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debmo79's review
5.0
By turns heartbreaking and insightful. Macintyre does a good job recounting Gaza's fraught history with Israel and the political turmoil that led to the problems facing Gaza today. At the same time he weaves thoughout stories that demonstrate the courage and resilience of Palestinian people in the face of extraordinary suffering. Highly recommended for anyone interested in a more complete understanding of how the world got into the current mess.
farahchaudry's review
dark
informative
reflective
sad
slow-paced
4.5
A hugely informative account of life in Gaza which, despite being published in 2017, tells a very familiar story for those watching the horrific events currently unfolding for Palestinians in Gaza. This book combines a narrative of events from recent decades, while incorporating Macintyre's own experience on the ground working as Middle East correspondent for the Independent, and numerous first and second hand accounts from Palestinians over the years.
Although now out-of-date given how much has happened in the last 8 years, this is a superb introduction to some of the events that have led to the current situation in Gaza - delving into the politics between Hamas, Fatah and Israel alongside other countries in the Middle East and the strong influence from the US, EU and UK, while showcasing what life was really like for ordinary Palestinians.
Like many western journalists, Macintyre attempts to give a 'balanced' perspective, but his narrative doesn't shy away from the horrors impacting local Gazans and he is sensitive in his sharing of local people's experiences. Despite the devastating violence impacting this beautiful place and some of the truly heartbreaking stories, Macintyre manages to highlight the hope and potential for Gaza, should some of the political challenges be overcome.
I would definitely recommend giving this one a read if you are looking to learn about Gaza.
Although now out-of-date given how much has happened in the last 8 years, this is a superb introduction to some of the events that have led to the current situation in Gaza - delving into the politics between Hamas, Fatah and Israel alongside other countries in the Middle East and the strong influence from the US, EU and UK, while showcasing what life was really like for ordinary Palestinians.
Like many western journalists, Macintyre attempts to give a 'balanced' perspective, but his narrative doesn't shy away from the horrors impacting local Gazans and he is sensitive in his sharing of local people's experiences. Despite the devastating violence impacting this beautiful place and some of the truly heartbreaking stories, Macintyre manages to highlight the hope and potential for Gaza, should some of the political challenges be overcome.
I would definitely recommend giving this one a read if you are looking to learn about Gaza.
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