This is an audacious book that tackles a host of hot issues. It might be seen less as an account of the "Israeli-Arab Tragedy" and more of a critical look at Israel's history its forays into the region and the world. Ben-Ami provides a critical, clear, and straightforward appraisal of Zionism, Israel's conflicts, and the leaders who have made the nation what it is today. At the same time, he also keeps the reader well informed of what was going on with other players, like the Egyptians, the Jordanians, the Palestinians, and the Syrians. This is a masterpiece that paints a troubled history with fantastic style. He is really a story-teller. Anyone seeking to understand how the situation in the Middle East has gotten to where it is should not miss this book.