Extreme Rambling: Walking Israel's Separation Barrier. For Fun. (2011)

Funny and poignant ( )

I really enjoy Mark Thomas's ability to treat serious issues with a twist of humour that enables people who wouldn't read a more heavyweight book (or watch TV programme) to become familiar with an issue. This book is no exception and it would be nice to see him write more.

In this book, Mark and his cameraman take a walk round Israel's illegal Separation Barrier, walking on both sides of the wall, with locals as guides, hosts and conversationalists. It's a moving, funny and witty description of the difficulties 'ordinary' people living by the wall have in trying to live their lives with a wall impinging on their life. His bewilderment at how some Israelis can justify the mistreatment of the Palestinians in the name of security is hauntingly genuine.

If you know very little about the situation in Israel, this is a good place to start; if you consider yourself to have a good understanding this provides a humane portrait of the reality; a light read of a heavy topic. ( )