On the other hand, if u need fresh info, and think "Well look at this book, it was printed in May 2003! So it must be current and cover things up to ... hmmm ... beginning of 2003 ??" And that is a mistake ... up to about 2000. or 2001. is OK, but then it starts talking not of Afghanistan but all the popular stuff ... drugs, Osama, 9/11 ... just no Afghanistan!That is a BIG minus in my world!Detailed but Insightful A very good book that helps to explain Afghanistan?s present situation by describing the conflicts and power struggles of the past. It is hard to keep track of all the names of Afghani warlords and tribal leaders but I do not fault the author for this. The devastation caused as a result of super power struggles during the Cold War is made abundantly clear. The book demonstrates how little loyalty Afghan leaders and family have toward each other. The book describes a level of suffering that is hard for North American?s to imagine. Unfortunately if the past is any indication the future, does not look bright for Afghanistan. One of the clear themes of the book is how the complex Afghanistan political and ethnic situations defy simple solutions. I was impressed by the author?s unbiased approach and his insightful predictions. His suggestions to reduce future violence are novel and very thought provoking.
