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Our Last Best Chance: The Pursuit of Peace in a Time of Peril
A newsbreaking memoir that tackles head-on the toughest challenge in the world today.
When a dying King Hussein shocked the world by picking his son rather than his brother, the longtime crown prince, to be the next king of Jordan, no one was more surprised than the young head of Special Operations, who discovered his life was in for a major upheaval.
This is the inspirational story of a young prince who went to boarding school in America and military academy in Britain and grew up believing he would be a soldier. Back home, he hunted down terrorists and modernized Jordan's Special Forces. Then, suddenly, he found himself king. Together with his wife, Queen Rania, he transformed what it meant to be a monarch, going undercover to escape the bubble of the court while she became the Muslim world's most passionate advocate of women's rights.
In this exceptionally candid memoir, King Abdullah tackles the single toughest issue he faces head-on- how to solve the Israeli-Palestinian standoff- and reveals himself to be an invaluable intermediary between America and the Arab world. He writes about the impact of the Iraq war on his neighborhood and how best to tackle Iran's nuclear ambitions.
Why would a sitting head of state choose to write about the most explosive issues he faces? King Abdullah does so now because he believes we face a moment of a last chance for peace in the Middle East. The prize is enormous, the cost of failure far greater than we dare imagine.
When a dying King Hussein shocked the world by picking his son rather than his brother, the longtime crown prince, to be the next king of Jordan, no one was more surprised than the young head of Special Operations, who discovered his life was in for a major upheaval.
This is the inspirational story of a young prince who went to boarding school in America and military academy in Britain and grew up believing he would be a soldier. Back home, he hunted down terrorists and modernized Jordan's Special Forces. Then, suddenly, he found himself king. Together with his wife, Queen Rania, he transformed what it meant to be a monarch, going undercover to escape the bubble of the court while she became the Muslim world's most passionate advocate of women's rights.
In this exceptionally candid memoir, King Abdullah tackles the single toughest issue he faces head-on- how to solve the Israeli-Palestinian standoff- and reveals himself to be an invaluable intermediary between America and the Arab world. He writes about the impact of the Iraq war on his neighborhood and how best to tackle Iran's nuclear ambitions.
Why would a sitting head of state choose to write about the most explosive issues he faces? King Abdullah does so now because he believes we face a moment of a last chance for peace in the Middle East. The prize is enormous, the cost of failure far greater than we dare imagine.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published February 22, 2011
127 people are currently reading
1465 people want to read
About the author
Abdullah II of Jordan
2 books49 followers(Arabic: عبدالله الثاني بن الحسين)
The 41st-generation direct descendant of the Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him), His Majesty King Abdullah II assumed his constitutional powers as monarch on 7 February 1999.
Following the leadership legacy of his father, the late King Hussein, King Abdullah has made the welfare of Jordan’s people the cornerstone of his policies for national development, regional peace and global coexistence. The King’s special concern for the future of Jordan’s young people has put youth engagement, education and opportunity at the top of his agenda. At home, he has paired economic reforms with political liberalisation and an innovative program of national development. He has overseen sweeping educational reforms, which today are energising Jordan's private sector and preparing Jordan's youth for global competitiveness and leadership.
To provide real solutions to Jordan’s pressing economic needs, King Abdullah ushered in a new era of structural reform and modernisation, integration with the world economy and globalisation. The King has worked to bring together the public and private sectors – both domestic and global – through large-scale joint initiatives aimed at meeting the urgent challenges of job creation, opportunity for Jordan's young population and poverty alleviation. King Abdullah personally championed Jordan's accession to the World Trade Organisation, presided over Jordan’s becoming the first Arab country to sign a free trade agreement with the United States and has forged new bilateral and multilateral economic alliances with countries from Asia to Latin America.
In diplomatic affairs, King Abdullah has been the voice of Jordan’s progressive policies to expand global justice and cooperation. Taking up the historical role of the Hashemite Family, he has championed the rights, achievements and values of Muslims worldwide. In 2004, he worked with leading Islamic scholars to release the Amman Message, reaching a global audience with Islam's guiding principles of peace, tolerance and dialogue among faiths.
In the footsteps of the late King Hussein, King Abdullah renewed a firm commitment to peace in the region on the basis of the two-state solution and the establishment of a viable, independent and geographically contiguous Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, living in peace alongside Israel, in accordance with UN resolutions and the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative.
King Abdullah is the eldest son of His Majesty King Hussein Bin Talal (1935-1999) and Her Royal Highness Princess Muna Al Hussein. Born in Amman on 30 January 1962, he is the namesake of King Abdullah I, his great-grandfather, the founder of modern Jordan.
King Abdullah began his education at the Islamic Educational College in Amman. He later attended St. Edmund's School in Surrey, England, and concluded his high school education at Deerfield Academy in the United States. Later, he pursued advanced studies at Pembroke College, Oxford, and Georgetown University.
The young prince was a man of action on the athletic field and the training ground. In 1980, he enrolled in the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst (UK) and was commissioned as second lieutenant in 1981. He served in the British Army in the 13/18th Royal Hussars Regiment, with duties as a reconnaissance troop leader in the United Kingdom and Germany.
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The 41st-generation direct descendant of the Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him), His Majesty King Abdullah II assumed his constitutional powers as monarch on 7 February 1999.
Following the leadership legacy of his father, the late King Hussein, King Abdullah has made the welfare of Jordan’s people the cornerstone of his policies for national development, regional peace and global coexistence. The King’s special concern for the future of Jordan’s young people has put youth engagement, education and opportunity at the top of his agenda. At home, he has paired economic reforms with political liberalisation and an innovative program of national development. He has overseen sweeping educational reforms, which today are energising Jordan's private sector and preparing Jordan's youth for global competitiveness and leadership.
To provide real solutions to Jordan’s pressing economic needs, King Abdullah ushered in a new era of structural reform and modernisation, integration with the world economy and globalisation. The King has worked to bring together the public and private sectors – both domestic and global – through large-scale joint initiatives aimed at meeting the urgent challenges of job creation, opportunity for Jordan's young population and poverty alleviation. King Abdullah personally championed Jordan's accession to the World Trade Organisation, presided over Jordan’s becoming the first Arab country to sign a free trade agreement with the United States and has forged new bilateral and multilateral economic alliances with countries from Asia to Latin America.
In diplomatic affairs, King Abdullah has been the voice of Jordan’s progressive policies to expand global justice and cooperation. Taking up the historical role of the Hashemite Family, he has championed the rights, achievements and values of Muslims worldwide. In 2004, he worked with leading Islamic scholars to release the Amman Message, reaching a global audience with Islam's guiding principles of peace, tolerance and dialogue among faiths.
In the footsteps of the late King Hussein, King Abdullah renewed a firm commitment to peace in the region on the basis of the two-state solution and the establishment of a viable, independent and geographically contiguous Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, living in peace alongside Israel, in accordance with UN resolutions and the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative.
King Abdullah is the eldest son of His Majesty King Hussein Bin Talal (1935-1999) and Her Royal Highness Princess Muna Al Hussein. Born in Amman on 30 January 1962, he is the namesake of King Abdullah I, his great-grandfather, the founder of modern Jordan.
King Abdullah began his education at the Islamic Educational College in Amman. He later attended St. Edmund's School in Surrey, England, and concluded his high school education at Deerfield Academy in the United States. Later, he pursued advanced studies at Pembroke College, Oxford, and Georgetown University.
The young prince was a man of action on the athletic field and the training ground. In 1980, he enrolled in the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst (UK) and was commissioned as second lieutenant in 1981. He served in the British Army in the 13/18th Royal Hussars Regiment, with duties as a reconnaissance troop leader in the United Kingdom and Germany.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
March 24, 2011
I have a hard time placing this book & evaluating it for multiple reasons. But the most important reason is: As a proud Jordanian reading a book that is written by the King of my country, I find it strange that the book was written for a specific target audience; The American Citizens! Secondly, although the book has been in the process of authoring, editing, publishing for two years now, the timing in which it was published couldn't be more off! Especially with the current events that are forever changing the dynamics of the region (in a direction that is yet to be known).
As for the book and information within it... The book in its majority is well-written. Especially the history recitation parts. Despite of the fact that the events and history was well represented, several important pieces and important events were left out, sometimes leaving big pieces of the picture, specifically in the 1948 events, the 1970s events in Amman & PLO, and of course the first Gulf war. But you can still get a good representation of the relevant parts of the issue at hand, the Arab-Israeli dispute.
There are big issues and rumors concerning the royal family that could have been addressed (either defeated, or at least explained) but those issues were not even brought up, but then again, the book was not meant for the region, let alone the people of the country.
However, I do believe that the proposed peace solution (that was first championed by the late Kind Hussein) and now undertaken by Kind Abdullah II does represent the last best chance of a just and comprehensive peace in the region politically speaking.
Unlike other books of the same genre that I usually never finish, and don't enjoy reading. HM book is what I consider light reading,,, easy flow, simple language, not too many references to political jargon, and presents more facts than imposing opinions.
I do believe that people of the region should read it (I know there's an Arabic version of it) and maybe, just maybe, this young King can champion what we all ache for!
As for the book and information within it... The book in its majority is well-written. Especially the history recitation parts. Despite of the fact that the events and history was well represented, several important pieces and important events were left out, sometimes leaving big pieces of the picture, specifically in the 1948 events, the 1970s events in Amman & PLO, and of course the first Gulf war. But you can still get a good representation of the relevant parts of the issue at hand, the Arab-Israeli dispute.
There are big issues and rumors concerning the royal family that could have been addressed (either defeated, or at least explained) but those issues were not even brought up, but then again, the book was not meant for the region, let alone the people of the country.
However, I do believe that the proposed peace solution (that was first championed by the late Kind Hussein) and now undertaken by Kind Abdullah II does represent the last best chance of a just and comprehensive peace in the region politically speaking.
Unlike other books of the same genre that I usually never finish, and don't enjoy reading. HM book is what I consider light reading,,, easy flow, simple language, not too many references to political jargon, and presents more facts than imposing opinions.
I do believe that people of the region should read it (I know there's an Arabic version of it) and maybe, just maybe, this young King can champion what we all ache for!
June 20, 2025
"مشروع صيف ٢٠٢٣ مع قراءات السيرة الشخصية لناس أود أن أعرفهم أو أعرف أكثر عنهم، أو أشخاص أثرت في تاريخ البشرية ولا أعرف عنهم شيئا"
عنوان الكتاب يضع القارئ من البداية في وعي أن السيرة الذاتية للملك عبدالله الثاني ستكون وثيقة الارتباط بقضية السلام في الشرق الأوسط. وقد كان فعلا الكتاب متوازن بين سيرة الملك و تاريخ النزاع الاسرائيلي/ الفلسطيني وآثاره على الأردن والمنطقة بكاملها.
