A review by jmltgu
Babylon by Bus: Or true story of two friends who gave up valuable franchise selling T-shirts to find meaning & adventure in Iraq where they became employed by the Occupation... by Ray LeMoine, Jeff Neumann

4.0

I really don't even know where to start with this one, so we'll default to the beginning. Most people, despite the old adage, DO judge a book by its cover: I thought this would be a raucous, but interesting look at Iraq through the eyes of two "interesting" characters. The best review would probably be the book's sub-title, whose "Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure" vibe is carried on throughout. Also carried throughout the book are copious amounts of drugs, which are frivolously intermixed with cheap alcohol and wanton self-endangerment. These two are QUITE the pair. At the end, though, despite all the crude and unsavory paths taken, I did actually feel like I learned something. Not your typical war memorial, this will resonate with those who have gotten off into the streets and seen life in Iraq and the Middle East. Lots of people, lots of problems, lots of opportunities to do and be better - I guess maybe more of us could take a cue from these self-admitted stoners. At least they (purportedly) took time to help, when others simply stood by looking out for number one. The ending is also a poignant reminder of, well, I won't spoil it... but hopelessness and chaos are definitely themes that leave space for reflection. I recommend it for people who don't mind vulgarity (in all possible forms) and are interested in life in Iraq right after the 2003 invasion.