Homelands

Homelands by Timothy Garton Ash is a masterful blend of contemporary history, reporting, and memoir that delves into the evolving landscape of Europe over the past seventy years. This compelling narrative captures Europe's journey from the ruins of World War II to its attempts at unity and peace, the hurdles it faced, and the crises that challenged its ideals.

Drawing on fifty years of interviews, experiences, and personal memories, Garton Ash chronicles the continent's transformation from a war-torn landscape to a model of democracy and collaboration. The book reveals how Europe rebuilt itself from the devastation of 1945, striving towards the ideal of a 'whole, free, and at peace' continent. Yet, the narrative also lays bare the faltering steps and missteps that followed, including the financial crisis of 2008 and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Timothy Garton Ash has spent his life immersed in the study of Europe, and his insights are as profound as they are personal. The book is a rich tapestry of vivid encounters and evocative anecdotes. From his father's poignant WWII memories to his own interviews with Polish dockworkers, Albanian guerrillas, and disenchanted youth in Paris, Ash conveys a deeply human aspect to historical events. His advisory roles to prime ministers, chancellors, and presidents in the UK, Europe, and the US lend additional gravitas to his observations.

Homelands is a living, breathing history of a period marked by unprecedented progress and formidable challenges. Garton Ash's clear-eyed analysis of Europe's rollercoaster journey provides a candid look at how far the continent has come, and how its path has diverged from its lofty post-war visions. At its core, this book serves as an urgent call to the citizens of Europe to cherish, understand, and safeguard the remarkable achievements of their shared history.

Acclaimed by critics and readers alike, Lea Ypi, author of Free, describes it as 'a moving love letter to Europe'. Homelands is more than just a historical account; it is an evocative and impassioned plea to embrace and defend the ideals that have shaped modern Europe.