الكتاب أعطاني الفرصة بأسلوب سلس وممتع أن أتعرف على الأردن ملكا، دولة، وشعبا، والوقوف على مجهودات الملكين حسين وابنه عبدالله من بعده في تبني القضية الفلسطينية.
يوضح الملك أيضا من خلال حكيه لحقيقة المواقف الأردنية في بعض القضايا مثل حرب الخليج الأولى والثانية، وبعض المحطات من مسيرة البحث عن السلام مع إسرائيل، التي كان الموقف الأردني فيها مثيرا للجدل وجالبا للمشاكل، ولكن يوضح الملك بواطن الأمور، مشددا على التزام الأردن بالسعي لما فيه مصلحة الأمة العربية حتى لو باتخاذ بعض الخطوات التي قد تبدو خارج السياق.
قرأت الكتاب للتعرف على الملك عبدالله الذي أثار فضولي بعد مشاهدة فيديو له خلال تمرين عسكري تكتيكي مع إبنه، ولكن ما لم أكن أتوقعه أن أخرج من الكتاب بهذا الفهم لتايم لاين المفاوضات الإسرائيلية/ الفلسطينية منذ حرب ٤٨ وحتى العام ٢٠١٠.
تزامن نهاية الكتاب قبل مطلع ٢٠١١ وبداية ما يسمى بالربيع العربي وانقلاب موازين الحكم في العديد من الدول، يجعل منه شاهدا على مرحلة من التاريخ العربي المعاصر، ويجعلني أكثر شغفا بما حدث خلال ال١٣ سنة الماضية من تطورات في القضية الفلسطينية.
لم أشعر خلال قرائتي للكتاب أنه يحاول نسب الفضل كله للملك أو إظهار الأردن بدور المدافع الأول عن القضية الفلسطينية ولكنه توضيح وتوثيق لدور الأردن في الجهد العربي المشترك لدفع عملية السلام.
شرفت بلقائك يا جلالة الملك، وياليتك تجد في نفسك الشغف لكتابة جزء ثاني منه عن الأردن والربيع العربي، وطبعا مستكملا رحلة البحث عن السلام...
محمد متولي
عنوان الكتاب يضع القارئ من البداية في وعي أن السيرة الذاتية للملك عبدالله الثاني ستكون وثيقة الارتباط بقضية السلام في الشرق الأوسط. وقد كان فعلا الكتاب متوازن بين سيرة الملك و تاريخ النزاع الاسرائيلي/ الفلسطيني وآثاره على الأردن والمنطقة بكاملها.
الكتاب أعطاني الفرصة بأسلوب سلس وممتع أن أتعرف على الأردن ملكا، دولة، وشعبا، والوقوف على مجهودات الملكين حسين وابنه عبدالله من بعده في تبني القضية الفلسطينية.
يوضح الملك أيضا من خلال حكيه لحقيقة المواقف الأردنية في بعض القضايا مثل حرب الخليج الأولى والثانية، وبعض المحطات من مسيرة البحث عن السلام مع إسرائيل، التي كان الموقف الأردني فيها مثيرا للجدل وجالبا للمشاكل، ولكن يوضح الملك بواطن الأمور، مشددا على التزام الأردن بالسعي لما فيه مصلحة الأمة العربية حتى لو باتخاذ بعض الخطوات التي قد تبدو خارج السياق.
قرأت الكتاب للتعرف على الملك عبدالله الذي أثار فضولي بعد مشاهدة فيديو له خلال تمرين عسكري تكتيكي مع إبنه، ولكن ما لم أكن أتوقعه أن أخرج من الكتاب بهذا الفهم لتايم لاين المفاوضات الإسرائيلية/ الفلسطينية منذ حرب ٤٨ وحتى العام ٢٠١٠.
تزامن نهاية الكتاب قبل مطلع ٢٠١١ وبداية ما يسمى بالربيع العربي وانقلاب موازين الحكم في العديد من الدول، يجعل منه شاهدا على مرحلة من التاريخ العربي المعاصر، ويجعلني أكثر شغفا بما حدث خلال ال١٣ سنة الماضية من تطورات في القضية الفلسطينية.
لم أشعر خلال قرائتي للكتاب أنه يحاول نسب الفضل كله للملك أو إظهار الأردن بدور المدافع الأول عن القضية الفلسطينية ولكنه توضيح وتوثيق لدور الأردن في الجهد العربي المشترك لدفع عملية السلام.
شرفت بلقائك يا جلالة الملك، وياليتك تجد في نفسك الشغف لكتابة جزء ثاني منه عن الأردن والربيع العربي، وطبعا مستكملا رحلة البحث عن السلام...
محمد متولي
July 22, 2011
A very fascinating look at the Middle East crisis through the eyes of a moderate Arab Muslim. While not endorsing everything he said, I read this book and came away from it with great respect for this man who passionately wants peace between the Arabs and Israelis ... particularly the Palestinian people who live within the borders of present day Israel. He says that at the heart of the crisis in the Middle East between Israel and the Palestinians is the need for a two state solution ... Palestine and Israel living side by side in peace ... with the borders of Israel going back to pre-1967 and Jerusalem being the capital of both states. He strongly believes there will never be peace in the Middle East until this happens. The glaring problem is that Israel will never agree to those two things ... pre-1967 borders and a divided Jerusalem ... and thus the total impasse every time it looks like maybe a step toward peace is possible.
His criticisms of the wars in AFghanistan and Iraq were enlightening also reinforcing some of the same things that Donald Rumsfeld said in his book, Known and Unknown. Even in his criticisms though, King Abdullah II reveals a heart that desires peace for all the people of the Middle East and a deep admiration and affinity for the West. He has a deep love for his family and for his country ... and has done much to bring Jordan to a place where it can compete in the world market of the 21st century.
This book is well worth reading !!
His criticisms of the wars in AFghanistan and Iraq were enlightening also reinforcing some of the same things that Donald Rumsfeld said in his book, Known and Unknown. Even in his criticisms though, King Abdullah II reveals a heart that desires peace for all the people of the Middle East and a deep admiration and affinity for the West. He has a deep love for his family and for his country ... and has done much to bring Jordan to a place where it can compete in the world market of the 21st century.
This book is well worth reading !!
February 20, 2012
للكاتب اسلوب جميل في السرد، فهو يقدم لك تقريراً تفصيلياً بما جرى كأنك تجلس امامه،،
وبنما انقسم الكتاب الى جزئين حياته قبل ان يصبح ملكاً وحياته بعدها، ولكوني اطلعت على كتب كثيرة تتحدث عن الجزئية الأولى وجدت عملية تكرارها مع اضافة بعض التفاصيل من شاهد عيان كإبن الملك شيء جيداً ولكنه غير ممتع.
اعجبني الجزء الثاني أكثر، لأنني لا اعلم عنه الكثير، ساعدني بطريقة ما باعادة ترتيب الاحداث التي عشتها، اعجبتني جزئية الاسلام وكيف تحدث عنه، هذا اعتقد ما يحتاج ان يعرفه الآخر (الغرب) عنا كمسلمين.
عندما تحدث عن السلام واصرارنا المميت على التمسك به، انتابني بعض العجب من تمسكنا اللا مبرر له كون الطرف الآخر لا يبدي البتة اي نية في السلام مهما تغيرت الحكومات الفلسطينية أو الأمريكية، بدت عملية السلام والمفاوضات لاجلها بمثابة جزة تضعها اسرائيل امامنا لتوهمني بالتحرك خارجاً نحو الوطن البديل مستبدلة الفلسطينيين الابناء الاصلاء لهذه البلد بمستوطنات سخيفة تقوم على معاناة ودماء واروح الفلسطينيين.
الكتاب وكونه موجه بالدرجة الأولى للغرب فأعتقد انه كان جيداً في ايصال الصوت وتوضيح الصورة.
وبنما انقسم الكتاب الى جزئين حياته قبل ان يصبح ملكاً وحياته بعدها، ولكوني اطلعت على كتب كثيرة تتحدث عن الجزئية الأولى وجدت عملية تكرارها مع اضافة بعض التفاصيل من شاهد عيان كإبن الملك شيء جيداً ولكنه غير ممتع.
اعجبني الجزء الثاني أكثر، لأنني لا اعلم عنه الكثير، ساعدني بطريقة ما باعادة ترتيب الاحداث التي عشتها، اعجبتني جزئية الاسلام وكيف تحدث عنه، هذا اعتقد ما يحتاج ان يعرفه الآخر (الغرب) عنا كمسلمين.
عندما تحدث عن السلام واصرارنا المميت على التمسك به، انتابني بعض العجب من تمسكنا اللا مبرر له كون الطرف الآخر لا يبدي البتة اي نية في السلام مهما تغيرت الحكومات الفلسطينية أو الأمريكية، بدت عملية السلام والمفاوضات لاجلها بمثابة جزة تضعها اسرائيل امامنا لتوهمني بالتحرك خارجاً نحو الوطن البديل مستبدلة الفلسطينيين الابناء الاصلاء لهذه البلد بمستوطنات سخيفة تقوم على معاناة ودماء واروح الفلسطينيين.
الكتاب وكونه موجه بالدرجة الأولى للغرب فأعتقد انه كان جيداً في ايصال الصوت وتوضيح الصورة.
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March 5, 2024A highly recommended read, even if only to discover the perspectives of one of the key players of the region, this book (written circa 2011) is His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan's memoir and also proposal for peace in the Middle East. In the preface, he lays out a proposal of a two-state solution that both recognizes, affirms and supports the state of Israel, as well as the state for Palestine, according to him, along the pre-1967 border that affirms for Palestine the territory of the West Bank as well as a capital in East Jerusalem. Even as readers may agree or disagree with these specifics, what is still palpable in this book is the kind of daring, courage, and vision it takes to imagine a path to peace. King Abdullah posits that the situation is never an untenable, fundamental clash of religions or civilizations but a tractable territory problem that he wills to imagine can be solved in our time. He goes further, and in the preface imagines a time when the countries of Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine can join forces as an economic coalition and form a regional powerhouse like (as he puts it) "Benelux". At the same time, he does not trivialize the difficult road to peace, such as what was available at the time of the publication (which may be different now, as an understatement). (For example, I've read somewhere that the reason Israel can't accept a border that cuts mid-Jerusalem is fears of greater susceptibility to convulsive attacks there.) Throughout the history of this book, King Abdullah II has remained steadfast and unwavering in his stance of the pre-1967 line that guarantees a state for the Palestinians, while remaining committed to approaching the bargaining table.
