Middle East Books

Kaplan, Danny. "Brothers and Others in Arms: The Making of Love and War in Israeli Combat Units", Harrington Park Press, 2003.

Homosexuality in the Israeli Army

Amos Lassen

The military is an integral part of Israeli society and many of us do not realize that there indeed exists a level of homoeroticism in the Israel Defense Forces. Danny Kaplan takes an in-depth look and thereby makes a valuable addition to the ongoing issue of gays in the military as well as to a better understanding of homosexuality in general.
The first part of the book is made up of interviews with Israeli soldiers about their experiences in the army and they give us a picture of another world. We see relationships of men that go beyond just pure sexual lust. We hear of deep feelings and we learn that the men need some kind of sexual outlet while on active duty.
We get quite a thought provoking fusion of love and war. Kaplan analyzes the interviews with qualitative analyses of individual experiences based on erotic and social relationships in an environment that is made up of only men. He finds that a sexual fling is a symptomatic expression of much deeper feelings but above all his finding shows that sexual needs must have an outlet in a semi-confined place where there are mostly men.

`The book then explores male eroticism and masculinity in the culture of the military and how it affects those involved. It is considered general knowledge that same-sex male relationships go beyond platonic friendships and these have always occurred. Commanders even use these relationships as a resource for military accomplishments.
Danny Kaplan shows a very thin line between brothers in arms and brothers in bed and maintains that the military life is all about male eroticism. Israelis grow up in a culture that is steeped in the military and this book is essential to the understanding of gay and bisexual life in Israel.

In this book the author conducts in the first part in-depth interviews with Israeli soldiers about their experiences in the armed forces. They reveal another world, ususally written out by those who do not wish to recognise it. The author provides qualitative analyses of the individual experiences based on social and erotic relationships in an all-male environment. The point the author makes here is that such relationship go beyond sheer lust. And the sexual fling is a symptomatic expression of feelings which run deeper. It is unavoidable though that sexuality needs some kind of let-out in an all male semi-confined environment.

The book then goes on to further explore male eroticism and masculinity in military culture, and its meanings in real human terms. It is an open secret that male to male relationships transcending platonic friendships have been going on for centuries in armies and navies, and are still going on. The intimate ties that bind individuals to their fellow warriors have been (and are) used by foresighted commanders as a resource for military accomplishments.

In ancient times the sexual organs used to be cut off the bodies of enemy warriors and used in rituals to imbue the victorious army with the strength, virility and masculinity of the other side's heroes, at the same time this demasculation is a means of stripping off power and humiliation. In a perverse way the same sex acts though between comrades in arms not only serve to relieve pressure but also to take on the virility of the other in union. The title of the book, a veritable pun on its contents, says it all in a nutshell.

I suggest you watch the Israeli film Yossi & Jagger as a kind of 'live' illustration to this book.

A thought provoking fusion of love and war, this books offers unsettling real life stories of gay and bisexual men in combat. As one Israeli soldier put it: "when the war started, things became insane, completely shattering conventions. It is permitted to kill...War is an unbelievable thing, anarchy. So everyone came out of the closet during war and went wild."
The second part of the book explores these paradoxes of masculine military culture. The author unveils, chapter by chapter, the thin line between brothers in arms and brothers in bed. How does sexuality reinforce the combat thrill and the "sexual targeting" of the enemy? How do individuals manage their gay identity and at the same time stick to the codes of soldiery and masculinity?
In fact, the book reveals what is really very old news: That military life is all about male homoeroticism! The ancient Greeks, the Romans, the Vikings, and later the Turks, the Japanese, Papua New Guinea tribes, and the modern Israelis - all acknowledged the intimate ties between fellow warriors as an emotional resource for military accomplishment. Irrespective of sexual orientation, these erotic tensions are managed, controlled and then channeled and used as an aggressive driving force to strike at the real enemy, not for targeting your own friends. Reading this book, one can't understand why the American military adheres to his anti-gay witch-hunt, which only reminds everyone this open secret that this book so vividly describes and analyzes.

From Hayworh Press: "Examine the ways that gay and bisexual men reconstruct their identity-in the steaming melting pot of military life!

This unique book combines in-depth interviews with gay/bisexual Israeli soldiers with a systematic qualitative analysis of what they have to say. In their own words, you'll hear these fighting men discuss both their combat experience and their social and erotic experiences with their fellow soldiers. Then the insightful analyses of each soldier's identification with masculine-military culture gives you a new awareness of how combat is related to male desire.

