“Enemies and Neighbours” is a timely read, given the heightened attention on the unfolding tragedy in Gaza. This book reaffirms that the period under study has been marked by one tragedy after another, putting current events into a broader context. One can certainly see this current tragedy echoing but clearly overshadowing previous campaigns.
Writing a history over a long period presents the challenge of balancing detail to illuminate the scope of the study without overwhelming the reader. This work is extensive and exhaustive, but it provided too much detail for me, making the narrative feel dry and ponderous. The periodisation seemed logical but may already be challenged by events subsequent to its 2017 end of coverage.
I might be more accustomed to journalistic presentations, delving deep only when a topic holds enduring interest. I’ve read in the past on the history of Palestine and the wider Levantine, but I wasn’t seeking a fuller, exhaustive compendium of facts about this area. This book was a recitation of names, events, and details without the synthesis and analysis needed to highlight broad, recurrent themes. It felt like background reading, not inspiring deeper reflection.
I must admit, I found it a bit of a struggle. There were times when I had to put it down and pick up something else before I could return to it. It felt more like a book club duty than an engaging read. While it’s comprehensive and not overly biased, showcasing the author’s ability to present a cohesive whole, for me, it’s a 5/10.