King Abdullah speaks with heft because his country and his role has been closely entwined with that of his neighbors. He has operated many times with the sacrifice of compromise and understanding, giving his neighbors many chances. His father engaged with Israel to take the risks to peace, despite launches and volleys of explosions across their shared border to their land. His father also engaged with Arafat and the PLO repeatedly despite an attempt to overthrow him and to target the lives of his retinue. His grandfather was assassinated by a Palestinian extremist, and his realm has taken in a lot of refugees. Thus, both personally and publicly, King Abdullah II has paid the price of war and peace. King Abdullah comes from the Hashemite dynasty that has long stood as guardians of Mecca, and his grandfather was the recipient of the blown British promise about the division of land that would be left to the Arab rule. He shows us history from their eyes, the inroads of deprivation and contestation. He is heir to both the long history of the region as well as the hard attempts at reconciliation, and of course the realities of war.
At the same time, King Abdullah II is head of state of Jordan and in a separate way, this book is worth reading for his candor and sense of humor and openness about the typically esoteric experience of royalty and diplomacy, and the hard tasks of governance and international relations. There are a lot of interesting instances and observations about entrances into guarded sanctums of administrations as varied as Iraq's Saddam Hussein, and North Korea's Kim Il-Sung. The book also discusses his perspectives and beliefs about a lot of things, like religion and the emancipation of women. It is a treat to read an openhanded book by a member of the monarchy, and a leader of the region, an access that is usually not available. He gives at least a little bit of his father's internal reasoning, and his reasoning, in critical moments such as the 1967 Egypt-led invasion, the Iran-Iraq war, the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, including some moments when they didn't agree with key decisions but went along with these. Penning such a book about one's stances, beliefs and perspectives usually opens one to criticism, as he says in the preface but King Abdullah II judged this to be a significant matter, in which time is of the essence, and thus wrote this book.
King Abdullah II wrote a lot of messages and insights in this book, one that stands out is his reminder that this issue will not die out without an actual resolution. Everywhere he goes, young Muslims from Indonesia to Bahrain query him on the status of Palestinians, and the perennial question of what is being done, to give them a home. He opines that while a lot of observers in the world worry about the chaos of terrorism and extremism, what he sees is that this issue has become a banner-call and animating cause of fairness for a lot of ideologues, without which the appeal of a lot of their movements would wither away. Whether one agrees with this deduction or not, it is food for thought.
This is a suggested book to mull over, even if one agrees or disagrees with the contents, for all of us who yearn for a just, stable, fair, and lasting peace for all parties, that they may one day can look to an unbounded future of peace and prosperity.
King Abdullah speaks with heft because his country and his role has been closely entwined with that of his neighbors. He has operated many times with the sacrifice of compromise and understanding, giving his neighbors many chances. His father engaged with Israel to take the risks to peace, despite launches and volleys of explosions across their shared border to their land. His father also engaged with Arafat and the PLO repeatedly despite an attempt to overthrow him and to target the lives of his retinue. His grandfather was assassinated by a Palestinian extremist, and his realm has taken in a lot of refugees. Thus, both personally and publicly, King Abdullah II has paid the price of war and peace. King Abdullah comes from the Hashemite dynasty that has long stood as guardians of Mecca, and his grandfather was the recipient of the blown British promise about the division of land that would be left to the Arab rule. He shows us history from their eyes, the inroads of deprivation and contestation. He is heir to both the long history of the region as well as the hard attempts at reconciliation, and of course the realities of war.
At the same time, King Abdullah II is head of state of Jordan and in a separate way, this book is worth reading for his candor and sense of humor and openness about the typically esoteric experience of royalty and diplomacy, and the hard tasks of governance and international relations. There are a lot of interesting instances and observations about entrances into guarded sanctums of administrations as varied as Iraq's Saddam Hussein, and North Korea's Kim Il-Sung. The book also discusses his perspectives and beliefs about a lot of things, like religion and the emancipation of women. It is a treat to read an openhanded book by a member of the monarchy, and a leader of the region, an access that is usually not available. He gives at least a little bit of his father's internal reasoning, and his reasoning, in critical moments such as the 1967 Egypt-led invasion, the Iran-Iraq war, the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, including some moments when they didn't agree with key decisions but went along with these. Penning such a book about one's stances, beliefs and perspectives usually opens one to criticism, as he says in the preface but King Abdullah II judged this to be a significant matter, in which time is of the essence, and thus wrote this book.
King Abdullah II wrote a lot of messages and insights in this book, one that stands out is his reminder that this issue will not die out without an actual resolution. Everywhere he goes, young Muslims from Indonesia to Bahrain query him on the status of Palestinians, and the perennial question of what is being done, to give them a home. He opines that while a lot of observers in the world worry about the chaos of terrorism and extremism, what he sees is that this issue has become a banner-call and animating cause of fairness for a lot of ideologues, without which the appeal of a lot of their movements would wither away. Whether one agrees with this deduction or not, it is food for thought.
This is a suggested book to mull over, even if one agrees or disagrees with the contents, for all of us who yearn for a just, stable, fair, and lasting peace for all parties, that they may one day can look to an unbounded future of peace and prosperity.
May 24, 2011
It is very well written. I felt as if King Abdullah was sitting next to me talking. I have met him a couple of times so maybe that is why I feel that way. I had a connection with some parts of the book because of the time line and because my son attends King's Academy. It made me feel proud in the part when he mentions going camping the scholars and just sitting and talking. He is so fatherly to these young scholars. I started to cry when he mentioned the tragic loss of one of the scholars. This year my son is in the first graduating class that has attended KA for 4 years.
I am not that knowledgeable on politics. It expanded my knowledge and gave me insight on the frustrations taking place in the peace process. I commend the King Abdullah for his passion to continue the late King Hussein's legacy for peace in Israel.
If you are into politics and want to learn more about the Middle East Crisis and peace process then this is a book you must read.
I am not that knowledgeable on politics. It expanded my knowledge and gave me insight on the frustrations taking place in the peace process. I commend the King Abdullah for his passion to continue the late King Hussein's legacy for peace in Israel.
If you are into politics and want to learn more about the Middle East Crisis and peace process then this is a book you must read.
August 14, 2016
This was an extremely enjoyable book because it really put me at eye-level with important events in the Israel and Arab region. The history really came alive because the author, the present king of Jordan, not only described what happened but also his motivations and feelings. On the other hand, I felt the need to be critical of his opinions. The Israelis (or at least their government, but this distinction was not frequently made) were always cast in a bad light. Their motivations were never explored. Of course, doing so might jeopardize the political position of the author, and it probably comes from a personal bias as well, but because of this obvious gap I was reluctant to take everything he said at face value.
Regardless of how much I believed the author, this book has definitely incited my interest in the region and its conflict, and I plan to delve more into the subject immediately.
Regardless of how much I believed the author, this book has definitely incited my interest in the region and its conflict, and I plan to delve more into the subject immediately.
September 15, 2015
I have just finished reading 'OUR LAST BEST CHANCE The Pursuit of Peace in a Time of Peril' by King Abdullah II of Jordan. Without doubt it is the best non fiction book I've read in a decade.
This is a very special book, a unique insight into a cloistered world of behind closed door negotiations and politics. Extremely well written, informative and, in places very moving, the book is a major force for good in the world and I cannot praise it highly enough. If you believe war is a crime against humanity, you should read this book, if you believe in transparent government, you should read this book, if you believe in equality and equal opportunity, you should read this book, if you believe young people are the future and that education is vital, you should read this book. In fact whatever you believe, if you consider yourself to be a thinker and engaged in the world, you should read this book.
For a head of state to reveal so much is brave indeed and the book seeks to do good on a number of different planes as it discusses women's rights, child abuse and education as well as exploring the peace issue that is its central theme. In fact the proceeds from the book go to fund scholarships enabling talented youngsters of both sexes, from across the Middle East to access an education they could otherwise only dream of, at a school that may well be the best in the entire Arab world.
The author, King Abdullah II comes across as a man I would sincerely like and identify with on a personal level. We share more than a few interests in common, such as parachuting, motor sport classic cars and motorcycles even sailing. After my first visit to the Middle East last year, to Lebanon, Israel, Egypt and Jordan I fell in love with the beauty of the Jordanian desert and was impressed by the hospitality of the Jordanian people, in the true Arab tradition and so I now find that I also share a love of his country with this particular writer. What impressed me the most however was his commence sense approach, his pragmatism coupled with deep thought and understanding of the issues most of us have but a passing knowledge of in the west. I was also impressed by his humanity and his incredible perseverance when the pursuit of such a high goal in such a turbulent neighbourhood is all too daunting and would paralyse a lesser man.
Of course the book could be construed as propaganda and naturally that would be a fair accusation. However, so many books are propaganda, even novels from Dickens, Tolstoy and many others are propaganda. Any book that expresses opinions, seeks in any way to influence is propaganda. Yet propaganda can be for good or evil, can promote truth or falsehood. It seems to me, and although I intend to do some checking I very much trust my gut instinct that this work is honest, well intentioned and a positive work that needs to be disseminated as widely as possible. It undermines those who seek to do evil and bolsters those who seek to do good. If the Goodreads website would allow me to give it six stars rather than five I would do it. I would almost rather people read this book than my own, even though my own first book has a short appendix appealing for a new approach to peace; this work however is a revelation in its entirety.
The book was given to me by a wonderful woman – Gill Addison I thank you from the bottom of my heart. My next action will be to read it again, even making notes this time in order to learn and retain as much from it as I possibly can. I urge you all to buy it, read it and share it. As well as helping a very worthwhile cause you'll enjoy it too, it's not a task to read, it's engaging, revealing and personable.
This is a very special book, a unique insight into a cloistered world of behind closed door negotiations and politics. Extremely well written, informative and, in places very moving, the book is a major force for good in the world and I cannot praise it highly enough. If you believe war is a crime against humanity, you should read this book, if you believe in transparent government, you should read this book, if you believe in equality and equal opportunity, you should read this book, if you believe young people are the future and that education is vital, you should read this book. In fact whatever you believe, if you consider yourself to be a thinker and engaged in the world, you should read this book.
For a head of state to reveal so much is brave indeed and the book seeks to do good on a number of different planes as it discusses women's rights, child abuse and education as well as exploring the peace issue that is its central theme. In fact the proceeds from the book go to fund scholarships enabling talented youngsters of both sexes, from across the Middle East to access an education they could otherwise only dream of, at a school that may well be the best in the entire Arab world.
