With Lawrence in Arabia

This biography of T. E. Lawrence does not stand up well in today's literature. Lowell's views of Arabs and their culture are reflective of the era prevailing at the time of writing. It's a very laudatory, somewhat biased view of Lawrence's participation in this history of the Arab revolt during WWI.

Some mention of the other participants in fighting the Turkish occupants of the disputed area were interesting. Often the writing was overwhelmed with side events and turgid detail . Not to deny the fact that Lawrence wrote that way himself, especially in Seven Pillars of Wisdom. I prefer the story in Lawrence's own words, having read the abridged version of this history in T. E.'s book, Revolt in the Desert (published in 1927).

At first this book struck me as hero worship, but the further I read, I realized that Lowell Thomas was reporting events, and there was no getting around the super-nature of T. E. Lawrence and his accomplishments. Lowell's style of journalism is a bit flowery, as was usual in his time. Though some of his opinions seem harsh, that is how the Arabs and other races were perceived. He does a nice job of reporting facts and events, analyzing the significance of them and helping the reader to perceive the truth, whether it is flattering, harsh or beautiful. At times I was horrified by the nature of the Arabs and their ways, then, in the next chapter I would be moved to awe by their courage, stamina or philosophies. Lowell also tells about the show more other British soldiers who were in Arabia at the time helping to fight Turkey. A very interesting read, it was nice to have seen the movie, which seems to illustrate this book so well. show less

Good introduction to T. E. Lawrence.

Collectible from the Lowell Thomas Library, featuring his time spent with Lawrence of Arabia.

Not illustrated, no photographs

Very good condition. Pale foxing throughout. Minor staining due to age. Cover shows shelf wear. Binding is tight

Fair condition. Cloth binding shows much wear and text on spine is faint. Foxing, some staining, and age discoloration throughout book. Binding is good.