This Side of Peace: A Personal Account

by Hanan Ashrawi

Book Overview

From the world-recognized leader of the Palestinians comes an inside view of Arafat and of the secret negotiations and last-minute decisions that led to the Oslo Peace Talks.

An insider's view of Mideast diplomacy, the PLO hierarchy, and the author's own life reveals Hanan Ashrawi's struggles as a Christian Arab woman in a Muslim, male-dominated society and chronicles her efforts for peace.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 068482342X
• ISBN13: 9780684823423
• Release Date: June 1996
• Publisher: Touchstone Books
• Length: 320 Pages
• Weight: 0.85 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 5.9" x 8.9"

Customer Reviews

Excellent Backgrounder

I found this book to be excellent because it provides a good overview the Palestinian-Israeli problem from the point of view of a person living there.It is disappointing that Ms. Ashrawi does not replace Arafat.

Amazing

Dr. Ashrawi's account of her childhood experiences and events that are sprinkled throughout the book brought tears to my eyes. Her descriptions of the beautiful Palestinian countryside and land paint vivid images. The narrative is incredibly eloquent and the touching style brings a human element to the sufferings and tragedies of the Palestinian people during the occupation. Her fact-based accounts of the peace negotiations with the Israeli and American governments are presented with a straight-forward attitude that defy contradiction. This is a book that demands a sequel, especially in light of the outbreak of the Al-Aqsa Intifada in 2000 and the recent tragic events and conditions suffered by the brave and courageous Palestinian people. It is a book that provides the reader with an insider's experience of history making. It is an invitation by Dr. Ashrawi to walk with her through the corridors of Middle East diplomacy. She is an incredible role model to women everywhere and in the Middle East in particular. She is a well-educated mother, wife, policy maker and creator of history, and above all, the love she has in her heart for her land and countrymen outshines everything else.

Great book about the truth!

An amazing book for anyone, especially eye opening for those who are unfamiliar with the Palestinian struggle. It is a clear picture of the remarkable struggles the Palestinian people have had to endure under occupation. It is incredibly painful to read some of the harsh brutality the Palestinians have had to live through, but extremely accurate. I applaud Hanan's efforts in writing a book that must have dredged up so many painful memories. Highly recommend it!

Incredible!

An amazing book for anyone, especially eye opening for those who are unfamiliar with the Palestinian struggle. It is a clear picture of the remarkable struggles the Palestinian people have had to endure under occupation. It is incredibly painful to read some of the harsh brutality the Palestinians have had to live through, but extremely accurate. I applaud Hanan's efforts in writing a book that must have dredged up so many painful memories. Highly recommend it!

An Amazing Account!

I read this book after a recent visit to Israel and I found it to be a very accurate account of the real happenings in Israel. Hanan's book is accurate, moving, and inspiring. I recommend it to anyone who wants to hear the other side of the story.