The author, King Abdullah II comes across as a man I would sincerely like and identify with on a personal level. We share more than a few interests in common, such as parachuting, motor sport classic cars and motorcycles even sailing. After my first visit to the Middle East last year, to Lebanon, Israel, Egypt and Jordan I fell in love with the beauty of the Jordanian desert and was impressed by the hospitality of the Jordanian people, in the true Arab tradition and so I now find that I also share a love of his country with this particular writer. What impressed me the most however was his commence sense approach, his pragmatism coupled with deep thought and understanding of the issues most of us have but a passing knowledge of in the west. I was also impressed by his humanity and his incredible perseverance when the pursuit of such a high goal in such a turbulent neighbourhood is all too daunting and would paralyse a lesser man.
Of course the book could be construed as propaganda and naturally that would be a fair accusation. However, so many books are propaganda, even novels from Dickens, Tolstoy and many others are propaganda. Any book that expresses opinions, seeks in any way to influence is propaganda. Yet propaganda can be for good or evil, can promote truth or falsehood. It seems to me, and although I intend to do some checking I very much trust my gut instinct that this work is honest, well intentioned and a positive work that needs to be disseminated as widely as possible. It undermines those who seek to do evil and bolsters those who seek to do good. If the Goodreads website would allow me to give it six stars rather than five I would do it. I would almost rather people read this book than my own, even though my own first book has a short appendix appealing for a new approach to peace; this work however is a revelation in its entirety.
The book was given to me by a wonderful woman – Gill Addison I thank you from the bottom of my heart. My next action will be to read it again, even making notes this time in order to learn and retain as much from it as I possibly can. I urge you all to buy it, read it and share it. As well as helping a very worthwhile cause you'll enjoy it too, it's not a task to read, it's engaging, revealing and personable.
April 14, 2012
This is part autobiography, part modern history, and a rare insight into the mentality of one of the highly privileged and super rich. It is written in the form of narrative from the point of view of the author who has been King of Jordan from 1999. As implied in the title, much of it revolves around attempts to bring peace to a war ridden part of the world. The author was in his younger days an army officer, and the terse and factual style of the book would match that of a military debriefing. There are no deeper psychological insights. Indeed what is most remarkable about the book is the areas on which there is complete silence. His great unmerited political power is never questioned, nor is the source of his wealth, and he repeatedly unashamedly boasts of his extraordinary largesses. Perhaps his fellow autocrats had the same psychological blindness, for since the completion of the book the "Arab spring" has swept several of them away. There have also been upheavals in Jordan with complaints of corruption in the government, none of which is foreseen in this book.
In his search for peace he projects his opinions, and thus unquestionably in his view those of the people of Jordan, as those of an honest broker who has been often unfairly misunderstood. However right at the end he mentions the view held by some that the Palestinian homeland should be part of Jordan only to immediately dismiss this option. To this reader, who is largely ignorant of the politics of the region, it left a feeling that the author on this topic was a propagandist rather than an even-handed analyst.
In conclusion, as a recent history of this part of the world this book is a good source of original material from a key player in the shaping of events, but it fails to be more than that. As an autobiography it lacks any psychological depth but is an interesting narrative. As an insight into the highly privileged and super rich it strengthens the belief that they hold an unquestioned sense of entitlement.
In his search for peace he projects his opinions, and thus unquestionably in his view those of the people of Jordan, as those of an honest broker who has been often unfairly misunderstood. However right at the end he mentions the view held by some that the Palestinian homeland should be part of Jordan only to immediately dismiss this option. To this reader, who is largely ignorant of the politics of the region, it left a feeling that the author on this topic was a propagandist rather than an even-handed analyst.
In conclusion, as a recent history of this part of the world this book is a good source of original material from a key player in the shaping of events, but it fails to be more than that. As an autobiography it lacks any psychological depth but is an interesting narrative. As an insight into the highly privileged and super rich it strengthens the belief that they hold an unquestioned sense of entitlement.
January 2, 2012
This book has been clearly written for a global audience with special efforts taken to explain the Arab way of life, international relations and history of the Arab- Israeli conflict (hence, an excellent read for people having only an iota of understanding of the Middle East). It is an extremely interesting read with international relations and events being explained in a succinct and simple manner. The initial half part tells his story before being anointed the King showcasing a third party view of the conflict while addressing his personal development. The 2nd part focuses mainly on the peace talks, development of Jordan and his policies on diplomacy. I personally feel it was a brilliant move by the King to give people all over the world a picture of the scenario in the middle east and would enable him to gain a lot of goodwill from citizens of other nations. The book has been written in simple language and in an engaging manner. I feel it is a must read for every individual (a truly exciting book).
I would have given this book more stars (if it was possible) for greatly improving my understanding of the middle eastern crisis. His candid commentary on the various events and his efforts for the peace process and Jordanian development is a testament to the greatness of this King
I would have given this book more stars (if it was possible) for greatly improving my understanding of the middle eastern crisis. His candid commentary on the various events and his efforts for the peace process and Jordanian development is a testament to the greatness of this King
September 4, 2011
Very interesting - background to understanding current and past issues in the Middle East. Recommended. He treads quite softly in passing judgement on other protaganists in the region, including Israelis and the major Arab countries. And understanding that the Hashemites were THE rulers and keepers of the Moslem faith for centuries provides a lot of food for thought. Jordan - which is East of the Jordan River - seems to have been making progress in recent years. How it all fits into the Palestinian Israeli "conflict" is referenced ... but, as he said and as his father King Hussein said many times .... time may be running out.
November 26, 2016
I saw this book referenced in ISIS Exposed, where the author implied that King Abdullah laid out a viable solution to the problem of terrorism in the Middle East. In light of these expectations, this book was not quite that. It is half-autobiography, half argument for the Palestinian position in the Arab-Israeli conflict. All of it is written in verbose language, not nearly as deep or styled as Kissinger's World Order.
It’s said that every man is the hero of his own novel, and King Abdullah is no exception. Many of the people mentioned I had heard of, but prior to reading this book he was not on my radar. So reading his story was a lot like watching Forrest Gump, in that apparently King Abdullah was there, in person, for every single major historical event related to the Middle East in the past 50 years. And not only was he there, but he was always there weeks or months prior, warning everyone of the consequences of their actions.
Remember when Trump adamantly stated that he opposed the war in Iraq before it happened, but only made that assertion after everyone agreed it was a terrible idea? That kind of armchair quarterbacking comes up literally dozens of times for King Abdullah, who always ends up on the right side of history, but to whom apparently nobody listened to. I’m not saying he wasn’t there for all of those historical events, or that he’s making up these statements retroactively to make himself look good. I’m just saying that memory is often more faulty than we assume, and I think if he had been calling those shots so perfectly that somebody would have been paying more attention to him. Like 'hey, this king in Jordan is eight for eight on predicting instability and disasters following regime changes, maybe we should do what he says?' But no such realization occurred, as far as I know.
One of my aims in reading Our Last Best Chance was to begin a study of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Middle Eastern affairs in general. I thought that the King of Jordan, a U.S. ally, would give an insider perspective and lend cultural understanding to a pure Westerner like me. I was wrong; he is extremely biased. He might deny it outright, but his words betray him. The text oozes partiality. On the final page of the book, this one concluding sentence sums up the tone of the entire story: “Israeli policies are mainly to blame for this gloomy reality.”
I found and highlighted many passages illustrating King Abdullah’s preference for Palestine over Israel. Violence perpetrated by Israeli military forces is decried as barbaric, but when it’s Jordanian forces killing Israelis it’s “brave.” He sounds tough when he decides that hitting terrorist groups hiding in other countries is Jordan’s new strategy in the wake of an attack, but he frowns upon the U.S. chasing terrorists across the Atlantic (after 9/11) and Israel preemptively striking its scheming neighbors. He constantly condemns Israeli retaliation after provocation, but says nothing when his own people chant outside the Israeli embassy “Our beloved Saddam, use your chemical weapons on the invaders!” Additionally, any mention of Hamas is as a political party, never as a terrorist organization.
So I want to believe that he has answers, I really do. And I want to be able to understand the Palestinian plight and Israeli grievances before I form my own opinion. But since King Abdullah is so brash in his preference for one side over the other, I have a hard time accepting the fruit of this poisonous tree. The sad part is, he would have an airtight argument if he simply stuck to discussing violations of international law and Israel’s dismissal of numerous UN resolutions. Your Majesty, if you stopped there and didn’t inject your personal disgust for Israel into the narrative, you would’ve had me! But you discredited yourself over and over with poor rhetoric and a clearly vengeful mind.
What lies in store for these two nations then? King Abdullah would have you believe that there is no more hope. "Our Last Best Chance" (as of 2012) is far in the past now, but his own story contradicts that in a big way. Israel and Palestine have approached the idea of peace many times over the last 50 years. And yes, each time they have walked away from it, but with each new elected leader and changes in the geopolitical climate comes a brand new opportunity for successful negotiations, and often the opportunity is better than any before it! Hell, it doesn’t even need to be Palestinian or Israeli leadership; clearly a US party shift can make a huge difference too. There’s no telling what the future has in store in the way of more chances.
I think that he titled this “our last best chance” because King Abdullah can’t imagine peace happening without him. It’s perhaps his last best chance, before he passes on the crown to his son, but it’s not the region’s last chance. As he nears the end of his book and possibly his reign, the desperation and gloom is evident in his writing. And he’s probably not the one who can bring about peace, for the simple reason that he is fixated on only one solution, which boils down to Israel undoing everything that’s happened since 1967 and in return the Arab world will stop antagonizing them.
In the final paragraphs he literally says “there are no alternatives” to his three options (two of which are a grossly hyperbolic false dichotomy). Either A) Israel accepts the Arab League’s demands, which are ipso facto Palestine’s demands; B) a one-state solution where Palestinians gain full political rights and eventually stomp out the Jewish character of the state; or C) a one-state solution where Israel continues to oppress Palestinians in an apartheid state.
Come on King Abdullah, the beauty of negotiations is that there are infinite alternatives in between those. Once you’re resolved that there are “no alternatives,” you become that intolerant stonewalling partner that can’t make peace happen.
It’s said that every man is the hero of his own novel, and King Abdullah is no exception. Many of the people mentioned I had heard of, but prior to reading this book he was not on my radar. So reading his story was a lot like watching Forrest Gump, in that apparently King Abdullah was there, in person, for every single major historical event related to the Middle East in the past 50 years. And not only was he there, but he was always there weeks or months prior, warning everyone of the consequences of their actions.
