The first thing to say is that this is an engaging and very readable book, with a fresh and direct approach to its subject- the rise and tragic failure of the Arab Spring.
Emma Sky comes across as a brave and intelligent witness to these events, with a deep love and understanding of the area, especially Iraq.
She has worked with both NGOs and the American military, and seems to be both fair minded and generous in her dealings with everyone.
The book is the story of her latest travels around North Africa and Arabia trying to grasp the reality of the political unrest and the everyday experiences of ordinary citizens caught up them. This combined with her meetings with the extensive contacts she developed in her previous work, and the historical background she deploys make for a sadly depressing but persuasive read.
Her love for the people and the land shines through.
Emma Sky comes across as a brave and intelligent witness to these events, with a deep love and understanding of the area, especially Iraq.
She has worked with both NGOs and the American military, and seems to be both fair minded and generous in her dealings with everyone.
The book is the story of her latest travels around North Africa and Arabia trying to grasp the reality of the political unrest and the everyday experiences of ordinary citizens caught up them. This combined with her meetings with the extensive contacts she developed in her previous work, and the historical background she deploys make for a sadly depressing but persuasive read.
Her love for the people and the land shines through.