Understanding Croatia: A Collection of Essays on Croatian Identity

by Božo Skoko

“Božo Skoko has written a book that only a Croat could write, but one that everyone interested in Croatia today should read. He is searingly honest, while determinedly fair-minded, about what is right and wrong in this young state with such unfulfilled potential. He describes what is unique, and often maliciously distorted, in Croatia's historic identity. He examines what is self-destructive and difficult, though also lovable and admirable, in the outlook of its people. Not least, he exposes what is deplorable and inexcusable about the failure of the governing elite to live up to their responsibilities. I hope it may make some of them lose sleep, but I wouldn’t bet on it.”Robin Harris, author and historian

389 pages, Paperback

Published November 1, 2018

Reviews

[Mark Harris · Rating 2 out of 5]

The author of this book is a Croatian nationalist who thinks he is not a nationalist, but instead a “patriot.” He has a naive and antiquated view of history, particularly given to the Great Man theory. His views on ethnic identity are thoroughly 19th century. This book seems a byproduct of the author’s day job as Croatian public relations specialist. It is mainly simplistic Croatian marketing material, with vilification of “venal” left wing Croatian politicians. Not recommended.

[DanijelaaB · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book teaches about two points:
- branding of the county as important topic is well explained with a lots of examples and best practices. Anyone interested in branding of an nation should read it, even if not Croat.
- Croatian mentality, complexity and potential. There are a lot of relevant topics mentioned in a book that can help to understand the nation. Recommend for all Croats in order to learn important facts about themselves and foreigners that would like to travel, work, study or live in Croatia.

[Reid · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting topics but poorly written and edited. The author frequently repeats himself, and there are often no references for his grandiose claims. When a reference is included, the claim is sometimes incorrect (e.g. the author claimed that the website Solopiano.com ranked Matej Meštrović's album as "the best classical music album of all time", when in fact it was actually ranked as the best overall in the year 2016). At times, the essays read like a stream of consciousness and suffer from the absence of clear segues. It's a shame that the writing and editing are so distracting, because the content alone is material for a compelling book.

The author's main message is that of Croatian political ineptitude and the inability of Croatia to promote a global brand. As the title implies, the author succeeds in helping one "Understand Croatia" but only through the lens of politics and marketing/branding.

[Jeremy Thomson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting exposure to different aspects of Croatia, political and historical included. Alot of emphasis regarding mistakes made, maybe too much. Also serves as a guide book on how to promote the country. The style of some of the writing reminds me of my university essays. Not surprising as it's written by a university lecturer who shows to be well researched and knowledgeable.