Libya

From School Library Journal
Grade 9 Up-This book emphasizes recent political developments; thus, the strongest chapters are those that recount the life of Qaddafi and deal with Libyan-U.S. relations. Here the scope is narrow enough for Gottfried to tell a complex story clearly. Making every effort to be evenhanded, he explains reasons for radical Libyan nationalism and points up instances when the U.S. intentionally provoked the desert nation. He stresses Qaddafi's support for a variety of terrorist movements, but acknowledges the improvements that the leader's revolution brought to the lives of most Libyans, as well as the setbacks that have come with interventions in other countries. The history chapters are less successful, since the political focus introduces a confusing array of dynasties, empires, and battles. Some details are misleading: a reference to Libya long ago being part of a "much larger North African nation"; describing the Byzantines as "Turkish"; and charging the 7th-century Arab invaders with "viciousness," generally attributed only to the Beni Hilal four centuries later. Much fuller explanation of the continuity over centuries of Libyan ways of life, Islamic groups, and values is needed. The black-and-white illustrations are well chosen, but the map is overly simple. Far more balanced and informative than Don Lawson's Libya and Qaddafi (Watts, 1987; o.p.), Gottfried's material on recent periods is particularly useful.Loretta Kreider Andrews, Enoch Pratt Free Library, BaltimoreCopyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist
Gr. 7-12. Although Gottfried provides some information about the early history of Libya and the foundations of Islam, his focus is on Libya's modern history, specifically on Quaddaffi's "administration." Quaddaffi's achievements and efforts to modernize Libya are not minimized, but Gottfried makes it quite clear that Quaddaffi is considered unbalanced and extremely dangerous by First World nations, supports terrorist activities, and faces opposition from Islamic fundamentalists in his own and in other Arab nations. Although Libya's terrain and relationships to other African, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean countries (including Italy, which controlled Libya from 1912 to World War II) are described, the one small map provided shows only parts of adjoining countries (and Tunisia is spelled incorrectly). More detailed maps would have been helpful, but students researching Arab-Israeli relations, northern African nations, or Quaddaffi himself will still find the account very useful. The volume is illustrated with black-and-white photographs, and a chronology and a bibliography (with mostly adult sources) are supplied. Chris Sherman

From Kirkus Reviews
Gottfried brings Libya's colorful political history to life in a well-written, in-depth summary that's remarkable for its balance in treating an avowed enemy of the US. After drawing readers' interest with examples of Libyan hostility toward America, he provides just enough background information (mentioning an American invasion in 1803) to set the stage for a thorough description of Muammar el-Qaddafi's rise to power and subsequent rule. While thoroughly condemning Libyan aggression and support of terrorism, Gottfried is careful to mention Qaddafi's social reforms, particularly the improvement in the status of women. Enlightening and informative. B&w photos; a few source notes; extensive chronology; basic ``Facts About Libya''; ``Recommended Reading'' (adult); index. (Nonfiction. 12+) -- Copyright ©1994, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.

Card catalog description
Discusses the geography, history, religion, and economy of this North African country, with an emphasis on its controversial dictator Muammar Qaddafi and its role in current affairs.


Buy from Amazon     Compare Prices

Although Gottfried provides some information about the early history of Libya and the foundations of Islam, his focus is on Libya's modern history, specifically on Quaddaffi's "administration." Quaddaffi's achievements and efforts to modernize Libya are not minimized, but Gottfried makes it quite clear that Quaddaffi is considered unbalanced and extremely dangerous by First World nations, supports terrorist activities, and faces opposition from Islamic fundamentalists in his own and in other Arab nations. Although Libya's terrain and relationships to other African, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean countries (including Italy, which controlled Libya from 1912 to World War II) are described, the one small map provided shows only parts of adjoining countries (and Tunisia is spelled incorrectly). More detailed maps would have been helpful, but students researching Arab-Israeli relations, northern African nations, or Quaddaffi himself will still find the account very useful. The volume is illustrated with black-and-white photographs, and a chronology and a bibliography (with mostly adult sources) are supplied.


Buy from Barnes & Noble     Compare Prices