Remember when Trump adamantly stated that he opposed the war in Iraq before it happened, but only made that assertion after everyone agreed it was a terrible idea? That kind of armchair quarterbacking comes up literally dozens of times for King Abdullah, who always ends up on the right side of history, but to whom apparently nobody listened to. I’m not saying he wasn’t there for all of those historical events, or that he’s making up these statements retroactively to make himself look good. I’m just saying that memory is often more faulty than we assume, and I think if he had been calling those shots so perfectly that somebody would have been paying more attention to him. Like 'hey, this king in Jordan is eight for eight on predicting instability and disasters following regime changes, maybe we should do what he says?' But no such realization occurred, as far as I know.
One of my aims in reading Our Last Best Chance was to begin a study of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Middle Eastern affairs in general. I thought that the King of Jordan, a U.S. ally, would give an insider perspective and lend cultural understanding to a pure Westerner like me. I was wrong; he is extremely biased. He might deny it outright, but his words betray him. The text oozes partiality. On the final page of the book, this one concluding sentence sums up the tone of the entire story: “Israeli policies are mainly to blame for this gloomy reality.”
I found and highlighted many passages illustrating King Abdullah’s preference for Palestine over Israel. Violence perpetrated by Israeli military forces is decried as barbaric, but when it’s Jordanian forces killing Israelis it’s “brave.” He sounds tough when he decides that hitting terrorist groups hiding in other countries is Jordan’s new strategy in the wake of an attack, but he frowns upon the U.S. chasing terrorists across the Atlantic (after 9/11) and Israel preemptively striking its scheming neighbors. He constantly condemns Israeli retaliation after provocation, but says nothing when his own people chant outside the Israeli embassy “Our beloved Saddam, use your chemical weapons on the invaders!” Additionally, any mention of Hamas is as a political party, never as a terrorist organization.
So I want to believe that he has answers, I really do. And I want to be able to understand the Palestinian plight and Israeli grievances before I form my own opinion. But since King Abdullah is so brash in his preference for one side over the other, I have a hard time accepting the fruit of this poisonous tree. The sad part is, he would have an airtight argument if he simply stuck to discussing violations of international law and Israel’s dismissal of numerous UN resolutions. Your Majesty, if you stopped there and didn’t inject your personal disgust for Israel into the narrative, you would’ve had me! But you discredited yourself over and over with poor rhetoric and a clearly vengeful mind.
What lies in store for these two nations then? King Abdullah would have you believe that there is no more hope. "Our Last Best Chance" (as of 2012) is far in the past now, but his own story contradicts that in a big way. Israel and Palestine have approached the idea of peace many times over the last 50 years. And yes, each time they have walked away from it, but with each new elected leader and changes in the geopolitical climate comes a brand new opportunity for successful negotiations, and often the opportunity is better than any before it! Hell, it doesn’t even need to be Palestinian or Israeli leadership; clearly a US party shift can make a huge difference too. There’s no telling what the future has in store in the way of more chances.
I think that he titled this “our last best chance” because King Abdullah can’t imagine peace happening without him. It’s perhaps his last best chance, before he passes on the crown to his son, but it’s not the region’s last chance. As he nears the end of his book and possibly his reign, the desperation and gloom is evident in his writing. And he’s probably not the one who can bring about peace, for the simple reason that he is fixated on only one solution, which boils down to Israel undoing everything that’s happened since 1967 and in return the Arab world will stop antagonizing them.
In the final paragraphs he literally says “there are no alternatives” to his three options (two of which are a grossly hyperbolic false dichotomy). Either A) Israel accepts the Arab League’s demands, which are ipso facto Palestine’s demands; B) a one-state solution where Palestinians gain full political rights and eventually stomp out the Jewish character of the state; or C) a one-state solution where Israel continues to oppress Palestinians in an apartheid state.
Come on King Abdullah, the beauty of negotiations is that there are infinite alternatives in between those. Once you’re resolved that there are “no alternatives,” you become that intolerant stonewalling partner that can’t make peace happen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2018
ليس أكثر قربا لتعرف أحدهم أكثر مماتريد أن تقرأ سيرته الذاتية لطالما كنت أرى انها أكثر مصداقية من المذكرات التي يكتبها المرء عن نفسه ...ولكن في مذكرات جلالة الملك وجدة مصداقية وجرأة في نقل تفاصيل بسيطة في شخصيته مع الحفاظ على مسافة كبيرة من الخصوصية بعيدا عن النقد او لنقل انها مساحة حرية شخصية فبالنهاية هي مذكرات شخصية وليست كتابت يقيمها القارئ... اختلفت ضمنيا في كثير من الامور مع مذكرات الملك .. لكني لا أنكر أنها اشتملت على مذكرات وموسوعة مصغرة لاحداث او تفاصيل احداث لم نسمعها يوما في نشرة الاخبار ... وانا أتوقع ان يكون لها جزء ثاني فالاحداث العربية توالت بشكل متسارع بعد اصدار تلك المذكرات
January 4, 2024
One star for me for finishing the book.
At the end of the book King Abdullah mentions his father's book Uneasy lies the head, which is one of my absolute favorites. Simply incomparable.
I don't know how accurate it is that Jordan is a home for over 1.9 million Palestinian refugees. If you’re quite familiar with the history of Jordan, you know Palestinians/Jordanians of Palestinian origins are over 50% of the population. I don’t think the registered number is of any significance here.
Some parts of the book were interesting, some were just a repetition of facts. I was expecting more to be honest, for him to step out of his father's shadow, but I guess that’s impossible when your father is King Hussein.
I wonder how he sees Jordan now, and how it benefits (according to His majesty ) from Queen Rania's intelligence????? This has nothing to do with her being of Palestinian origins. Alia Touqan was Palestinian too, she was pretty popular as well.
I wonder how King's Academy which resembles Deerfield means that education is for all ,that it is accessible for students from all over the world, including Jordanian students. ( really?)
Zero thank you for Jordanians, who are the backbone of the regime. Some of the names that were “thanked” in this book were absolute kakistocrats like Awadallah and Rifai. 11 years are simply not enough to write a book during which our foreign policy has been going astray because the right man for the right position is never our motto. Not just our foreign policy, but our image as a country with a firm attitude that once was a key player in brokering peace in the middle east. A policy of privatization and taxes, injustice, and kleptocracy.
This is not a detailed review, just my own thoughts on some points, as a Jordanian who struggles like many to prove that there is no such thing as the ''Jordan Option''and yes...it is called a Shmagh, the traditional Jordanian red checkered head scarf.
At the end of the book King Abdullah mentions his father's book Uneasy lies the head, which is one of my absolute favorites. Simply incomparable.
I don't know how accurate it is that Jordan is a home for over 1.9 million Palestinian refugees. If you’re quite familiar with the history of Jordan, you know Palestinians/Jordanians of Palestinian origins are over 50% of the population. I don’t think the registered number is of any significance here.
Some parts of the book were interesting, some were just a repetition of facts. I was expecting more to be honest, for him to step out of his father's shadow, but I guess that’s impossible when your father is King Hussein.
I wonder how he sees Jordan now, and how it benefits (according to His majesty ) from Queen Rania's intelligence????? This has nothing to do with her being of Palestinian origins. Alia Touqan was Palestinian too, she was pretty popular as well.
I wonder how King's Academy which resembles Deerfield means that education is for all ,that it is accessible for students from all over the world, including Jordanian students. ( really?)
Zero thank you for Jordanians, who are the backbone of the regime. Some of the names that were “thanked” in this book were absolute kakistocrats like Awadallah and Rifai. 11 years are simply not enough to write a book during which our foreign policy has been going astray because the right man for the right position is never our motto. Not just our foreign policy, but our image as a country with a firm attitude that once was a key player in brokering peace in the middle east. A policy of privatization and taxes, injustice, and kleptocracy.
This is not a detailed review, just my own thoughts on some points, as a Jordanian who struggles like many to prove that there is no such thing as the ''Jordan Option''and yes...it is called a Shmagh, the traditional Jordanian red checkered head scarf.
September 30, 2016
Highly recommend this book. In it, one gains the perspective of the leader of a small country in a "bad neighborhood" who desperately wants to chart a path toward peace in the Middle East, particularly between Palestine and Israel. King Abdullah II explains how many political challenges in the Middle East are ultimately tied to the critical Palestine/Israel issue, one that he and many others in the region believe requires a two-state solution to achieve a lasting peace. He provides great historical context for the past several decades between Jordan and its neighbors, delineates true Islam from those who appropriate it as cover for bad behavior (terrorism), and gives the reader a glimpse behind the scenes in the development of attempted compromises to gain political solutions in concert with US Presidents Clinton, Bush, and Obama. While the book doesn't have a happy ending where both Israel and Palestine have their own states and live in peace, it is well worth the read to understand a well-informed perspective on one of the most vexing political challenges of our time.
August 15, 2025
if you want an objective understanding of the middle east. this isn't the book, but if you want a sincere account of a world leader's journey in turbulence with a firm belief in peace- this book gives us deep insights to what happens behind all the cacophony. suffice to say, he is an inspirational leader and person
NVM SCRATCH ALL THIS
HHAHAHAHAH
NVM SCRATCH ALL THIS
HHAHAHAHAH
February 5, 2017
Less personal memoir, more a plea for peace. I'm not a military buff, so large portions of the book went over my head, but it was an interesting read on the politics of a region that, as a westerner, can seem far away and confusing.
February 21, 2022
استمتعت بقراءة الكتاب بطريقة لم أتوقعها.
May 4, 2012
When we lived in Matamoros, Mexico, Honey and I took part in a bike tour co-sponsored by the Mayor’s office and the U.S. Consul General. Matamoros is just across the border from Brownsville, Texas, and our house was just a long block away from the Rio Grande, which we found out was called the Rio Bravo on the Mexican side of the border. You could literally see Texas from the roof of our house, and Honey could walk to work at the Consulate. On the day of the bike ride, our large group, accompanied by TV cameras, rode from a square near the mayor’s office on a winding tour around town, ending at the U.S. Consulate building.
