Review by justhereader -- A Dream For Peace

Justine Ocsebio · Post by **Justine Ocsebio** » 10 Feb 2021, 20:22

[Following is a volunteer review of "A Dream For Peace" by Dr. Ghoulem Berrah.]

4 out of 4 stars

Share This Review

A Dream For Peace by Dr. Ghoulem Berrah is a memoir that chronicles Dr. Berrah’s life as an exemplary diplomat, a brilliant advisor to President Houphouët-Boigny, the first scientist to come up with the hypothesis on the Reverse Transcriptase Enzyme, and an activist during the Algerian revolution. On top of all his remarkable accomplishments, Dr. Berrah was a passionate advocate for peace and tolerance for all religions.

The book scrutinizes Algeria’s colonial legacy, the tension between Israel and Palestine, and the power struggle between nations during the Cold War. It also features the religious beliefs and practices of Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, and Jews. There are old photographs throughout the book that will further enrich one’s reading experience.

This memoir was heavy on politics and history, but the inclusion of the author’s sentiments prevented this book from becoming a tedious read. The author’s reflections are poignant and heartfelt, allowing his private affairs to stand out in this book. Consequently, it leaves an impact on the reader, despite the simplicity of the language.

I additionally like the educational aspect of the book. There were insights into various religions Dr. Berrah has come to learn and understand during his lifetime. For example, during his visit to a Buddhist friend, Dr. Berrah sees his friend’s wife patiently tending to her plants. Some of her orchids will take years to bloom, and she might never live long enough to see them flourish. She isn’t doing it for herself, though, but for somebody in the future who will benefit from the fruits of her labor. Dr. Berrah believes that this act is a sacrifice, a moral obligation similar to Islam and Christianity. In every encounter such as this, Dr. Berrah has something meaningful to pick up. As I reflected, I realized that it wasn’t mere curiosity that motivated Dr. Berrah to learn about all religions. It was his deep and profound desire to truly understand and find their common ground.

Dr. Berrah is a brilliant ambassador, a loving husband, a patriot, and a compassionate man who lives up to his faith. Apart from being educational, this memoir bears emotional resonance. Hence, my rating is 4 out of 4 stars. Dr. Berrah’s aspirations for a better world made me want to be more compassionate and hopeful. I can neither say anything I dislike nor find any errors. The editing quality is excellent.

I recommend this book to anyone with a keen interest in the perils of colonization, the intricacies of diplomacy, and the teachings of different religions. Due to its wealth of information, this book will be a great academic resource as well. However, this is less suitable for readers who are not inclined to read political or historical memoirs.

******
A Dream For Peace
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Eutoc · Post by **Eutoc** » 15 Feb 2021, 08:26

I enjoy history books but political history, uhhm, I don't think they're my thing. Thanks for the detailed review

Post by **kandscreeley** » 15 Feb 2021, 17:38

I'm glad you appreciated this one. The photos would be helpful to picture everything. I'm just not into history. Thanks, though.

Mtibza eM · Post by **Mtibza eM** » 16 Feb 2021, 04:41

I have started on this book, and so far so good. Can't wait to finish it. Great review!

NetMassimo · Post by **NetMassimo** » 16 Feb 2021, 04:56

This seems like an interesting book of memoirs concerning recent history with insight seen from within the diplomacy world. Thank you for your great review!

Chizioboli · Post by **Chizioboli** » 16 Feb 2021, 05:58

I once had a conversation with a peace ambassador and your review explicitly contains all that he told me. Peace is altered or disrupted when we meddle wrongly with politics, history and power. I look forward to reading this book to learn more from this author

Yvonne Monique · Post by **Yvonne Monique** » 17 Feb 2021, 14:04

This man has led an amazing life, definitely worth writing down in a memoir. Thanks for a great review.

Timothee22 · Post by **Timothee22** » 13 May 2022, 16:38

Yvonne Monique wrote: ↑17 Feb 2021, 14:04 This man has led an amazing life, definitely worth writing down in a memoir. Thanks for a great review.

Yeah, It seemed to me like a man who had a great life, which didn't start out very great. With the death of his father and the colonization of his beloved country.

Hakeem nuel · Post by **Hakeem nuel** » 14 May 2023, 09:09

This book takes us back to history and how France colonized African countries. It was really interesting and engaging.

Cesyao · Post by **Cesyao** » 05 Jun 2023, 00:28

I couldn't put this book down! A Dream for Peace kept me engaged from the first page to the last.

Elvischukwu · Post by **Elvischukwu** » 05 Jun 2023, 01:07

Dr. Ghoulem's prose is eloquent and evocative, transporting readers to the heart of the characters' struggles and triumphs.

Kelvin Modilim · Post by **Kelvin Modilim** » 17 Jun 2023, 19:02

This book serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the Algerian people and their enduring pursuit of freedom, inspiring readers with its portrayal of courage and determination.