In corners of the globe where fault-lines see the into bloodshed and civil war, foreign correspondents have, for hundreds of years, been engaged in uncovering the latest news and – despite obstacles bureaucratic, political, violent – reporting it by whatever means available. It’s a working life that is difficult, exciting and undeniably glamorous.
We Chose to Speak of War and Strife brings us pivotal moments in our history – from the Crimean War to Vietnam; the siege of Sarajevo to the fall of Baghdad – through the eyes of those who risked life and limb to witness them first hand, and the astonishing tales of what it took to report them.
Weaving the tales of the greats of yesterday and today, such as Martha Gellhorn, Ernest Hemingway, Don McCullin and Marie Colvin, with extraordinary accounts from his own lifetime on the frontlines, this is a deeply personal book from a master of the profession, the most distinguished foreign correspondent of our time.
This non-fiction book was selected to be part of the Radio 2: Fact Not Fiction Book Club with our panellists stating:
“I really liked the book. It was very though provoking and covers modern history but in a very honest way. The writing is straight to the point and tells history in a way that is accessible to all. It is a book that is a talking point and yet delivers. I think the writing is very reflective without any obvious bias.”
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