Review by Tayejim1 -- Divided World by Kenneth Pickering

[Tayejim1]

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

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4 out of 4 stars

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A critical look at humanity in general shows a consistent trend. Things are falling apart. Unity is disappearing. Chaos, hatred, racism, anarchy, and other vile traits have taken over the world. In many parts of the world, governmental systems have become deficient. The plays in Divided World by Kenneth Pickering depict the tumultuous conditions we all have to endure.

The book is a compilation of plays by four playwrights. Kenneth Pickering is one of them. Others include Hannah Khalil, Hassan Abdulrazzak, and Kate Al Hadid. Before a presentation of each play, the author of the play is introduced in a short profile. The book opens with a play by Kenneth Pickering. It is titled Exploring the Boundaries. It is written as a duologue between Sir Sykes and Picot. It is widely accepted that the Sykes-Picot agreement created the modern Middle East. In the play, Sykes and Picot engage in a discussion as they take a walk around the city walls of York. It is an intellectual debate where each craftily seeks his own advantage.

In a play titled The Several Beheadings of Ashraf Fayadh by Hassan Abdulrazzak, a foreigner sitting at a public bar is closely watched by a native. The atmosphere is tense and suspicious. The natives believe that foreigners are only out to corrupt their youths by eroding their faith in God and their loyalty to the state. It is a depiction of modern realities in some parts of the Middle East.

All the plays were beautifully written. The touch of professionalism is acute. The characters possess depth. Some of the playwrights are famous and internationally acclaimed. My favorite play is A Very Short Play for Syria by Hannah Khalil. I was captivated by the musings of the protagonist. The situation of things in her country is bordering on chaotic. Yet, she has to find a way to keep body and soul together. The author's imaginative mind shines through this unique piece. I was so engrossed in her predicament that I lost awareness of my surroundings. It was a beautiful piece.

All the plays were professionally edited.
My least favorite part of the book is the introduction at the beginning of the book. This part has not been professionally edited. It was riddled with typographical errors. Another round of editing would take care of these errors. I would rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. The plays were splendid and error-free. Adult readers with interests in the Middle East would find this book engaging.

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Divided World
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[Eriny Youssef]

Such a great review, I loved both examples you discussed. Thanks for sharing.

[Mariana Figueira]

I think this is the first time I've seen a review here about a play, how interesting. Thank you for the awesome review!

[Tayejim1]

Such a great review, I loved both examples you discussed. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[Tayejim1]

I think this is the first time I've seen a review here about a play, how interesting. Thank you for the awesome review!

Thanks for stopping by.