em_beddedinbooks's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

My first non fiction on Afghanistan history and geopolitical situation and its relationship with British India in the early 20th century. Learnt a lot. Am impressed with the author's writing, but didn't enjoy the latter half of the book much, as I don't much like reading about revolutions, rebellions and the day today political, minutiae.
Moreover, I hated the way Syed treated his more -than -faithful Afghan Man Friday, Abdur Rahiman towards the end.
Came to know more about the British atrocities perpetuated in the Indian subcontinent during that era.
All in all, a very educational and enlightening travelogue, but I would have preceded a lighter read than this sugar coated bitter pill.

the relatively low rating is solely based upon my personal preferences, perhaps it would be higher if I could critically evaluate and rate this book.

ibk's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

Bias Disclaimer - The author is a "grandparent" of mine.

There's two things I really loved about this book - the character development of some of the characters (Abdur Rahman especially) & the description of Afghanistan. Both were wonderful.

The plot was a little thin for the first half of the book, but it picks up in the second half.

Really enjoyable read, but I cannot call it a masterpiece. Doesn't blow me away enough.
More...