Iraq: People of Promise, Land of Despair

by Canon Andrew White

"This is the first-hand account of one man's deepening involvement over six years with Iraq, which has included sensitive hostage negotiations. As an envoy for peace, Andrew dedicated himself to religious and political reconciliation in Iraq and frequently risked his life. He is remarkable for his capacity to relate to people at both a high and a more ordinary level, and his picture of life on the ground in Iraq is as compelling as his insights into what goes on behind the political censors." Interspersed in this compelling account are reflections on such profound issues as the nature of evil, the necessity sometimes of war and - perhaps the most urgent question - whether religion is part of the problem or the solution.

Genres: History, Christianity

127 pages, Paperback

First published March 28, 2003

Reviews

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

Andrew White spoke at our church and as a result, I read this book. I was very impressed with the author's perseverance staying on in Baghdad after the American invasion and the very dangerous conditions that developed. White has an incredible sense of calling and duty in serving his congregation and seeking whatever opportunities he had to promote peace as an envoy of the Anglican church. A key observation is that peace will involve the cooperation of the various religious leaders of Iraq and not simply an imposed Western-style democracy. I thought it very interesting how White worked with Moslem leaders with utter mutual respect but without compromising his own beliefs. This required wisdom.

[Rodeweeks · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is one of a number of books I've read over the past few months focusing on Christians and general oppression in the Middle East. I love the fact that this Anglican priest were able to work together with Christians from different denominations (Chaldean Catholics, Orthodox, and Evangelical) as well as leaders in Islam. I also enjoy reading the simplified version of the ethics and rules behind the Christian idea of a just war explained at the end of the book even though it is clear that White hoped that war could be avoided completely. Most of the book, however, focused on how White was able to help the Iraqi people in small ways and his many meetings with religious and political leaders.

[Áine Niallais · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating book on Iraq. Very interesting to read a perspective in favour of the Iraq war.

[Gulo · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book needed a better editor. If not for the more reflective sub-chapters, it would have been a series of the author name dropping, mentioning jokes he told that he thought went over well, and overall assuring the reader of his importance. Phrases like ‘the following Sunday…’ are repeatedly used with no reference date mentioned. If not for the sub-chapters, which were honestly quite good, this book would easily deserve one star.

My one takeaway quote:

“It is important that we do not assume that every conflict is religious in nature. Saddam Hussein was not a religious man, though later in years he often tried to project himself as one, and the war to oust him had no religious cause or content… Nevertheless, religion soon did raise its head in the conflict that ensued after the war.”
-A. White

[Gina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very good book. I appreciate Andrew White's heart for Iraq & it's people. His account of life on the ground in Iraq is extremely enlightening. I have gained a new perspective of Iraq & all that's transpired there due to religion & wars. I am thankful for him as well as all the other leaders in Iraq & other countries that have worked so tirelessly to contribute & fight for peace & reconciliation in the world!

[Gina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book. I appreciate & thank Canon Andrew White for sharing his story of his first visits to Iraq & friendships & relationships he's been blessed with in Iraq. His selfless and tireless work has been a great thing for Iraq & it's people. This book has definitely helped me to understand the complexities of the crisis & gain insight about the people there in Iraq. I look forward to reading his other books.