This was a very interesting book about something that I knew almost nothing about, and was a very unique perspective on that thing as well. The authors job as a journalist definitely shines through in the prose. It was beautifully written and the manner by which the story unfolds is delightful and kept me reading. Additionally, the story line about the Iraq war was very interesting and something I would like to learn more about. The cover of the book is very gorgeous with all of the bright colors and the alarming picture of the lion which will make everyone want to pick it up from the shelf when they see it there, especially to give as a gift on this holiday season. Very well done all around and I would recommend this to any history buffs or people who like to learn about something new from a new and different perspective from their own perspective.