Gentle Friends,
I recently completed reading the book, Desert Queen by Janet Wallach (ISBN: 1-4000-9619-7). The book chronicles the life of Gertrude Bell (1868-1926). Gertrude Bell was a child of privilege who was one of the first women to be admitted to the University of Oxford where she excelled in her studies. After completing college, she turned away from the wealthy world of the "eminent Victorians" and began a grand adventure.
Her travels took her to the middle east where she explored the desert, mapped the countryside, and excavated historic sites. She was accepted by and became friends with influential Arabs with whom she played a significant role in securing vital information for the British during World War I.
After the war, she was instrumental in establishing the present day borders of Iraq. She also worked diligently to create Arab rule in Arab countries. Her work and her influence continue to be felt today.
I highly recommend this book to you. The story of Gertrude Bell is a fascinating one and her role in the middle east during World War I was of huge significance. You will not regret reading this book and informing yourself of the life of this very special lady.
Warmest personal regards,
Pat
I recently completed reading the book, Desert Queen by Janet Wallach (ISBN: 1-4000-9619-7). The book chronicles the life of Gertrude Bell (1868-1926). Gertrude Bell was a child of privilege who was one of the first women to be admitted to the University of Oxford where she excelled in her studies. After completing college, she turned away from the wealthy world of the "eminent Victorians" and began a grand adventure.
Her travels took her to the middle east where she explored the desert, mapped the countryside, and excavated historic sites. She was accepted by and became friends with influential Arabs with whom she played a significant role in securing vital information for the British during World War I.
After the war, she was instrumental in establishing the present day borders of Iraq. She also worked diligently to create Arab rule in Arab countries. Her work and her influence continue to be felt today.
I highly recommend this book to you. The story of Gertrude Bell is a fascinating one and her role in the middle east during World War I was of huge significance. You will not regret reading this book and informing yourself of the life of this very special lady.
Warmest personal regards,
Pat