One stop along the way was Casamata, a historical fortress, now used as a museum of Matamoros’ history. In it is an exhibit commemorating the war between the Mexicans and the Texians in which the Texians lost the Alamo, but won independence at San Jacinto. As I read the text in Spanish, I started to realize that the bad guys were, well, us. The Texans. I was walking along with Diego, who was a local staff member at the Consulate, and I gasped. He chuckled as I explained that I’d never read the story from that perspective before. The ungrateful, aggressive Texians, who refused to pay their taxes to the Church or respect their government, were reviled on the wall of Casamata. It unsettled my thinking and made me realize why, perhaps, there is still some residual resentment towards the United States. Let’s say the people of Maine decided back in the 1830′s that they no longer wanted to be part of this country; they seceded, fought us off, and joined up with Canada. Then, for generations, we were forced by geographical proximity to watch Maine flaunt its Canadian-ness. We might be a little bitter, too. I haven’t changed my mind about being a loyal Texan. My reading of the Mexican perspective, though, helped me see that there is another side to the story, one that is useful to understand when working or living alongside them.
Well, the three books I’m reviewing today had the same effect on me. (I do realize this is the first Thursday of the month, not the third, but I couldn’t wait!) As I read them, some settled notion in me became unsettled, some opinion opened to a larger vista. These three books are Bonhoeffer, by Eric Metaxas, Sarah’s Key, by Tatiana de Rosnay, and Our Last Best Chance: The Pursuit of Peace in a Time of Peril, by King Abdullah II of Jordan. It may seem odd that a biography, a novel, and a memoir/current affairs book would group themselves together, but I found that reading them all gave me deeper insight.
I had heard of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German theologian and pastor who was killed under the Nazi regime, and I own a couple of his books. As I read Metaxas’ account of Bonhoeffer’s life, I was struck by the development of Bonhoeffer’s faith. He entered theology as an academic discipline; as his studies continued, his exactitude as an academician did not decrease, but his faith in Jesus Christ dramatically increased. Bonhoeffer’s studies, then, were infused with an importance that surpassed schools of thought or academic recognition. He became magnetic, drawing others into his vision for the German Church and founding a seminary. As the Nazis came into power and Hitler’s decrees began to squeeze the German Church into submissive, and at first, subtly unbiblical positions, Bonhoeffer became more alarmed and more active in opposing Hitler and his policies.
Bonhoeffer spent some time studying in New York City, where he found American seminarians to be shockingly lazy and liberal thinkers. He experienced a vibrant, more orthodox faith, in his view, at churches in Harlem. His ability, in the first half of the twentieth century, to transcend race and truly worship alongside brothers in Christ, was one of the first unsettling things about Bonhoeffer to me. It ought not surprise us, true, that a Christian would be able to join alongside people of another nationality and race in a church setting; nevertheless, when I think of Germans during the Nazi era, I had never before thought of racial acceptance.
As I continued to read, I was stricken by the impossible task of convincing English officials to help support the Confessing Church, as Bonhoeffer and his colleagues named their congregations. To the British, in a time of war against Germany, to support or aid any German group that could not flee Germany was to open the door to accusations of aiding the enemy. It’s understandable, but regrettable.
As it became apparent that foreign aid would not arrive, a small group planned to assassinate Hitler. Bonhoeffer was part of that group, and it was his involvement that ultimately led to his death after a lengthy imprisonment. Again, surprising, given Bonhoeffer’s pacifism, but something Metaxas explains about Bonhoeffer early in the book seems to explain much about Bonhoeffer’s surprising life. Discussing Bonhoeffer’s seminary education, Metaxas writes, “Harnack’s theology was something like Archilochus’s proverbial fox, knowing many little things, while Barth’s theology was like a hedgehog, knowing one big thing. Bonhoeffer would side with the hedgehog, but he was in the fox’s seminar, and through his family and the Grunewald community, he had many ties with the fox. As a result of his intellectual openness, Bonhoeffer learned how to think like a fox and respect the way foxes thought, even though he was in the camp of the hedgehogs. He could appreciate the value in something, even if he ultimately rejected that something – and could see the errors and flaws in something, even if he ultimately accepted that something.”
Reading this book reminded me that even within a group of “enemies,” there is a range of thought and opinion, and that we should be aware of those within the group who might be willing to affect a move toward finding common ground. German culture and history appealed to me more after reading Bonhoeffer; I even commented to Honey, “Maybe I’ll learn German.” His raised eyebrow was enough to nip that idea in the bud, but I have never ever had the least desire to learn German before. Such is the power of Metaxas’ account of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s life and death.
On the heels of that biography, I picked up the best-selling Sarah’s Key. I thought of it as a light read when I approached it, if any book about World War II can be light. Quickly, I learned that was not to be the case. The opening scene of the book is of a family in Paris rounded up in the early morning hours, led away to the Vélodrome d’Hiver. There, detained with other Jewish families, Sarah, the daughter, reveals to her parents that she has hidden her four-year-old brother in the apartment. She promised him, she said, that she would come back for him. Her father, horrified, pleads with officials to return home to free his son, but is rebuffed. Sarah’s resolve to rescue her brother will make up the bulk of her part of the rest of the book.
Alternating with Sarah’s story is the account of Julia Jarmond, and American woman married to a Frenchman and raising their daughter in Paris. As a journalist, she receives the assignment to cover the 60th anniversary of the Vél d’Hiv round-up. As she pursues her story, her marriage falls into a harsher spotlight, and her still-shaky relationships with her French in-laws will take unexpected directions.
As a Francophone, I expected to be firmly on the side of our WWII allies as the story unfolded. A round-up of Jews during the Nazi occupation of Germany? Terrible, yes. Part of a larger tragedy that was the Holocaust, yes. But surprising? No. Except for Sarah’s words as she stood by her mother’s side at the door of their apartment: “He spoke perfect French. Then we are safe, thought the girl. If they are French, and not German, we are not in danger. If they are French, they will not harm us.”
The Vél d’Hiv round-up, occurring in a place whose later destruction limits the number of visitors who will come to remember, has largely been forgotten. Lines have entrenched themselves in our collective mind about the sides taken in WWII, and the French stand by us, the “good guys.” This book reminds us that in the moment, even we can succumb to base impulses to classify others and participate in their destruction. Bystanders, observers, can sometimes escape our judgment, being powerless. Sarah’s Key reminds us that even we, even the “right” side, contains an element of hatred, of willingness to rid ourselves of others. For me, facing that horror within, at a time when no such decision faces me, was a gift. A gift that reminds me of my need for God’s grace, for a keen eye and loving outlook toward others.
Last in my grouping is King Abdullah II’s memoir and plea for peace in the Middle East, Our Last Best Chance. As the king of Jordan, one of our economic partners in the region and a leading moderate Muslim voice, I was interested to read Abdullah’s account of his history with the elusive pursuit of peace between Israel and Arab countries. America has unswervingly aligned itself with Israel in diplomatic circles for many years; it is almost as unquestioned a policy in my mind as is our diplomatic embargo with Cuba. Though I was certainly aware that myriad opinions exist about how one-minded we ought to be as a nation about either of those policies, I have not deeply researched either issue enough to question what I perceived as a longstanding, unchanging diplomatic stance, particularly in regard to Israel.
I will hasten to add that reading King Abdullah’s book did not turn me against Israel. I believe that standing by Israel continues to be a policy that lends Israel diplomatic cover in a region that is largely hostile to its interests.
You’re expecting a “But” sentence here, aren’t you? On the contrary. What King Abdullah did in his book was narrate the Jordanian point of view, held by his father, King Hussein, and himself. His reasonable approach to pursuing peace opens the door to a wider view of what peace could look like in the Middle East. It explains another viewpoint of Israel’s actions and reactions. Abdullah’s track record of friendliness with the West, in addition to his domestic policies improving (not perfecting, I know) Jordan’s economy and civil rights outlook, calls us to consider his point of view as we move forward in partnership with Israel and Arab countries to see peace come to fruition.
In other words, instead of looking at peace in the Middle East as a win/lose situation in which Israel must be the victor on all points and at all costs, Abdullah’s hope is that Americans will work toward a win/win scenario in which Israel’s interests coexist with those of its Arab neighbors and peace, perhaps fragile at first, is allowed to sprout.
With an unsettled mind but a willingness to keep learning, I come away from these three books feeling as if a wider perspective affords me the chance to become a better citizen, a better Christian, and in future, a better friend to those with whom I might at first not agree. I recommend all three of these books.
One stop along the way was Casamata, a historical fortress, now used as a museum of Matamoros’ history. In it is an exhibit commemorating the war between the Mexicans and the Texians in which the Texians lost the Alamo, but won independence at San Jacinto. As I read the text in Spanish, I started to realize that the bad guys were, well, us. The Texans. I was walking along with Diego, who was a local staff member at the Consulate, and I gasped. He chuckled as I explained that I’d never read the story from that perspective before. The ungrateful, aggressive Texians, who refused to pay their taxes to the Church or respect their government, were reviled on the wall of Casamata. It unsettled my thinking and made me realize why, perhaps, there is still some residual resentment towards the United States. Let’s say the people of Maine decided back in the 1830′s that they no longer wanted to be part of this country; they seceded, fought us off, and joined up with Canada. Then, for generations, we were forced by geographical proximity to watch Maine flaunt its Canadian-ness. We might be a little bitter, too. I haven’t changed my mind about being a loyal Texan. My reading of the Mexican perspective, though, helped me see that there is another side to the story, one that is useful to understand when working or living alongside them.
Well, the three books I’m reviewing today had the same effect on me. (I do realize this is the first Thursday of the month, not the third, but I couldn’t wait!) As I read them, some settled notion in me became unsettled, some opinion opened to a larger vista. These three books are Bonhoeffer, by Eric Metaxas, Sarah’s Key, by Tatiana de Rosnay, and Our Last Best Chance: The Pursuit of Peace in a Time of Peril, by King Abdullah II of Jordan. It may seem odd that a biography, a novel, and a memoir/current affairs book would group themselves together, but I found that reading them all gave me deeper insight.
I had heard of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German theologian and pastor who was killed under the Nazi regime, and I own a couple of his books. As I read Metaxas’ account of Bonhoeffer’s life, I was struck by the development of Bonhoeffer’s faith. He entered theology as an academic discipline; as his studies continued, his exactitude as an academician did not decrease, but his faith in Jesus Christ dramatically increased. Bonhoeffer’s studies, then, were infused with an importance that surpassed schools of thought or academic recognition. He became magnetic, drawing others into his vision for the German Church and founding a seminary. As the Nazis came into power and Hitler’s decrees began to squeeze the German Church into submissive, and at first, subtly unbiblical positions, Bonhoeffer became more alarmed and more active in opposing Hitler and his policies.
Bonhoeffer spent some time studying in New York City, where he found American seminarians to be shockingly lazy and liberal thinkers. He experienced a vibrant, more orthodox faith, in his view, at churches in Harlem. His ability, in the first half of the twentieth century, to transcend race and truly worship alongside brothers in Christ, was one of the first unsettling things about Bonhoeffer to me. It ought not surprise us, true, that a Christian would be able to join alongside people of another nationality and race in a church setting; nevertheless, when I think of Germans during the Nazi era, I had never before thought of racial acceptance.
