Book Review: Encounters with the Middle East
Photo Credit: Traveler’s Tales
In this compilation of true travel stories edited by Nesreen Khashan and Jim Bowman, you will receive a well rounded and accurate peek into Middle Eastern culture from the Western perspective.
Whether you are exposed to the possibly unconsidered perks of arranged marriages in The Promise Coffee, a young archeology student’s love affair with Lebanon in Key to the City, or the hilarity of learning a language on the street in Shlonak, this book will give you an honest take on regional travel. Other essays that caught my attention? Confessions of a Water Pipe Smoker, and Bread.
As someone who has lived and traveled in this region extensively, I can definitely vouch for the authentic feel the various essays provide. I also enjoyed the geographical diversity represented in this title, with stories from Yemen, Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, Jordan and Kuwait. An excellent title for lovers of Middle East culture and travel, as well as for anyone considering a trip to the region.
3 comments
After having read Zaatar Days, Henna Nights, I realized that traveling in the Middle East is very doable, even for Americans.
I’m looking forward to reading this, Myscha! I’m sure it’s a fascinating peek into the area that guide books can’t really convey.
It really is much easier than most folks on this side of the pond realize. And so hospitable. The great food, super gold shopping prices and fantastic carpets don’t hurt either. If you like archeological sites, you might consider Turkey, Lebanon or Egypt. I think there are a few cool things in Syria as well. Like the world’s largest crusader castle. We so want to go there.
Syria, that is. We’ve been to many of the others already. It’s such a cool place to go. Oh, and don’t forget Jordan. Rocking country with lots to see.