I’m reading my way through the Counterinsurgency Reading List over on Abu Muquama’s site, as well as some other books that catch my eye, and thought I’d make quick comments on this month’s reading.
The Lost Revolution, by Robert Shaplen
I have a litmus test for books about Vietnam; if they suggest that the 1956 elections were put off because of corruption in the South and don’t at least equally emphasize the brutal repression in the North, I don’t think much of them. This is one of those books. The most interesting thing about it is that it was written by a leading Asia journalist and staff writer for the New Yorker. His core point is much better made in Rufus Phillips’ book below.
Prosperity & Violence: The Political economy of Development by Robert Bates
Interesting book, but I think he’s missing a few key points. I’ll do a longer review when I get some time. Don’t rush out and buy it, but it you trip over it and are interested in this stuff it’s an interesting read.
Koran, Kalashnikov and Laptop by Antonio Giustozzi
GREAT BOOK ON AFGHANISTAN. Did I say it was great? I bought a copy and loaned it to Biggest Guy. Buy and read this book.
This Man’s Army by Andrew Exum (abu muquama himself)
We’re about to see an interesting stream of memoirs by young, well-educated veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan. This book, and ‘The Unforgiving Minute’ below are two great examples of them. They give a real sense of what today’s military is like and when it’s like to step off a plane in Kabul and go into combat. Also sent this to Biggest Guy.
Dark Star Safari by Paul Theroux
Depressing. The ruins of Africa, after all that hope and aid. All the cynical NGO’s. Just depressing.
The Terrorist Identity by Michael Arena and Bruce Arrigo
Interesting specialist book. Tells more about the origins of the IRA, RAF, and other terrorist organizations than I’d known – so pretty good history and sociology of these groups. Worth the read, for sure.
On Suicide Bombing by Talal Asad
A key ‘Bad Philosophy’ book. I’ll also have a longer review on this. Don’t read it unless you enjoy Baudrillard.
The Unforgiving Minute by Craig Mullaney
Like Andy Exum’s book, it gave me a window into my son’s life. Well-written, smart, really interesting. I’d strongly recommend it as well – and a copy went out to BG as well.
Why Vietnam Matters, by Rufus Phillips
I saved the best for last. If you read any book on this list, read this one. In fact, if you’re planning on reading a book and care at all about American foreign policy, read this book. A clear-eyed look at the history of American involvement in Vietnam from someone who was there (he was Lansdale’s protege and Richard Holbrooke’s boss). I’ll be writing – a lot – about this book, and encourage you all to go and get a copy.
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