Jerusalem cover art

Jerusalem

The Biography – A History of the Middle East

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Jerusalem

By: Simon Sebag Montefiore
Narrated by: John Lee
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About this listen

A new, updated, revised edition of JERUSALEM: THE BIOGRAPHY, the wider history of the Middle East through the lens of the Holy City, from King David to today.

The story of Jerusalem is the story of the world.

Jerusalem is the universal city, the capital of two peoples, the shrine of three faiths; it is the site of Judgement Day and the battlefield of today's clash of civilisations. How did this small, remote town become the Holy City, the 'centre of the world' and now the key to peace in the Middle East? Drawing on new archives and a lifetime's study, Montefiore reveals this ever-changing city through the wars, love affairs and revelations of the kings, empresses, prophets, poets, saints, conquerors and whores who created, destroyed, chronicled and believed in Jerusalem.

A classic of modern literature, this is not only the epic story of 3,000 years of faith, slaughter, fanaticism and co-existence, but also a freshly-updated history of the entire Middle East, from King David to the twenty-first century, from the birth of Judaism, Christianity and Islam to the Israel-Palestine conflict and the wars of today. This is how Jerusalem became Jerusalem - the only city that exists twice - in heaven and on earth.

©2011 Simon Sebag Montefiore (P)2011 Random House Audio Israel & Palestine Middle East Middle Ages Africa Imperialism Judaism War Iran Ottoman Empire Refugee Winston Churchill Royalty Holocaust Crusade Ancient History

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All stars
Most relevant  
Is brilliant, full of lots of info, Jerusalem is a crazy place, so much death and blood for the love of the same god, am gonna listen to this book again,, today..

This book

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A vivid tour de force condensing millennia of history into page upon page of the most vivid storytelling.

Jerusalem in the palm of your hand

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An extremely well researched and written book about the most complicated and interesting of cities.

Historical Epic

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Would you say that listening to this book was time well-spent? Why or why not?

There was a lot in this book that was interesting and informative but it somehow couldn't hold my attention for long periods of time. In small chunks I found it worthwhile and I never felt like giving up on it but often took a break from it. As a result, it took me a lot longer than usual to get through it.

Would you recommend Jerusalem to your friends? Why or why not?

Probably not. I might suggest it to a friend who had an interest in the subject but I don't think it would inspire anyone if the interest wasn't already there.

What about John Lee’s performance did you like?

I had no problem with John Lee's narration It suited the subject.

Did Jerusalem inspire you to do anything?

No.

Any additional comments?

I started off being very interested but as the book went on, each episode seemed to be dealt with in the same way and at a similar pace. It is a long book and my interest steadily waned. I always listen to unabridged versions but perhaps, in this case, I would have been better making an exception.

Interesting but ultimately too long

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If you have any desire to understand the current situation in the Middle East this is a great place to start. Seeing how the region has changed over the centuries helps to tie together very complex strands that are otherwise impossible to appreciate. This is a work of incredible breadth, staggering research and yet retains charm by way of delightful excursions and meanders. There are so many great characters brought to life that will provide you with the impetus for further research. 25 hours well spent!
A note on the voice, I wasn't that happy with it from the sample but it grows on you and he does a great job.

Vitally important book

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A great book almost ruined by weird narration. The narrator sounds oddly computer generated (perhaps he is), a bad let down for what is certainly a good book, it makes it quite tough to listen too.

Almost ruined by terrible narration.

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An amazing journey through time of Jerusalem. The most interesting and special place on earth. I’m a Christian and this is a good book to get greater detailed knowledge of Jerusalem through the ages. Extremely well read. Very easy to listen to. Very well written as well. I would recommend this book to anyone.

Beautiful Jerusalem

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All credit look it’s just great get it and stop forcing me to write more words I want to start Stalin

Just get it now!

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A very interesting biography of Jerusalem.
John Lee's narration, as usual was perfect. I highly recommend this audiobook.

Informative

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... Really illustrates the sad history behind the current situation between the two (or three) parties involved in the ongoing crisis. It’s an enlightening book that avoids taking a favorable position in its storytelling.
Recommended.

This book

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