Many readers praise the book for its engaging and conversational style, remarking that it feels as if the author is speaking directly to them. This approach makes the historical content highly accessible, easy to read, and prevents the reader from feeling bored or overwhelmed. Reviewers appreciate how the book quickly covers a variety of subjects related to late Ottoman and early Republican history, offering surprising insights and presenting historical truths in a striking manner. The work is lauded for providing a good, sometimes detailed summary of Turkey's last two centuries, placing historical events in context and even connecting them to contemporary issues. Its educational yet thought-provoking nature, coupled with the author's deep historical knowledge and unique perspectives, makes it a valuable resource for understanding a crucial period of Turkish history.
Disliked
Despite the overall positive reception, some readers expressed reservations. A recurring criticism concerns the interview sections included at the end of the book, with several reviewers finding them less engaging or feeling that such content could be easily accessed elsewhere. Some felt that certain parts of the book seemed unrelated to its main title, such as a section on Gaza, leading to a sense of disconnect. A few readers found the book to be more of the author's personal commentary rather than a comprehensive historical text, and one even described it as "mediocre" for not meeting their expectation of a textbook. Additionally, the presence of Ottoman Turkish words occasionally necessitated looking up definitions, which some found disruptive to the reading flow. The initial chapters were also noted by one reviewer as being a bit slow before the narrative gained momentum.
In short
Overall, the book is considered a classic by the author, highly recommended for its ability to illuminate lesser-known aspects of history in an enjoyable manner. It successfully narrates important events and influential figures during the transition from the late Ottoman Empire to the early Republic with a flowing style that avoids excessive detail. This book would particularly appeal to readers interested in a broad yet insightful overview of modern Turkish history, especially those who appreciate a conversational and accessible approach to historical subjects. It is ideal for individuals seeking to understand the historical roots of contemporary issues and for those who enjoy the author's distinctive style and deep historical understanding.