Review by MrsTurner2013 -- Divided World

[MrsTurner2013]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Divided World" by Kenneth Pickering.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Have you ever wondered what it was like to live in a police state? Do you wish to see what that does to the everyday person? Divided World: Plays on Occupation and Dispossession by Kenneth Pickering is a compilation of plays written by multiple playwrights about the occupation of the Middle East. The occupations discussed are ones involving Britain, France, Israel, and the United States. It expresses the political situation of the Middle East and its impact on Arabic communities. Each play depicts everyday life for someone under occupation and the immense difficulties that are involved. This compilation of plays is an informative, eye-opening tale that one will be reading for hours.

A religion that is sprinkled throughout the compilation is Islam. A familiarity of Islam would clarify certain references but is not crucial to the story. Things are mentioned throughout the book such as the aspect of multiple virgins after death and the ability to marry a plethora of women. Such things are references to the Islamic belief. The book is not a resource for learning about the Islamic religion.

A rating of 4 out of 4 is awarded this compilation of plays. A lower rating is not called for due to a lack of both grammar and spelling errors. The voice that is given to the Arabic people through this collection is astounding and deserving of its people. It is an avenue that gives a voice to the voiceless. A forgotten and unmentioned side of the police state and political occupation is brought to attention within its pages. It is an astonishing piece of literature.

There are multiple things that were liked in the book. The most liked was the fair but honest depiction of life within the occupation. Issues pertaining to human rights are discussed and the general attitude of the plays is one of respect for other nations despite the inequality. There was nothing disliked within this expression of political oppression. The reviewer feels that it is a cry for equality that needs to be answered.

The audience who would enjoy this book would be particularly interested in human rights and views of other cultures. Ones who are interested in learning about a police state or occupation and the effects of the political implications will find it fascinating. Multiple insinuations and mild descriptions of oral sexual favors are throughout its pages. This aspect of the book may not be fit for all readers.

Divided World: Plays on Occupation and Dispossession by Kenneth Pickering is a stunning read for all who are intrigued by its concepts.

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Divided World
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[MsH2k]

In sampling this book, it seems like a well-written and interesting collection. Thank you for your thorough review.