As I continued to read, I was stricken by the impossible task of convincing English officials to help support the Confessing Church, as Bonhoeffer and his colleagues named their congregations. To the British, in a time of war against Germany, to support or aid any German group that could not flee Germany was to open the door to accusations of aiding the enemy. It’s understandable, but regrettable.
As it became apparent that foreign aid would not arrive, a small group planned to assassinate Hitler. Bonhoeffer was part of that group, and it was his involvement that ultimately led to his death after a lengthy imprisonment. Again, surprising, given Bonhoeffer’s pacifism, but something Metaxas explains about Bonhoeffer early in the book seems to explain much about Bonhoeffer’s surprising life. Discussing Bonhoeffer’s seminary education, Metaxas writes, “Harnack’s theology was something like Archilochus’s proverbial fox, knowing many little things, while Barth’s theology was like a hedgehog, knowing one big thing. Bonhoeffer would side with the hedgehog, but he was in the fox’s seminar, and through his family and the Grunewald community, he had many ties with the fox. As a result of his intellectual openness, Bonhoeffer learned how to think like a fox and respect the way foxes thought, even though he was in the camp of the hedgehogs. He could appreciate the value in something, even if he ultimately rejected that something – and could see the errors and flaws in something, even if he ultimately accepted that something.”
Reading this book reminded me that even within a group of “enemies,” there is a range of thought and opinion, and that we should be aware of those within the group who might be willing to affect a move toward finding common ground. German culture and history appealed to me more after reading Bonhoeffer; I even commented to Honey, “Maybe I’ll learn German.” His raised eyebrow was enough to nip that idea in the bud, but I have never ever had the least desire to learn German before. Such is the power of Metaxas’ account of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s life and death.
On the heels of that biography, I picked up the best-selling Sarah’s Key. I thought of it as a light read when I approached it, if any book about World War II can be light. Quickly, I learned that was not to be the case. The opening scene of the book is of a family in Paris rounded up in the early morning hours, led away to the Vélodrome d’Hiver. There, detained with other Jewish families, Sarah, the daughter, reveals to her parents that she has hidden her four-year-old brother in the apartment. She promised him, she said, that she would come back for him. Her father, horrified, pleads with officials to return home to free his son, but is rebuffed. Sarah’s resolve to rescue her brother will make up the bulk of her part of the rest of the book.
Alternating with Sarah’s story is the account of Julia Jarmond, and American woman married to a Frenchman and raising their daughter in Paris. As a journalist, she receives the assignment to cover the 60th anniversary of the Vél d’Hiv round-up. As she pursues her story, her marriage falls into a harsher spotlight, and her still-shaky relationships with her French in-laws will take unexpected directions.
As a Francophone, I expected to be firmly on the side of our WWII allies as the story unfolded. A round-up of Jews during the Nazi occupation of Germany? Terrible, yes. Part of a larger tragedy that was the Holocaust, yes. But surprising? No. Except for Sarah’s words as she stood by her mother’s side at the door of their apartment: “He spoke perfect French. Then we are safe, thought the girl. If they are French, and not German, we are not in danger. If they are French, they will not harm us.”
The Vél d’Hiv round-up, occurring in a place whose later destruction limits the number of visitors who will come to remember, has largely been forgotten. Lines have entrenched themselves in our collective mind about the sides taken in WWII, and the French stand by us, the “good guys.” This book reminds us that in the moment, even we can succumb to base impulses to classify others and participate in their destruction. Bystanders, observers, can sometimes escape our judgment, being powerless. Sarah’s Key reminds us that even we, even the “right” side, contains an element of hatred, of willingness to rid ourselves of others. For me, facing that horror within, at a time when no such decision faces me, was a gift. A gift that reminds me of my need for God’s grace, for a keen eye and loving outlook toward others.
Last in my grouping is King Abdullah II’s memoir and plea for peace in the Middle East, Our Last Best Chance. As the king of Jordan, one of our economic partners in the region and a leading moderate Muslim voice, I was interested to read Abdullah’s account of his history with the elusive pursuit of peace between Israel and Arab countries. America has unswervingly aligned itself with Israel in diplomatic circles for many years; it is almost as unquestioned a policy in my mind as is our diplomatic embargo with Cuba. Though I was certainly aware that myriad opinions exist about how one-minded we ought to be as a nation about either of those policies, I have not deeply researched either issue enough to question what I perceived as a longstanding, unchanging diplomatic stance, particularly in regard to Israel.
I will hasten to add that reading King Abdullah’s book did not turn me against Israel. I believe that standing by Israel continues to be a policy that lends Israel diplomatic cover in a region that is largely hostile to its interests.
You’re expecting a “But” sentence here, aren’t you? On the contrary. What King Abdullah did in his book was narrate the Jordanian point of view, held by his father, King Hussein, and himself. His reasonable approach to pursuing peace opens the door to a wider view of what peace could look like in the Middle East. It explains another viewpoint of Israel’s actions and reactions. Abdullah’s track record of friendliness with the West, in addition to his domestic policies improving (not perfecting, I know) Jordan’s economy and civil rights outlook, calls us to consider his point of view as we move forward in partnership with Israel and Arab countries to see peace come to fruition.
In other words, instead of looking at peace in the Middle East as a win/lose situation in which Israel must be the victor on all points and at all costs, Abdullah’s hope is that Americans will work toward a win/win scenario in which Israel’s interests coexist with those of its Arab neighbors and peace, perhaps fragile at first, is allowed to sprout.
With an unsettled mind but a willingness to keep learning, I come away from these three books feeling as if a wider perspective affords me the chance to become a better citizen, a better Christian, and in future, a better friend to those with whom I might at first not agree. I recommend all three of these books.
January 19, 2023
A very detailed book about King Abdullah's life, the first ten years of his reign and especially the history and current status of the ongoing conflict between Israel, Palestine and how that affects the region and the world. Unfortunately it was published in 2011 so it is more than a decade behind but his story part is still very applicable. It is quite depressing that there is still not an independent state of Palestine and that
King Abdullah seems to be a very smart, moderate leader who cares for his own people and all people. Some chapters was fascinating and some a little slow depending on how interesting I found the topics.
I very much look forward to visiting his country!
Give this a read if you like autobiographies of leaders, the Middle East or want to know more about the peace process between Palestine & Israel.
King Abdullah seems to be a very smart, moderate leader who cares for his own people and all people. Some chapters was fascinating and some a little slow depending on how interesting I found the topics.
I very much look forward to visiting his country!
Give this a read if you like autobiographies of leaders, the Middle East or want to know more about the peace process between Palestine & Israel.
February 18, 2025
Absolutely fascinating!
Jordan has such a special place in my mind and heart and I loved reading HM King Abdullah's account and perspective of his growing-up years and his involvement in complex politics. Eye-opening and pretty easily digestible. If you have an interest in politics, the history of Middle Eastern countries, leadership, and/or nonfiction, you will likely find many subjects of value here!
Jordan has such a special place in my mind and heart and I loved reading HM King Abdullah's account and perspective of his growing-up years and his involvement in complex politics. Eye-opening and pretty easily digestible. If you have an interest in politics, the history of Middle Eastern countries, leadership, and/or nonfiction, you will likely find many subjects of value here!
November 7, 2020
A balanced presentation of the Israli-Palestine conflict that would help to shape the perspective of the reader to see the conflict from different angles. Additional research into the details of the events may be helpful to gain additional context, overall Abdullah's perspective seems to capture the complexities of the conflict and communicates the urgency to western countries to seek a solution.
January 30, 2023
“I have never felt that interacting with Western culture comes at the expense of my identity as an Arab or a Muslim. As somebody born in the East but educated in the West, I feel a deep affinity for both cultures. My hope is that this book can, in a small way, act as a bridge between them.”
A well-written account of HM King Abdullah II’s efforts to work towards peace in the Middle East, peppered with personal anecdotes and crucial insight into the peace-making process.
A well-written account of HM King Abdullah II’s efforts to work towards peace in the Middle East, peppered with personal anecdotes and crucial insight into the peace-making process.
February 27, 2023
مثل ياباني: اذا كنت تصدق كل ما تقرأ، توقف عن القراءة فوراً 😷
April 15, 2019
A must read for all of us. Easy to read, gives so much insight into the history and peace processes over the centuries in the Middle East.
June 1, 2016
Title: Our Last Best Chance
Author: King Abdullah II of Jordan
ISBN: 978-0-141-04879-6
Publisher: Penguin
Year: 2012
Softcover
Pages: 346
Photographs/maps: 39 b/w
The Kingdom of Jordan stands as a bastion of stability in a very unstable neighbourhood. That it has been able to maintain internal order and good governance despite poverty, a massive refugee challenge and a region wracked by sectarian and religious violence is a testament to its benign leadership and a moderate and balanced approach by government. The role of the Royal family in Jordan has been instrumental in the maintenance of this stability.
King Abdullah came to the throne unexpectedly upon the death of his father King Hussein in 1999. Since then he has dealt with the second Iraq War and its regional fallout, the Arab Spring, the world economic crisis of the late 2000’s, War in Syria, the ongoing Palestinian/Israeli issue and the challenge of the international perception of Islam with the rise of ISIL. His book is a reflection of his thoughts and vision of how these and other issues are being met, the challenges associated with each both regionally and internationally and what may be done to address them.
His book is a balanced and thoughtful assessment of the root causes of these issues and the role that Jordan and the international community must play in addressing them. He does not shy away from forthright criticism of all parties and the continuing narrow mindedness of the actions of individuals and states. He is particularly critical of the Israeli approach to the issue of the Palestinians; his observations however, are not simply rhetoric and bombast but measured and reflect a position based upon contemplation and experience.
His work provides an excellent insight into the realities of Arab politics: the challenges of tribalism, individuality, religion and economic disparity. His is a world where coups and the threat of political violence is a very strong reality. He outlines his efforts to improve education and the access of all to the benefits of the global economy while recognizing the history and culture of the Arab community. It is a fascinating view of the interface between politics, the integrated role of religion in all aspects of society and the lingering traditions of the Arab people relating to the role of tribes, women and honour.
King Abdullah has a foot in each camp. He brings to his book his insights into the Arab mind tempered with his exposure and understanding of the Western world. His is a benign and moderate leadership whose success is reflected in the stability of Jordan. His book represents the thoughts and contemplation's of an experienced and respected Arabic leader. They are not couched in religious rhetoric but are presented in a very readable and logical fashion. It is evident that he has thought long and deeply on these issues and that he holds very strong opinions and beliefs. This is a book well worth reading and one that, it is hoped, will be followed by further writings on the subsequent events since its publication in 2011.