Brothers and Others in Arms brings you the words of these Israeli men of action. Steeped in `masculitary'culture (a term fully explored in the book), these soldiers--on missile boats, working in reconnaissance units, in tanks, as paratroopers and pilots-share with you the inner workings of their minds and their passions as they perform their life-threatenting jobs along with their peers, both gay and straight.

Essential to understanding gay/bisexual life in Israel and its military, Brothers and Others in Arms focuses on the emotional process behind military performance."

This is a very fine book and well worth picking up and reading IF you are interested in the Byzantine physical remnants of Anatolia, in particular. Ash spends some time visiting sites in Constantinople at the beginning and end of his journey, but the lion's share is spent between Iznik/Nicaea, at the west end, and Cappadocia and Cilicia, at the east end of Asia Minor. Ash may not be a Byzantine scholar, but he is a master at noticing detail and telling stories. His sensitive and learned eye provide remarkable insight into the ruins he visits, in terms of the lives of the people connected to them...their builders, if known, the lives of Anatolia's Greek population (of which very substantial remains existed up until the early 1920s), and Anatolian Turks of today (Ash has a kind and observant way of recognizing the young boys and girls who seem to always pop up and help him find this or that ruin, that rings true).

You truly won't get this stuff in guidebooks. I found out all sorts of things about Byzantium reading Ash's book, and I'm a pretty conversant layman in things Byzantine. Comparing Ash's experience with my own to Istanbul/Iznik a few years ago, his accounts are authentic to the what I experienced (the friendliness and helpfulness of Anatolians in particular). His account of his visit to the Golden Gate is hilarious and pathetic and much like my own experience at this (apparently almost unvisited) world class historic location. He has an ability to marvel, unashamedly, at turning a corner and finding something unexpected...but this is no neophyte easily impressed.

Ash also has a lovely poetic way of expressing the tragic demise of Byzantine civilization that somehow manages to remain firmly rooted in the present. That's good writing.

Book has some good photos (more would be welcomed...he visits many places that do not show up in the pics), and the map is okay, as is the index.

The author is not one who has gone this way before and is therefore giving a somewhat innocent view of Byzantine monuments in Turkey. I found in the book interesting dialogue and some helpful suggestions for visiting those same sights in May '98.

Ash is a great writer. He makes Byzantine history come alive and captures life in modern Turkey. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the region and its history.

this is a wonderful book. Ash is an attentive and descriptive writer who weaves anecdote, history and travel writing into an unusually gifted book. Perfect beach or travel reading. As one who is Greek and originally from Asia Minor, I find his insights to be keen, especially as to cultural matters and the tug of war between Greek and Turk, between Christian and Moslem, which animates the history of Asia Minor and Constantinople, Smyrna, Nicaea and Nicomedia to this day.

This is a beautiful and useful book, simplicity itself, that is written in a way that is as poetic, soulful, simple, and unpretentious as the cuisine it explores. The book instructed me not only how to prepare these dishes technically, but also how to appreciate their profound artistic and culinary value. As a great amateur of all things Middle-Eastern, this book is one of my most prized posessions.

I love this cookbook series!

If you have ever had the desire to try to cook Moroccan, start here. The photographs are lovely and informative. Truly a tasty book!

I borrowed this book from my local library and enjoyed it so much that I purchased my own copy. Every recipe is tasty and not very difficult to put together. I own quite a few cookbooks, and this is one I refer to over and over. What a find!

While living in Morocco for six months, I learned to cook with my host mother. When I returned home I began to look for a cookbook with which to recreate my experiences. I hoped to find something that included both simple staples and more elaborate recipes that show off the potential complexity of Moroccan flavoring. I looked through a lot of cookbooks both here and in France (where there is a large Maghrebi community), and finally decided that this book was the best of the lot.

"Cafe Morocco" is suitable for both novices and those more familiar with Moroccan cooking. Many other cookbooks focus too much on lush photography of Moroccan souqs and too little on the recipes. This book centers on the food without sacrificing aesthetics, and presents an accurate, tasty interpretation of Moroccan cuisine. In addition to being filled with gorgeous, colorful photographs, the book is well laid-out, with clearly marked ingredient lists and simple instructions. At the front of the book are descriptions of ingredients essential to Moroccan cooking, and a brief discussion of cooking equipment and techniques.

