Turkmenistan: Strategies of Power, Dilemmas of Development: Strategies of Power, Dilemmas of Development

by Sébastien Peyrouse

This book is the first comprehensive introduction to contemporary Turkmenistan in English.

Genres: History

264 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2011

Reviews

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you do not know much about Turkmenistan, do not be alarmed, most people have no idea about the country either. Though more of an academic book, it does take you through the modern history of the country, and gives you context to the ever changing face of Caspian Sea dynamics, and Central Asian energy discussions.
If you are interested in Central Asia, oil, politics, Iran, Caspian Sea, Chinese development this is a great book to read. Maybe the best book, in English, that I have read on Turkmenistan.
If you are not interested in any of those topics, do not read. You will find it monotonous and will probably stop caring about different aspects he writes about (which is wide and copious).

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book offers a comprehensive look at Turkmenistan. It includes the history of the country, it's current (as of 2012) political status, and it's place in the international order. Peyrouse details how the Niyazov regime severely limited the prospects for the country, and speculates on what changes Berdymukhammedov would have long-term (which of course was not nearly as significant as first suggested). It is probably the most comprehensive overview of Turkmenistan available in English as of its publication, and a worthwhile book for anyone looking to get a detailed look at the country.

[Arjun · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well explained, initially I was scared it would be more akin to text book but this was definetly not the case. The book however assumes you have some knowledge in Soviet history and geography and I had to look up many events and had to often refer to maps.

[Marley Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not the most riveting read, but it gives a good, general overview of Turkmenistan up to 2006.