Quick Take

"In August 2003 a young Iraqi blogger began reporting her experiences as a civilian observer in Baghdad. Calling herself Riverbend, she has offered searing eyewitness accounts of daily life in the war zone and has garnered a worldwide audience hungry for unfiltered news and fresh analysis." "Riverbend's blog, Baghdad Burning, collected here for the first time, responds to events both personal and political - from the impact on her family of the invasion's aftermath to the Abu Ghraib prison abuses. She reveals for us most sharply the fate of Iraqi women, whose rights and freedoms are falling victim to rising fundamentalisms." Describing the reality of regime change in Iraq in a voice at turns outraged, witty, and deeply moving, Riverbend is a witness to the recent events that are shaping the future of her homeland.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Baghdad Burning: Girl Blog from Iraq

Introduction

"Baghdad Burning: Girl Blog from Iraq" is a powerful and insightful book that offers a first-hand account of the war in Iraq through the eyes of a young Iraqi woman. Written by Riverbend, the author of the popular blog of the same name, this book provides a unique perspective on the events that shaped the future of her homeland. With its searing eyewitness accounts and in-depth analysis of political and social issues, "Baghdad Burning" offers readers a glimpse into the daily life of civilians in war-torn Baghdad.

About Riverbend

Riverbend, the author of "Baghdad Burning," is a pseudonymous Iraqi woman who began blogging in August 2003. Her identity is carefully hidden, but her blog entries reveal a young woman with a sharp wit and deep understanding of the complexities of Iraqi society. Riverbend writes in an idiomatic English with a slight American inflection, which adds to the authenticity of her accounts. She combines political statements with cultural information, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of Iraqi life before and during the war.

Analysis of Views

Personal and Political Accounts: Riverbend's blog entries offer a personal and political account of the war in Iraq. She provides readers with a glimpse into her family's experiences and the impact of the invasion on their lives. She also delves into the broader political issues, such as the rise of fundamentalism and the struggles for power among various factions.
Humanizing War: One of the most significant aspects of "Baghdad Burning" is how it humanizes the war. Riverbend's descriptions of daily life in Baghdad, including her observations of soldiers raiding houses, Apache gunships firing bullets, and neighbors being taken away for "questioning," bring the horrors of war to life. She provides readers with a first-hand account that cannot be ignored.
Cultural Insights: Riverbend's blog offers readers a wealth of cultural insights into Iraqi society. Her descriptions of Ramadan, traditional Iraqi cuisine, and other cultural practices offer a window into the richness of Iraqi culture. These insights provide readers with a deeper understanding of Iraqi society and its resilience in the face of adversity.
Political Critique: Riverbend's blog is not just a personal account; it is also a political critique of the United States' actions in Iraq. She highlights the lies and misinformation that led to the invasion and the ongoing violence perpetrated by both sides. She calls attention to the suffering of Iraqi women, whose rights and freedoms are being eroded by rising fundamentalism.
Engaging Writing Style: Riverbend's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to connect with her stories. Her use of humor, sarcasm, and wit adds depth to her accounts and makes her writing enjoyable to read.

Reasons for Recommendation

Authenticity: "Baghdad Burning" offers an authentic account of life in war-torn Iraq through the eyes of a young woman who lived through it. Riverbend's personal experiences and insights provide readers with a unique perspective on the events that shaped Iraq's recent history.
Insightful Analysis: The book offers an insightful analysis of political and social issues in Iraq, shedding light on the complexities of the country's post-invasion landscape. Riverbend's critical examination of American foreign policy and its impact on Iraq provides readers with a deeper understanding of the consequences of military intervention.
Cultural Insights: The book provides readers with a rich understanding of Iraqi culture, offering insights into traditional customs, cuisine, and religious practices. This cultural context adds depth to Riverbend's accounts and helps readers appreciate the resilience and richness of Iraqi society.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Limited Perspective: Some readers may find that "Baghdad Burning" offers a limited perspective on the war in Iraq. While Riverbend's accounts are compelling, they may not provide a comprehensive view of all aspects of the conflict. Readers seeking a more comprehensive understanding of the war may find this book lacking in certain areas.
Emotional Impact: The book's accounts of violence, death, and suffering may be emotionally challenging for some readers. The descriptions of daily life under occupation can be harrowing and may trigger strong emotional responses in readers who are sensitive to such content.

Conclusion

"Baghdad Burning: Girl Blog from Iraq" is a powerful and insightful book that offers readers a unique perspective on the war in Iraq through the eyes of a young Iraqi woman. Riverbend's personal accounts and political critiques provide readers with an authentic understanding of life in war-torn Baghdad and shed light on the complexities of post-invasion Iraq. While some readers may find it emotionally challenging, "Baghdad Burning" is highly recommended for those seeking an authentic account of life during wartime and an insightful analysis of political and social issues in Iraq.