Times in 1931, but with eight later articles written about fiv years later prior to publication as a book in 1937.
Being newspaper articles they vary widely in subject matter, although most relate to Iraq, some recount visits to Kuwait (fascinating) and travelling through Syria. However they are all enchanting, noticing the advantages and disadvantages of both the original habits of the Iraqi peoples, as well as modernising (1930’s) Western habits. Although from an acknowledged privileged position, these sketches provide an insight into a rapidly disappearing society, especially of the Beduin (sic).
The Nisibin Road article and the show more early articles describing Stark’s first impressions of Iraq were my favourite, but overall the articles provide a fascinating historic snapshot of a changing society. show less

The writing style is not that easy to follow and I really don't like that orientalist tone but overall it draws sketches of Iraqis cities that I am sure are completely changed.

this was avery pleasant read. The author has a wonderful way with words. It is so descriptive, you can almost smell the desert winds!