Author: King Abdullah II of Jordan
ISBN: 978-0-141-04879-6
Publisher: Penguin
Year: 2012
Softcover
Pages: 346
Photographs/maps: 39 b/w
The Kingdom of Jordan stands as a bastion of stability in a very unstable neighbourhood. That it has been able to maintain internal order and good governance despite poverty, a massive refugee challenge and a region wracked by sectarian and religious violence is a testament to its benign leadership and a moderate and balanced approach by government. The role of the Royal family in Jordan has been instrumental in the maintenance of this stability.
King Abdullah came to the throne unexpectedly upon the death of his father King Hussein in 1999. Since then he has dealt with the second Iraq War and its regional fallout, the Arab Spring, the world economic crisis of the late 2000’s, War in Syria, the ongoing Palestinian/Israeli issue and the challenge of the international perception of Islam with the rise of ISIL. His book is a reflection of his thoughts and vision of how these and other issues are being met, the challenges associated with each both regionally and internationally and what may be done to address them.
His book is a balanced and thoughtful assessment of the root causes of these issues and the role that Jordan and the international community must play in addressing them. He does not shy away from forthright criticism of all parties and the continuing narrow mindedness of the actions of individuals and states. He is particularly critical of the Israeli approach to the issue of the Palestinians; his observations however, are not simply rhetoric and bombast but measured and reflect a position based upon contemplation and experience.
His work provides an excellent insight into the realities of Arab politics: the challenges of tribalism, individuality, religion and economic disparity. His is a world where coups and the threat of political violence is a very strong reality. He outlines his efforts to improve education and the access of all to the benefits of the global economy while recognizing the history and culture of the Arab community. It is a fascinating view of the interface between politics, the integrated role of religion in all aspects of society and the lingering traditions of the Arab people relating to the role of tribes, women and honour.
King Abdullah has a foot in each camp. He brings to his book his insights into the Arab mind tempered with his exposure and understanding of the Western world. His is a benign and moderate leadership whose success is reflected in the stability of Jordan. His book represents the thoughts and contemplation's of an experienced and respected Arabic leader. They are not couched in religious rhetoric but are presented in a very readable and logical fashion. It is evident that he has thought long and deeply on these issues and that he holds very strong opinions and beliefs. This is a book well worth reading and one that, it is hoped, will be followed by further writings on the subsequent events since its publication in 2011.
February 8, 2012
I first became interested in the man who would become King Abdullah II of Jordan when he made a cameo appearance on an episode of Star Trek: Voyager. At the time, he was still a prince. Apparently he is a huge fan of Star Trek. When I heard about his book, published in 2011, I knew I had to read it. The world needs more leaders who believe in the philosophy of Star Trek (all peoples, educated and living in peace, with good work to do and sufficient food, water, and shelter).
I am not a student of the affairs in the Middle East, and I’m sure there are people who will disagree with some of what is written in Our Last Best Chance: The Pursuit of Peace in a Time of Peril. However, I found the narrative accessible and the narrator compelling. In the book, the author tries to shed light on the Middle East for American readers. King Abdullah II was educated in the United States and England, and Jordan is a friend to the United States. He says, “I have been highly critical at times of Israel’s behavior and intransigence, but it goes without saying that there is plenty of blame to go around on both sides for the failure of the peace process.” He also writes, “One of the more frustrating misconceptions in the West is that all Arab women are oppressed, illiterate, kept at home to look after children, and forced to wear the veil when they venture out of the house. Many women across Jordan and the Arab world…go to university and then achieve great things in their professional careers.” He tackles other misconceptions about the Middle East as well.
One of the things King Abdullah II has accomplished is the creation of a co-educational academy in Jordan offering scholarships to those unable to afford the fees. All students are treated equally; even his own son has do his chores and take his turn waiting on tables for other students. One goal is to help Jordanian students compete in the modern global economy. The proceeds from the sales of this book support the school’s scholarship fund.
King Abdullah II is an unusual world leader. If you would be interested in reading about the Middle East, Arabs, and Muslims from a point of view other than what we usually hear on American television, from someone who lives in the Middle East and deals with the issues every day, I recommend Our Last Best Chance.
I am not a student of the affairs in the Middle East, and I’m sure there are people who will disagree with some of what is written in Our Last Best Chance: The Pursuit of Peace in a Time of Peril. However, I found the narrative accessible and the narrator compelling. In the book, the author tries to shed light on the Middle East for American readers. King Abdullah II was educated in the United States and England, and Jordan is a friend to the United States. He says, “I have been highly critical at times of Israel’s behavior and intransigence, but it goes without saying that there is plenty of blame to go around on both sides for the failure of the peace process.” He also writes, “One of the more frustrating misconceptions in the West is that all Arab women are oppressed, illiterate, kept at home to look after children, and forced to wear the veil when they venture out of the house. Many women across Jordan and the Arab world…go to university and then achieve great things in their professional careers.” He tackles other misconceptions about the Middle East as well.
One of the things King Abdullah II has accomplished is the creation of a co-educational academy in Jordan offering scholarships to those unable to afford the fees. All students are treated equally; even his own son has do his chores and take his turn waiting on tables for other students. One goal is to help Jordanian students compete in the modern global economy. The proceeds from the sales of this book support the school’s scholarship fund.
King Abdullah II is an unusual world leader. If you would be interested in reading about the Middle East, Arabs, and Muslims from a point of view other than what we usually hear on American television, from someone who lives in the Middle East and deals with the issues every day, I recommend Our Last Best Chance.
August 5, 2020
#فرصتنا_الأخيرة
#عبدالله_الثاني_بن_الحسين
عدد الصفحات : 440
الكتاب الثاني والأربعون لعام 2020
يتحدث جلالة الملك عبدالله الثاني بن الحسين عن الحياة السياسية في الشرق الأوسط بشكل عام وعن الملكية في الأردن بشكل خاص، والحياة العسكرية كما عاشها هو منذ أن كان طالبًا في مدارس عسكرية عدة لتنقل بين الرتب حتى وصوله لقيادة القوات الخاصة الفرقة 71 والتي يُعرف عنها أنها أقوى وأهم فرقة في الجيش الأردني يتم الإعتماد عليها في المهام الأصعب ومكافحة الأرهاب، حتى تعرفه على رانيا الياسين والتي أصبحت بعدها بفترة قصيرة زوجته، قبل أن يعينه والده كوليٍ للعهد قبيل وفاته بأشهر، ليستكمل حديثه عن أول عشرة أعوامٍ من حكمه والصعوبات التي عصفت بالمنطقة مع ظهور تيارات التطرف والإرهاب، وسعيه لإظهار حقيقة الإسلام العادل التي لا يمتُّ التطرف به بصلة. وعلى الرغم من ذلك إلا أنه قد منح القضية الفلسطينية وصراعها حصة الأسد من كتابه هذا بذكره للعديد من الأحداث والمواقف التي جرت خلال سعي والده المغفور له بإذن الله الحسين بن طلال لإحلال السلام وإنشاء دولة للفسطينيين على أراضيهم، واستكماله هو للمسير في الطريق ذاته. مبيّنًا علاقاته الخارجية والتحركات الدبلوماسية التي كانت تجري في كل الإتجاهات لإرساء مبادئ السلام والإستقرار ليس في فلسطين والأردن وحسب بل وحتى في العراق والشرق الأوسط كافة.
#إيمان_بني_صخر
#عبدالله_الثاني_بن_الحسين
عدد الصفحات : 440
الكتاب الثاني والأربعون لعام 2020
يتحدث جلالة الملك عبدالله الثاني بن الحسين عن الحياة السياسية في الشرق الأوسط بشكل عام وعن الملكية في الأردن بشكل خاص، والحياة العسكرية كما عاشها هو منذ أن كان طالبًا في مدارس عسكرية عدة لتنقل بين الرتب حتى وصوله لقيادة القوات الخاصة الفرقة 71 والتي يُعرف عنها أنها أقوى وأهم فرقة في الجيش الأردني يتم الإعتماد عليها في المهام الأصعب ومكافحة الأرهاب، حتى تعرفه على رانيا الياسين والتي أصبحت بعدها بفترة قصيرة زوجته، قبل أن يعينه والده كوليٍ للعهد قبيل وفاته بأشهر، ليستكمل حديثه عن أول عشرة أعوامٍ من حكمه والصعوبات التي عصفت بالمنطقة مع ظهور تيارات التطرف والإرهاب، وسعيه لإظهار حقيقة الإسلام العادل التي لا يمتُّ التطرف به بصلة. وعلى الرغم من ذلك إلا أنه قد منح القضية الفلسطينية وصراعها حصة الأسد من كتابه هذا بذكره للعديد من الأحداث والمواقف التي جرت خلال سعي والده المغفور له بإذن الله الحسين بن طلال لإحلال السلام وإنشاء دولة للفسطينيين على أراضيهم، واستكماله هو للمسير في الطريق ذاته. مبيّنًا علاقاته الخارجية والتحركات الدبلوماسية التي كانت تجري في كل الإتجاهات لإرساء مبادئ السلام والإستقرار ليس في فلسطين والأردن وحسب بل وحتى في العراق والشرق الأوسط كافة.
#إيمان_بني_صخر
January 22, 2019
Written by the reigning king of Jordan, King Abdullah II, this book is the easiest read you would find on the historic Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This book also manages to champion the voices of the moderate Arabs, who are often unheard in comparison to their fundamentalist counterparts. A very comprehensive read on the history of the middle eastern region and its dynamics/ struggles/ aspirations for peace. Though much outdated, I would nonetheless highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to understand the foundations of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Also, the royalties of this book go towards education of underprivileged Jordanians. Win-win :)
June 4, 2017
It was interesting to hear an Arab perspective on the Israeli/Palestinian conflict.
The book was published just before the Arab spring, so many of Abdullah's opinions are no longer applicable in the new political environment.
I also thought the book would have been stronger if Abdullah had better addressed whether and how a two state solution was the best way to address Israeli security concerns.
Abdullah is an impressive leader who writes well, so the book is worth reading.
The book was published just before the Arab spring, so many of Abdullah's opinions are no longer applicable in the new political environment.
I also thought the book would have been stronger if Abdullah had better addressed whether and how a two state solution was the best way to address Israeli security concerns.
Abdullah is an impressive leader who writes well, so the book is worth reading.
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