Land Between the Rivers

Land Between the Rivers by Bartle Bull is a sweeping historical epic that spans five thousand years of human civilization. Beginning with the legendary figure of Gilgamesh building the walls of Uruk at the dawn of recorded history, the narrative unfolds across millennia, culminating in the dramatic events of 1958 with the fall of Iraq’s last monarchy. This engrossing tale provides not just a history of a nation, but a panoramic view of the world through the lens of the region known as Mesopotamia—the cradle of civilization.

The book takes readers on a journey starting in ancient Sumer, highlighting key historical periods and figures that shaped not only Mesopotamia but influenced global history. The author's detailed research and vivid storytelling bring to life the dynamic interplay between East and West, the constant tensions and exchanges that have defined the region for thousands of years. From the grandeur of ancient empires to the pivotal moments that transformed societies, each chapter unravels the complex fabric of human progress and conflict.

Esteemed critics have lauded the book for its comprehensive scope and engaging narrative. Rory Stewart praises it as "elegant, erudite, ambitious, inventive - a remarkable blend of research, imagination, and first-hand experience." Meanwhile, Peter Frankopan describes it as "a work of great ambition… an account that is informed, filled with insights and a cracking read too."

Land Between the Rivers is the culmination of a decade of painstaking research, writing, and reflection by Bartle Bull. The book navigates through massive historical themes and provides a detailed account of Mesopotamia's significant role in global history. The story captures the essence of humanism clashing with power and fate, offering readers both an insightful historical record and a compelling narrative.

Overall, the book is an odyssey through time, exploring the rise and fall of empires, the birth of culture and civilisation, and the pivotal moments that have shaped the world as we know it today. An essential read for history enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone fascinated by the ancient world's enduring legacy.