In my opinion, this is one of the most detailed, well-written book about Afghanistan's communist period out there. It was long written before today. Some of the authors' prediction came true, such as foreign invasion would unite Afghanistan together. However, Hyman was wrong about saying Afghanistan wouldn't lean towards a more religious society in the book. He had mentioned the rise of Pashto regional leaders but he didn't mention so much about the role of religion in it. Of course, this book was written before the rise of the Taliban and so much other stuff. But overall a really great source for people to learn about a forgotten part of Afghan history.