Avishai, Bernard : The Tragedy of Zionism - Revolution and Democracy In the Land Of Israel

Avishai is a young American who, like many of his generation, has had life-long interest and personal involvement in Israel. Like many others, he tried to settle in Israel, but for a variety of reasons could not adjust to life there. He has been writing about current affairs in Israel and the Middle East for a number of years and this volume represents the culmination of his assessments to date. The first part is a brief summary of the history of Zionism leading to the establishment of the State of Israel. The second part deals with the period after 1948 and includes both previous observations by the author as well as fresh insights, many critical of Israeli policy. The conclusions in this book clearly will not please all readers, which is perhaps exactly why it should be read. Recommended.
Jehuda Reinharz, Near Eastern & Judaic Studies Dept., Brandeis Univ., Waltham, Mass.