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What is more remarkable, though, is the way Mr. Burton selects and portrays his characters. Throughout the book, the focus shifts in short chapters from one character to another, allowing the reader to see through many different pairs of eyes. The reader is permitted to look into the mind of ordinary women from both Saudi Arabia and the United States, foreign intelligence operatives in Saudi Arabia, Saudi Arabian law enforcement, informants, reluctant terrorists, repentant terrorists, enthusiastic terrorists, and resigned terrorists.The variety of perspectives gives the book an intricacy that brings the problems between the United States and the Middle East, as well as the problems within the Middle East, into the light of complexity that they truly merit.
After reading a book like this, the reader is sure to adopt a more measured perspective on the violence that engulfs international affairs. It would be impossible to argue in total favor of the United States’ policies, and likewise, it would be impossible to argue in total opposition to the same. Yet, Mr. Burton doesn’t abandon his reader to this ethical and political debate, but provides wisdom through the mouths of his characters to show his reader how he sees the problem, and what he wishes the solution could be, were it only possible. (I won’t give that one away. Read the book.) Most of the characters are very much a product of their environments, and this distinction from true inhumanity is a crucial truth that is too frequently missing from American political discussion.
But beyond the theoretical reasons why this book is so excellent, it bears mentioning that it is also incredibly well-written. Each character has his or her own voice, and the thought processes that drive them are subtly apparent, such that the reader can believe in the feasible existence of each character. Moreover, the book is character-driven, rather than plot-driven, which is a break from the norm for the political thriller/suspense-type genre. It is abundantly clear that the book is intended to be true to life, and in my opinion, it has succeeded.
I am happy to rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. In addition to capturing the reader, Energy Dependence Day will also provoke thoughtful discussion of events and trends that affect our daily lives. Mr. Burton shows his readership the value of considering the consequences of actions, not just to oneself, but also to those on the peripheries. Anyone who has watched the news in the last 13 years, this book is for you.
***
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