Included are several basic bread recipes and a fairly large selection of tajines and couscouses, based mainly on lamb or fish. Helou also presents an unusually wide variety of vegetable-based side dishes that are so essential to Moroccan meals, but are often overlooked in restaurants and cookbooks. Consequently, this book is an excellent purchase for vegetarians (like myself) who love Moroccan food but can't eat meals centered on meat. Although the dessert section is a bit thin, it includes most basic dishes and a number of drinks. Most importantly, there are instructions on how to prepare fresh mint tea, the quintessential Moroccan gustatory and cultural experience.

Leonidas Chrysanthopoulos, the author of Caucasus Chronicles: Nation-Building And Diplomacy In Armenia, 1993-1994, was appointed Greek ambassador to the newly independent Armenia in 1993, entering the country as an ambassador at a pivotal moment when world powers were just starting to struggle for a new world created by the collapse of the Cold War. Caucasus Chronicles provides a survey of nation-building and diplomatic process in the newly independent Armenia from 1993-94, providing excellent first-person insights.

This book made me to remember in detais what was life in Armenia during first half of 1990s. The overall picture is very 'real', colourful, dramatic and at the same time humorous. The author also presented lots of interesting information about political, economical situation, and their relation to external factors.
There are interesting notes about top political persons. Author gives lots of pictures from everyday life he observed while in Armenia. There are facts that I didn't know about - for example information that Turkey had plans on bombing Yerevan; attempts of Greece with helping Armenia to gain oil producing equipment, etc.
Overall the author gave informative review of events in interesting form, the book is written in friendly and humorous tones and is very interesting to read.
My thanks to the autor, Mr. Chrysanthopoulos.

Leonidas Chrysanthopoulos, the author of Caucasus Chronicles: Nation-Building And Diplomacy In Armenia, 1993-1994, was appointed Greek ambassador to the newly independent Armenia in 1993, entering the country as an ambassador at a pivotal moment when world powers were just starting to struggle for a new world created by the collapse of the Cold War. Caucasus Chronicles provides a survey of nation-building and diplomatic processes in the newly independent Armenia from 1993-94, providing excellent first-person insights.

The author was in Armenia at a difficult but pivotal time. He was excited to be there, hardships notwithstanding, and maybe that's why the book was a good read: the author's excitement rubs off on the reader.

He recalls his adventures, his meetings (with top officials and starving farmers alike), and his impressions. We see a country coping with the collapse of its economy, two years after the breakup of the Soviet Union: for example, a cheese shop full of cheese that turns out to radioactive, dumped from Chernobyl; or waking up, lighting a kerosene heater, and waiting for water in the teapot to thaw before eventually boiling.

In the background there is war between neighboring Azerbaijan and the Armenian enclave of Karabagh. We get a look behind the scenes. In one chapter, we are told that according to U.S. and French intelligence reports, Turkey was planning an invasion of Armenia. The suggestion is alarming, and certainly worth looking into.

All-in-all, a worthwhile book.

In this artfully written narrative, author Jared Cohen gives an insider's view of the youth culture of the Middle East. Through conversations with various groups of the under 30 demographic, we learn about the hopes and dreams of these young adults as well as the challenges they face under their governments and the changes they want to make inorder to pursue their potential and live better lives. Counter to what we may believe as Americans, these young adults are technologically savvy and connected to the outside world through every modern medium at their disposable-the internet,mobile phones, and Satellite television. They know how we live and want the same opportunities for themselves but just need help in order to obtain them.
I highly recommend this book for any one interested in Middle Eastern Affairs and understanding a culture and demographic that will soon be helping shape our world.

Children of Jihad is an enlightening book that gives us hope for America's relationship with the Middle East. The author shows infinite possibilities to bridge the gap between the youths of both America and the Middle East. Similarities between two are as shocking. Moreover, the guts the author demonstrates during his adventure are impressive! This book presents realistic opportunities both groups can take advantage of to shift the views of one another.

I highly recommend this book! It's a page turner!

Very highest recommendation.

In a remarkable narrative, this young author, that has gained so much deserved attention for his daring travel and research, provides a vivid and rousing account of interactions with Islamic youth. Cohen's eagerness to uncover commonalities between members of the new generation across national borders is inspiring and affirming that the future holds promise for our world.

