Baghdad Burning by Ahdaf (FWD) Soueif, Riverbend (2005, Paperback)

I was in Baghdad in 2005 and like to read about the Iraqi people and how they are surviving the war. I am speaking of the innocent Iraqis. I can't imagine being a citizen of Baghdad and trying to cope with what the insurgents are doing to their country. People don't realize how fortunate we are living in America. Overall, I am enjoying reading the book. However, on the downside and had I known this before hand, I wouldn't have made the purchase. The name of Susan Sarandon appears on the front cover telling us why we need to read this book. Sarandon doesn't speak for me and why in the world the author would agree to have her make any statement is beyond me. Sarandon, in my opinion is just another un-patriotic hate-America movie actress. Since Sarandon thinks America is so bad, I think she needs to hop a military flight to Baghdad, and then get dropped off on Haifa Street at three in the morning. She then would no doubt be crying and begging for our military to come rescue her. However, I am glad that the author was fortunate enough to be able to come to America. I am sure her life here is far better than the war-torn Baghdad she left behind. Perhaps our efforts in liberating Iraq will pay off in the future and the Middle East will once again live in harmony and peace. War is not perfect and if Saddam had left the country when ordered to, then there probably wouldn't have been any coalition attacks on the city. I am no axpert but I pray that the Iraqis who are part of the UN Relocation plan that allows them to come to America appreciate what we are doing for them and what opportunities living in America offers. This is the greatest county in the world and Riverbend is very fortunate to enjoy what we have to offer. David Patton