Thieves of Baghdad - Book Review

Rick Baillergeon | December 16, 2005  | 0 comments  | Print  | E-mail

Near the conclusion of the book, Bogdanos discusses several of his investigative findings. These include: 1) What were the actions of U.S forces while the looting took place? 2) Who is truly to blame for the tragedy? 3) How many actual pieces were stolen from the Museum? 4) Who actually stole the Museum pieces? 5) Where are the stolen pieces today? 6) What is the market for these antiquities? Again, I hate to use the same words, but it is all fascinating stuff!

Perhaps, the one characteristic of the book that may turn some readers off is the author’s frequent use of quotes in the book. Throughout the pages, you will find Bogdanos uses dozens of historical quotes to reinforce his thoughts or opinions. Personally, I found the quotes refreshing and relevant to his subject matter. In my opinion, anyone who can utilize the words of Lawrence, Sophocles, Chesty Puller and particularly Field Marshal William Slim is all right in my book. However, I can see where this may detract or annoy a small number of readers.

In summary, Thieves of Baghdad is the perfect volume to pick up if your recent reading material has placed you in a bit of a rut. It is one of those rare books that will keep you guessing as to what lies ahead on the next page (or even paragraph). It is a book that will inform, entertain, and make you think. Is there anything more you would want from a book?

Perhaps, the most appropriate way to complement Bogdanos and Thieves of Baghdad is to use some words from the past. As Francis Bacon said, "Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested." Truly, Thieves of Baghdad is a book to be chewed and swallowed!

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