stevie_2e's review
4.0
I think I'm supposed to mention I won this book in a Goodreads give-aways. There, it has been mentioned, but I can say honestly that I would have gladly parted with the cover price.
Speaking of honesty, that is what touched me the most about this book. Some commented that the book wasn't particularly insightful or illuminating of the culture of Iraq. I feel a point was missed: right there in the title is a good clue that this book isn't about Iraq, it is about a woman whose life directed her to the Middle East. The book is insightful and illuminating about her. She exposes a great deal of vulnerability in how she conducted herself before and during her turn in Iraq. Gretchen allowed enough honesty for the reader to say "yes, I would do that" or "no way".
So why is insight in Gretchen an important thing? First, she is a solid writer with the ability to make one laugh right out loud. Second, she was brave enough to go where most of us would not dare, and even more daring? Being honest about the experience. Gretchen is relatable. Unless you're Suzy Orman, or those like her. If your life is THAT together, Gretchen's memoir might read more like a Stephen King novel.
There are a few poignant moments that I won't expand on out of respect for potential spoiler fodder. And I think some moments are more subtle than other, such as Gretchen and friends being in a position to question the validity of a crime committed against a co-worker. There's no need for 30 pages on the emotional turmoil it causes; you either get it or you don't and the reader is spared a lot of pointless thwacks over the head.
You won't learn much about Iraq, but you will learn about the author, and if you take the time, very likely a little more about yourself.
Speaking of honesty, that is what touched me the most about this book. Some commented that the book wasn't particularly insightful or illuminating of the culture of Iraq. I feel a point was missed: right there in the title is a good clue that this book isn't about Iraq, it is about a woman whose life directed her to the Middle East. The book is insightful and illuminating about her. She exposes a great deal of vulnerability in how she conducted herself before and during her turn in Iraq. Gretchen allowed enough honesty for the reader to say "yes, I would do that" or "no way".
So why is insight in Gretchen an important thing? First, she is a solid writer with the ability to make one laugh right out loud. Second, she was brave enough to go where most of us would not dare, and even more daring? Being honest about the experience. Gretchen is relatable. Unless you're Suzy Orman, or those like her. If your life is THAT together, Gretchen's memoir might read more like a Stephen King novel.
There are a few poignant moments that I won't expand on out of respect for potential spoiler fodder. And I think some moments are more subtle than other, such as Gretchen and friends being in a position to question the validity of a crime committed against a co-worker. There's no need for 30 pages on the emotional turmoil it causes; you either get it or you don't and the reader is spared a lot of pointless thwacks over the head.
You won't learn much about Iraq, but you will learn about the author, and if you take the time, very likely a little more about yourself.
mommaskeie's review
5.0
Amazing Author
This author truly has a talent and I read through this book in less than 12 hours. I highly recommend it.
This author truly has a talent and I read through this book in less than 12 hours. I highly recommend it.
shenling08's review
5.0
Such an interesting read, I was already invested after about 1/3 of the book. It’s culturally educational yet witty. I love how Gretchen describes the people whom she have met along the way. Makes me think that Iraq isn’t so bad to relocate to after all. I still adored Awat even after that twist towards the end.
familywithbooks's review
5.0
I saw a recommendation for this book on the website www.chicklitisnotdead.com and I just had to read it. I am so glad I did! This book sucked me in at the begining and I had a tough time putting it down. Parts of the book made me laugh, and it sometimes reminded me a bit of Jen Lancaster's style of writing (3 parts witty, 2 parts sarcasm, and 1 part footnotes). This memoir is written all from the POV of Gretchen Berg - how she accepted a teaching job in Iraq, getting herself and her belongings there, and then what she witnessed and learned about Iraq culture while teaching, looking for her soul mate, and travelling the world. If you are looking for an essay on Muslim culture look elsewhere. If you want an honest, unapologetic look at one American's time in Iraq with humor and a bit of shoe shopping thrown in for good measure, then this is the book for you! My only wish would be a "where are they now" section of where many of the people she came across are now. Highly recommend!
**Update** If you go to Gretchen Berg's website www.gretchenbergbooks.com there are pictures posted that correspond with specific chapters! Bonus!
**Update** If you go to Gretchen Berg's website www.gretchenbergbooks.com there are pictures posted that correspond with specific chapters! Bonus!
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