Book recommendations
Six Days by Jeremy Bowen
This book is an extremely thorough account of the 1967 war in the Middle East. As a journalist, he goes into extreme detail, never missing out an important detail. This book gives a great understanding of how they got to the situation in the Middle East at the minute (although for a full account, you need to read the Old Testemant, Qu'ran, books on the crusades, mass conversions, centuries of wars etc. This book tells how the specific land allocations exist, not the long-standing feud). Although J.B. works for the BBC, it is a very impartial book. It makes for good reading, and if you are interested in current affairs, this book certainly gives you a good background. Next time something is in the news about it, you can say, "Hmm. I know about this. It's 'cos of 1967" and so on...Enjoy.
Imperium by Robert Harris
Despite the fact that MGShistory.org has already recommended a historical fiction novel, I am recommending this one because it is so brilliant. Even Shakespeare woud be proud. Perhaps not.
This book is about Cicero, a Roman senator, as the Roman empire neared its fall and the rise of Julius Ceasar. After some previous historical fiction by Harris (Enigma, Fatherland, Pompeii and Archangel), this book is at the height of Harris' brilliance. He really shines with this novel, and the twists and turns of the book demonstrate why he is such a successful author. Cicero was, perhaps, the greatest orator ever to live, but as I was not around then I cannot make that judgment. Harris certainly manages to persuade the reader as such. A truly gripping read, and I could not put it down at all. Firmly recommended.
Churchill's Hour by Michael Dobbs
This book mixes fiction with historical truths. It is remarkably accurate for a book that still has a significant aspect of fiction in. Dobbs manages to weave a story that many would not even begin to perceive, and his remarkable telling capacity really makes this a worthwhile read. The mix of stories makes this book excellent: the tale of Averell Harriman and Churchill's daughter-in-law Pamela, with the worldwide issues and Churchill's relationship with Roosevelt makes this book not just a brilliant history, but a very enjoyable novel too. Firmly recommended (especially for those who find non-fiction too heavy).
