Bangladesh became an independent state in 1971. But its story, often overshadowed by flood, famine and natural disaster is one that should make every Bangladeshi proud. David Urch's vivid narrative evokes the people and the place, describing how, after years of outside influence, modern Bangladesh was born. Despite centuries of external domination, the Bangladeshis remain a proud people. Now at last they themselves can benefit from their rich and diverse country. The first comprehensive history of Bangladesh to be written by an Englishman, though one who has spent much of his life in Islamic countries, It is more than a history of Bangladesh. By recounting what has often been a violent and tragic history, it explores wider issues such as the cultural and economic interactions between those of different faiths, and the problems of establishing stable systems of government in places that have experienced centuries of oppression and exploitation.

Crescent and Delta: The Bangladesh Story

History

Urch, David

Asia

University of Buckingham Press

Is Riyadh really the capital of Saudi Arabia, Daddy?' An Englishman in Riyadh, David Urchs account of his years in Saudi Arabia, belongs to a long-standing and important tradition - works by English authors describing their encounters with Islamic societies. They range from the Letters of Lady Mary Wortley Montagu to T E Lawrences Seven Pillars of Wisdom and the works of Freya Stark. Consciously or unconsciously, the best examples - of which An Englishman in Riydah is undoubtedly one - reflect aspects of Islamic and Arabian culture; above all they reveal a sheer delight in story telling. Thus David Urchs book is really belongs to two traditions rather than just one - the other is that of the Arabian Nights. Davids stories are wonderfully told: the sense of timing, the pace, the humour, sometimes the pathos, the impending disaster, the unexpected twist and - usually - the happy ending. All of the essential ingredients are there. Something of Arabia has surely rubbed off on David.

An Englishman in Riyadh

Biographies & Memoirs

Arts & Literature

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Books by Urch, David