From Beirut to Jerusalem

The New York Times Middle East correspondent profiles this troubled region, describing the everyday horrors of Beirut, the intricacies of Arab politics, Arab-Israeli relations, and American perceptions of the region.

If you want to read a very enjoyable and well written book on the middle east this is it. Friedman is a balanced and knowledgeable writer. I couldn't put it down. If you've got the time and the desire to work through 1400 pages I understand Fisk's book on the Great War For Civilization tells it all.

The situation in the Middle East is often repetitive, boring and/or difficult to understand to the untrained eye. Thankfully, it will no longer be so. In From Beirut to Jerusalem, Thomas Friedman tells a very accurate and easy-to-understand story of the conflict in the Middle East. Going in a logical order, he writes a comprehensive account of his experience as one of the New York Times' top journalists/correspondents in the Middle East. Friedman's expert writing skills and his fine hand for detail and description brings the Middle East novice into an understanding and appreciation of the complex situation going on in the Middle Eastern area today. Although the topic at hand is somewhat serious, Friedman understands when and when not to add a touch of humour here and there. The humour he incorporates into the story is as natural as it gets. His expertise in journalism allows his writing to come alive and integrate quotes in the finest way possible. From Beirut to Jerusalem is the emotional, informative story of Friedman's astounding encounters on the road between Beirut and Jerusalem. It was a six-day trip, and one that will last him a lifetime; if you read it, it will last you a lifetime as too. Not to be missed!

Couldn't put the book down and well worthy of the National Book Award. Thomas Friedman shows a different side to life and politics in Israel and Lebanon in a lucid, well-constructed overview. Even though much has changed since the book was published in 1989, the book is still relevant as it puts you in the mindframe of the decision-makers. A must-read as this small piece of our globe impacts all of our lives.