2007-12-16 A refreshing & kind travelogue through Islamic countries.

The author Jason Burke has written a book to be proud of with 'On the Road to Kandahar.' There is no denying that this book is a travelogue, however it is far more than a superficial travel diary. Jason Burke has spent over a decade in many Islamic countries including Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iraq. The considerable time he has spent traveling means he has learnt languages that enable him to get far closer to the people of the countries he is exploring. He talks to the people, he ask them questions, he learns about their customs and and the impact of religion in their lives. What makes this book such a worthwhile read is that it is written by a western writer, so readers can identify with his viewpoint, however he never makes generalisations of the people he meets. He ask political questions about the influence of Al-Qaeda, and the politics behind the new international TV channels, without prejudice against Islam. Burke is a great writer because he shares his travels with the reader which draws you in. He never comes across as pompous, and the book draws you in to his very real adventure.