Books
by John Simpson
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A Mad World, My Masters |
This leading BBC news correspondent recounts some of his dramatic experiences in a life of reporting from many of the world's most sinister and dangerous places. Anecdotes galore, both comic and otherwise, concerning some gruesome dictators as well as unsung heroes. Situations include: Afghanistan and meeting bin Laden when the Taliban were taking over, Colombia with its drug business and Belgrade under the Nato bombs. Good reading with some stimulating objections to the conventional view.
(Jeremy Swann - bwl 12 January 2002) |
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Lifting the Veil - Life in Revolutionary Iran |
and Tira Shubart
Published 1995 - This is a book for those who want to gain some understanding of the complexities of Islam, from the days of the Shah and some insight into the part played by the West and the prejudices on both sides. The text covers time spent with diverse individuals and groups, often in difficult conditions. Written with great warmth and in a very accessible style. Not for those who want life to be simplistic.
(Lynda Johnson - bwl 11 October 2001) |
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Strange Places, Questionable People |
Did this come out before or after It's a Mad World, My Masters (bwl 12)?* More of the same - fascinating on-the-spot accounts of world events written by a man who cares deeply about the people and places he finds himself involved with: Tiananmen Square, Sarajevo, Gaddafi in his tent and more. Quiet digs at BBC power struggles make one realise how precarious - and precious - the independent-minded reporter can be; and how grateful we should be to them.
*It came out in 1998, It's a Mad World, My Masters was published in 2001 - Editor's note
(Annabel Bedini - bwl 16 December 2002) |
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