'Remarkable' indeed: born in 1868, overcoming class and gender she became mountaineer, dauntless desert traveller, political adviser (her diplomatic skills created independent Iraq almost single handed). It beggars belief how much Bell packed into her life, phenomenally capable but also sane and even amused in the most hair-raising physical and professional situations. Thanks to Howell's generous use of Bell's diaries and letters, we live her experiences and emotions first hand, breath held. A truly amazing story.
(Annabel Bedini - bwl 69 Summer 2013 ) |
