In Search of Iraq: From Baghdad to Babylon

by Richard Downes

From 1998 until the chaotic aftermath of the American-led invasion in 2003, Irish news reporter Richard Downes witnessed first hand the incredible changes that engulfed Iraq.In Search of Iraq is not just an account of a nation’s suffering as it moved from dictatorship to foreign occupation and guerrilla warfare, it focuses on the humane side normally neglected in the ordinary men, women and children – their customs, religion, culture and historical diversity. Downes’ account goes beyond the daily distilled news reports seen by the Western World. Its unflinching focus on the humanity of those involved reveals the true horror and impact of war, as well as the friendships that can blossom in a country torn to shreds.

Genres: History

330 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this first hand account of life in Iraq as seen by Irish journalist and reporter Richard Downes both before and after the US invasion of 2003. Through interviews and casual discussions with Iraqis from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds you get a real sense of what life was life for the average Iraqi under the Saddam Hussein regime and also of the chaos that followed the US intervention. The author also gives some of the important historical background to the recent conflicts which allows the reader to place the recent violence and upheaval within a larger Middle East context. Well written and very accessible, I highly recommend this book!