Children of Jihad is a groundbreaking book, which reminds us that despite the conflict around the world, we should remain hopeful because of the youth. Cohen paints a compelling picture of how youth in the Middle East are using technology to shape their futures. He talks about how youth in the region are creating civil liberties that they would not otherwise have through their cell phones, computers, and satellite TV. He shows us how despite young people having a varying set of political beliefs and religious practices, there is in fact a youth identity that ties all young people together. In describing the youth of Iran, he describes these young people as the de facto opposition, but reminds the reader that they do not yet realize their value as a demographic. Cohen artfully connects these trends back to his own experiences as a youth in America. Having read Children of Jihad, I am more optimistic about the future.

This 152-page encyclopedia is a highly recommended pick for any who want to focus on the history of the Middle East: the editor has spent years teaching in the region and this provides easy access to knowledge. Sections on past, traditional life, flora and fauna and present-day Arabia covers everything from culture to natural history and packs in color photos and illustrations. A gorgeous presentation promising to reach a wide age range.

The Children's Encyclopaedia of Arabia is an excellent introduction to the human history of the Peninsula and the environmental diversity of its plants, animals and marine life. With countless photographs and illustrations to accompany a richly written text, it clearly discusses a myriad of subjects from Bronze Age tombs in Oman to the 1000 foot tall, sail-shaped Burj al-Arab building in modern Dubai. Ranging from the clever techniques of Bedouin weaving to the adaptive characteristics that allow desert mammals like camels,or even small foxes, to survive in the Rub' al-Khali, this is certainly the most engrossing encyclopedia that anyone generally interested in Arabia is likely to encounter.

If you have ever worked or lived in this "Island of the Arabs," Mary Beardwood's book is an ideal vehicle for sharing your experiences with that youngster in your life who asks, "What was it like in Arabia?" And even if you don't know any youngsters, although it is entitled a "Children's Encyclopedia," this beautifully produced volume is packed with so much valuable information about so many diverse subjects that it is guaranteed to fascinate any reader of any age - from cover to cover.

This vividly illustrated volume by a teacher with nearly a quarter-century of experience on the Arabian Peninsula is a delight for children and young adults to peruse alone or with parents. The history, culture, plants and animals of the region are brought to life in a pleasing format certain to engross young readers, and perhaps deliver a surprise or two to adults who thought they knew it all. (MA02)

The cover of this beautiful book says it all: an ancient mosque and a modern skyscraper, camels resting in the desert and a "camel crossing" sign standing by a highway. Mary Beardwood has created a tapestry of gorgeous photos, drawings and text that covers Arabia from ancient times to the 21st Century. The topics include ancient archaeology and architecture; the traditional Arabic economy based on dates and pearls, and customs like falconry and horse breeding; the unique plants and animals adapted to life in the desert; the discovery of oil and the rise of modern cities like Dubai and Muscat. These topics will capture the interest of any intelligent child or curious adult. At a time when violence and suspicion mark the relationship between Arabs and Americans, there is no better remedy than this book. It offers a genuine moment of cross-cultural understanding.

I highly recommend this book! It is a wonderful Christian
romance novel. I'd give it ten stars if I could!

Chosen is a compelling book. I agree with the other ratings above. One comment I would like to see brought out is that Alexsana, the main female chararcter, often acts on her own instinct. Like most humans, she sometimes puts her decisions before the Lord...and at other times, just acts on her own judgement. She often ignores the counsel of Godly friends. She pays a price for this. Let's admire Alexsana, but look at her realistically. I highly recommend this book. It will stay on my shelf for years to come.

This is a great story all about chosing between the work you love, and the man you can't live without. It really gave me a good idea about what the people in Jerusalem are feeling. This book has got it all- romance, politics, and religion. And it's SO real! A must read!

Choosen incorporates the best of all areas of reading into one wonderful story. Religion, romance, and politics all come together producing a story like none other. Choosen discribes the Holy lands like a tour guide would, and correctly assesses the political turmoil the people there are experienceing. Choosen places fiction in the center of fact and weaves a tale so believable that one would expect it to appear on the news. From cover to cover an exelent story

As a Pagan, I find it puzzling to see the beginnings of alliances between many Christian fundamentalists and Jewish liberals. And I find it even more puzzling to see the beginnings of alliances between many Muslim fundamentalists and Christian liberals. What's up with that? This book helps explain it.

