Bedouin: Nomads of the Desert

by Alan Keohane

The Bedu people have lived for centuries in the inhospitable deserts of the Middle East, but now their culture and way of life is under threat by modern life. Alan Keohane has spent many years travelling with Bedu tribes in the Middle East and in this compelling photographic record, he pays tribute to the ancient tribal customs that still survive among those who continue their annual journey across the desert plains. Above all, "Bedouin" is a photographic portrait of a people whose life is rich in colour and culture. Its testimony will ensure that the Bedu and their ancient, determined lifestyle are not forgotten.

173 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1991

Reviews

[Michael O'Brien · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book. It provides great information on the customs, culture, history, language, and arts of this mysterious people of the great deserts. The photos are breathtaking and beautiful, and it was rewarding getting a glimpse of the lives of the Bedouin that dispel the ignorant stereotypes in the West about them. I truly don't think that one can really fully understand Arab culture without having some understanding of its Bedouin roots. For many Arabs, I think that the Bedu hold a place in the Arab imagination analogous to that of cowboys for Americans or Cossacks for Russians ---- a rough, free, tough people who live life on their own terms and have their own strong sense of honor and courage. In short, a great read for anyone looking to learn more about the original inhabitants of the great empty places of the Middle East.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very approachable book with informative text and great accompanying photos. Keohane mixes his first-hand experiences with the Bedu and information gathered from other reading (bibliography provided). Blessedly brief coverage of all aspects of Bedu life from the large scale to the small: culture, craft, poetry, social lives, geography, etc.