First, the Christian fundamentalists and the Jewish liberals. Traditionally, Jewish liberals have been suspicious of Christian fundamentalists for many reasons: the most vocal Christians have generally defamed Jews, encouraged anti-Jewish violence, and engaged in missionary work that Jews have reacted very negatively to. In addition, views on social issues such as abortion, school prayer, and gay rights have generally been very different among these two groups. And Christian fundamentalists have been suspicious of Jewish liberals for some of the same reasons: differences on social issues as well as the hostility that they see on the Jewish side.

Why is it becoming different now? The author explains that it is because both sides see a need to defend Israel. I think that explains part of it. But I think he overlooked something even more important: both the Christians and Jews are siding with Israel for the same reasons. That is, the constant Arab lies, the United Nations and European Union support for Arab terror, and the dishonesty of many in the media have angered both groups in the same way. And even upon further reflection, they both still see all these problems as serious threats to society as a whole.

That's the easy part.

The tough question, which Merkley answers superbly, is why we're seeing an alliance between Christian liberals and Muslim fundamentalists. Merkley shows that it goes far beyond any need to attack Israel.

The two groups are strange bedfellows indeed. They have different religions, and their attitudes towards religion are very different. One group has mostly liberal values while the other is reactionary and intolerant. Historically, they have the legacy of Muslim invasions of Europe, the Crusades, and European colonialism. Why would liberal Christians support those who favor slavery, terrorism, totalitarianism, irredentism, mistreatment of Women, and intolerance of the rights of others in general? Why would fundamentalist Muslims even seek or accept such support?

It certainly isn't any rational need to oppose Israeli behavior. As the author points out, "Israel's offence follows from the nature of Islam." This alliance is the result of three factors: Muslim offence at the existence of Jewish rights in Israel, Muslim pressure on the Christians of the Middle East, and long-standing contempt of Judaism by more than a few Western Christians.

Merkley shows that the effect of all this has been devastating to the Christians of the Middle East. The majority have fled the area. Most of those who have stayed have done so either because they supported Muslim terror against the Jews or because they were pressured into tolerating it. This has poisoned their relations with the Israeli Jews while not raising their esteem in the eyes of Arab Muslims.

Merkley is at his best when he documents the reactions of all sorts of diverse Christian groups to the State of Israel. I strongly recommend this book. And if you want more, read Bat Ye'or's book on Islam and Dhimmitude next.

This book documents how liberal Protestants in the U.S. who have reworked their theology regarding the Jewish people have allowed the prophetic voices of their churches to be hi-jacked by groups like Sabeel and the Middle East Council of Churches and other church institutions that have embraced what can be politely described as a Judeophobic agenda. These institutions have portrayed Israel's efforts to defend itself against enemies intent on destroying it as a Jewish assault on Christian sensibilities and the mainline churches cooperate in broadcasting this narrative. Merkley offers enormously valuable background and history to the conflict. It also provides insight into how putatively progressive Christians have remained silent about the the mistreatment of religious and ethnic minorities in the Middle East. A hugely important book that has not gotten enough attention. A must read for this interested in understanding Christian anti-Zionism.

This absorbing work follows on from Merkley's 1998 masterpiece The Politics of Christian Zionism 1891-1948. He believes Christian attitudes to Israel derive from deeply held theological persuasions that ought to be considered in the historical context of Christianity, Judaism and Islam. The first part reviews the historical elements that have always been present in Christian attitudes towards Judaism whilst the main body reveals the wide variety of Christian voices worldwide and particularly in the Middle East. Finally, he examines different Christian institutions and their theological and political relations to the Middle East. His arguments derive from verifiable facts and evidence based on the official literature of churches and organizations as well as interviews with spokespeople of the aforementioned and of the State of Israel and the Palestinian authority. Merkley engages boldly and wittily with this arsenal of fact and opinion, unafraid to take a stand, speak his mind and make a case for Israel.

He chronicles the development of the attitudes of different strands of Christianity, including the Catholic and mainstream Protestant churches on the one hand versus Evangelicals on the other, whilst acknowledging that significant numbers of individuals in the first two groups hold personal convictions that correspond more closely with the second. Approved by the United Nations, the establishment of Israel in 1948 occurred in an environment of worldwide approval but even then there were opposing voices. These came from Protestant missionary groups in the Middle East as well as anti-Zionist Jewish organizations in the USA. Soon after the rebirth, the Catholic and mainstream Protestant churches started to shift to a critical stance. Formed a few weeks after this historic event, the World Council of Churches has a long history of enmity to the Jewish state. As the war clouds were gathering in 1967, the WCC remained quiet about the Arab World's bellicose rhetoric and threats of genocide. But immediately after Israel's resounding victory, it pounced with a sanctimonious condemnation of violence.

Since then, the WCC has become notorious for parroting Arab and UN propaganda, culminating in its participation in the hate-fest at the 2001 UN Conference on Racism in Durban. Merkley lucidly exposes the reptile tongue of the WCC and the mass media, demonstrating the similarities with the anti-Semitic propaganda of the Nazis. He argues that the leaders of the WCC are a militant ecumenical elite far removed from the essence of theology and fully committed to political causes. He contends that Christian anti-Zionism is not just a form of generic anti-Zionism but that it draws from the same theological roots as the medieval European blood libels. In this regard, see also The Resurgence of Anti-Semitism by Bernard Harrison. The Christian Left seeks to appease radical Muslim opinion about the existence of Israel, as liberal churches have allied themselves with a movement with which they have nothing in common. Merkley does not pretend to believe in either the meme of the religion of peace or the willingness of Israel's neighbors to live in peace with it. See Peace: The Arabian Caricature of Anti-Semitic Imagery to understand why.

As anti-Zionism gained momentum in the 1970s, more individuals with different convictions started leaving those churches as is evident from the declining membership of the mainstream denominations. And Christians Zionists became actively involved in the support of Israel and her people in the Diaspora. Those of a theologically more conservative disposition have shown themselves to be steadfast and loyal friends of the Jewish State. Organizations like the Christian Embassy in Jerusalem, Bridges for Peace, Christian Friends of Israel, the International Christian Zionist Center and CUFI are devoted to the welfare of the country by means of practical and political assistance. Chapter seven provides interesting information on the institutional variety of and theologies of Christian Zionism. Please note that most of them avoid proselytizing. Standing With Israel by David Brog is an informative read on the history and current composition of the movement whilst In Defense of Israel by John Hagee and Future Israel: Why Christian Anti-Judaism Must Be Challenged by Barry Horner explain the theological motivation.

Merkley is uncertain whether the mainstream churches will move further in the direction of what he calls neo-Marcionism (See Lost Christianities by Bart Ehrman for an explanation) in order to appeal to secular liberals, Islam and the Eastern churches or whether it will attempt Jewish-Christian reconciliation. On the Protestant side the signs are not promising with their divestment attempts, while things look more ambiguous in the Roman church in view of the militant rhetoric of Michel Sabbah, Archbishop of Jerusalem. Besides obvious reasons for standing with Israel like its adherence to the rule of law, commendable record of respecting the holy places of all religions, astonishing cultural and technological accomplishments and uninterrupted record of democracy, there is another reason why Christian Zionists are loyal to the Jewish state. It is, like the attitude of the other churches, rooted in theology, but quite overtly based on scripture. To its Christian friends, the rebirth of Israel represents the major miracle of the 20th century. It is a requirement of faith to seek the blessing of Israel above all other considerations; the existence of Israel is considered crucial to the survival of our Judeo-Christian civilization.

Among the valuable contributions of this illuminating work is the refutation of myths, false perceptions and stereotypes fabricated by the mass media. As already mentioned, many Christian Zionist organizations have a strict policy of not seeking converts. They are not all fundamentalists or biblical literalists nor do they profess to know the sequence of events that will lead to the return of Messiah, and least of all do they want the Jewish people to suffer any more than they already have. Merkley provides abundant evidence that anti-Zionism flourishes on the Christian Left today, but further proof is available in The New Anti-Semitism by Chesler and The Deadliest Lies by Foxman. I highly recommend Christian Attitudes toward the State of Israel to all who wish to understand what is happening in this world of lengthening shadows. The book includes notes, a bibliography, references and an index.

I can't say enough good things about this book. In fact, I am going to buy several copies to give to friends, both Christian and Jewish. I'd like to give it to liberal Protestant friends, but sadly, having read the book I am older and wiser about the deep roots of liberal Protestant hostility to Israel (and Jews).

I found the background on the World Council of Churches, the Vatican, and the Evangelicals really fascinating. Merkley is wonderfully frank and honest about difficult topics. I found him a trustworthy reporter. At times his exasperation shows, but on the whole he shows an admirable restraint.

This book helped me understand some unpleasant interchanges I've had with people in my own community, for example the Presbyterian minister and the socially elite lady who works with Protestant missions in "Palestine." I have been deeply disturbed by their moral indifference to Jewish life (the minister) and outright anti-semitic slurs (the rich mission lady.) It is always helpful to be able to put personal experiences like this in a larger political/historical context and understand them at a deeper level.

On a happier note, Merkley gave me information I did not know about the theology and policies of the main Evangelical groups. I was especially interested to learn that the often repeated comment they are only helping Israel so that all the Jews will be killed in Armageddon is actually a lie promulgated by anti-Israeli Christians eager to alienate Jews from their one group of dependable support (Merkley says this in a much more measured way, but that's the nub). I have to say this also fits my personal experience - the several evangelicals I have talked to in my community have only quoted Bible about 'those that bless you shall be blessed, those that curse you shall be cursed' in explaining why they think supporting Israel is a good idea (in both senses of the word 'good.')

I feel very grateful to Merkley for this book and I only wish it were more widely read.

haven't read the book yet, but the guy's my teacher at school right now ^^

I absolutely had a blast while reading this book!!! I started reading this book, and 5 orgasms later I was done. The pages got a little sticky but I persisted my intense reading. The information containted in this book was LIFE ALTERING, hence the title of my review. I learned so much about the collapse of Middle East Peace that I have been motivated to join several fund raisers that help the people in this unfortunate situation. Thank you for the new view on life....and the orgasms!!!

I am a very smart 12 year old, and Mr. Deeb's book has gotten me HOOKED on Isreal!!!!!! he has become my new hero and i think that everyone should read this book!!! it covers in depth the conflict in the middle east, and mr deebs insigtht is unbelievable!!! i have deveoloped a Dennis J. Deeb obsession...if anyone wants to make a fan club, let me know!!!!

Mr. Deeb's book is a quick, but extremely informative, read. It is an absolute must for anyone trying to understand the root causes of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict in the Middle East. It is written in every-day language so it is easy to understand. THE COLLPASE OF MIDDLE EAST PEACE is thoroughly documented and explains fully why the Peace Process between the Israelis and Palestinians that began in 1991 have resulted in failure. Finally, the book gives readers a clear understanding of the important issues needing to be resolved between the two sides.

The Gulf War took place right after I graduated from high school so frankly I just wasn't paying attention when it happened. When we sent troops back in 2003, I was frustrated by how little I really knew. Listening to the news was confusing. This book provides a chronological look at the Gulf War and why "we're back". Even if you've been paying attention, there quite a bit of history to be learned in this book.

If you can only own one book on Operation Desert Storm, make it this one. Jaco (remember him from CNN?) does a great job giving us the inside scoop on the real story behind the Gulf War. He also does a superb job of connecting the dots between Desert Storm and September 11th. The style is breezy but not condescending. Great up-close battle sequences, as well as historical perspective, and the links between 1991 and the War on Terrorism. Lousy title, great book

If you only have one book on your shelf about Operation Desert Storm, make this the one! Jaco (remember him from CNN?) does a wonderful job with the inside scoop on the war. But in the last 1/4 of the book, he really shines by "connecting the dots" between the remnants of the Gulf War and September 11th. Ever wonder why "they hate us?" Then get this book and read it. I picked it up quite by accident, even with the lousy title, and just kept on reading. It's an antidote to over-simplified explanations about the Gulf and the War on terrorism.

Charles Jaco, who covered the Gulf War in person while working for CNN, has crafted a simple but solid introduction to the war. This is the book to start with if you want to quickly review the main points of that conflict. However, I have a big caveat-no maps. Anywhere. No where in the entire book is there a map of Iraq, Kuwait, or even a regional one of the Middle East. I understand that the Idiot's and Dummies series are designed to bring the casual reader up to speed on a topic quickly, but in this instance, the topic is heavily dependent on geography. To not have at least one basic map of the Iraq/Kuwait area is unthinkable. Basic treatment of the topic really requires several maps, one of the larger region, and then at least a few more detailed ones. It is extremely hard to make connections between the military movements described in the text without a map for orientation. This seriously detracts from the quality of the book. Unless one is a geography guru already, the book must be read with access to a good map that you've managed to obtain from somewhere else. I give the item 4 stars due to the text, but functionally, this work is really lacking without some maps. Any upcoming editions, if published, really need to think about addressing this problem.