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Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth Kindle Edition
by Noa Tishby (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars (3,616)
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A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
A “fascinating and very moving” (Aaron Sorkin, award-winning screenwriter of The West Wing and The Social Network) chronological timeline spanning from Biblical times to today that explores one of the most interesting countries in the world—Israel.
Israel. The small strip of arid land is 5,700 miles away but remains a hot-button issue and a thorny topic of debate. But while everyone seems to have a strong opinion about Israel, how many people actually know the facts?
Here to fill in the information gap is Israeli American Noa Tishby. But “this is not your Bubbie’s history book” (Bill Maher, host of Real Time with Bill Maher). Instead, offering a fresh, 360-degree view, Tishby brings her “passion, humor, and deep intimacy” (Yossi Klein Halevi, New York Times bestselling author of Letters to My Palestinian Neighbor) to the subject, creating an accessible and dynamic portrait of a tiny country of outsized relevance. Through bite-sized chunks of history and deeply personal stories, Tishby chronicles her homeland’s evolution, beginning in Biblical times and moving forward to cover everything from WWI to Israel’s creation to the disputes dividing the country today. Tackling popular misconceptions with an abundance of facts, Tishby provides critical context around headline-generating controversies and offers a clear, intimate account of the richly cultured country of Israel.
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The conflict is not between the Palestinians and the Israelis. It’s between the Arab world and Israel.
Highlighted by 1,112 Kindle readers
The Arabs were also granted a state at the time, but they chose to refuse it and start a war. I heard people call Israel a colonialist state, which is absurd, as it is a refugee state that was decolonized from British rule. I heard some people call Israel an apartheid state, which is also absurd when you know that the third largest political party in Israel is an Arab party.
Highlighted by 859 Kindle readers
Product description
About the Author
Noa Tishby is the New York Times bestselling author of Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth and Israel’s former Special Envoy for Combatting Antisemitism and Delegitimization. A native of Tel Aviv, she served in the Israeli army before moving to Los Angeles and launching a career in the entertainment industry. An award-winning producer, Tishby made history with the sale of In Treatment to HBO, the first Israeli television show to become an American series. One of the most visible activists on social media, Tishby is the founder of several nonprofit organizations, including Act for Israel and Eighteen, which combats antisemitism and inspires Jewish pride. She lives in Los Angeles and is a proud Jewish mother to her son, Ari.
Product details
ASIN : B08BZX1WBY
Publisher : Free Press
Accessibility : Learn more
Publication date : 6 April 2021
Language : English
File size : 5.2 MB
Screen Reader : Supported
Enhanced typesetting : Enabled
X-Ray : Enabled
Word Wise : Enabled
Print length : 342 pages
ISBN-13 : 978-1982144951
Page Flip : Enabled
Best Sellers Rank: 30,292 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)8 in History of Israel & Palestine
8 in 21st Century World History
13 in Israeli History
Customer Reviews:
4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars (3,616)
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Noa Tishby
Noa Tishby is a NY Times best-selling author and Israel’s former Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism and Delegitimization.
A Tel Aviv native, Tishby served in the Israeli army before landing a starring role on the nation’s highest-rated prime time drama. After becoming a household name in Israel and appearing in numerous TV shows, films, theater productions and fashion campaigns, Tishby moved to Los Angeles, where she sold the Israeli TV show “In Treatment” to HBO, which made history as the first Israeli TV show to become an American series. “In Treatment” was nominated for fourteen Emmy and Golden Globes and won a Peabody Award.
Noa has been a leader in pro-Israel activism for over a decade, co-founding and initiating several organizations and projects, including Act for Israel, Reality Israel and Eighteen: an institute to combat antisemitism and inspire Jewish pride.
Noa has been a guest on Real Time with Bill Maher and appeared on networks such as CNN, MSNBC, Fox and PBS. She also spoke at the Capitol for a Congressional Hearing on online antisemitism in her capacity as Israel’s first Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism, and testified in front of the Committee on Ways and Means about the connection between campus antisemitism and terrorism financing, which was the catalyst for the catastrophic hearing of Harvard Penn and MIT presidents and the following resignation of Harvard’s Gay and Penn’s Magill. Tishby recently addressed members of Congress again in a hearing exposing gender-based violence of the October 7th massacre.
Tishby is the author of the New York Times bestseller Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth and is among the best known pro-Israel figures on social and legacy media, her content reaching millions of people daily across all platforms.
Tishby recently announced her second book: Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew, cowritten with NY Times best-selling author Emmanuel Acho, forthcoming from Simon Element, Simon & Schuster, April 30, 2024
Tishby resides in Los Angeles and she is a proud Jewish mother to her son Ari.
“…Tishby has become a dominant and provocative voice on a war that is being fought in the Middle East and also on television, social media, and American streets and college campuses.
She is the voice of this Jewish generation.”
-The NY Times-
Customers say
Customers find this book engaging and well-written, providing a comprehensive discussion of Israel's history. They appreciate its well-researched content, with one customer noting how it helps understand the geopolitical issues.
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Top reviews from Australia
3 people found this helpful
Helpful
BSG_Fan
5.0 out of 5 stars KosherReviewed in Australia on 1 June 2024
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have always wondered why people dislike Israel and its people so much. This book gave me a a fascinating and interesting tour through the ages providing great context, in a balanced (in my view) way. The author is obviously a very intelligent person with great wit and a very dry and ironic sense of humour. I bought this book, and one about Hamas, so I could be better informed about what is happening in that space; now I feel I am. An excellent read ;-D
3 people found this helpful
HelpfulReport
Punga
5.0 out of 5 stars Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on EarthReviewed in Australia on 30 January 2026
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
This book is essential reading for anyone who 'believes' they already understand the historical time line for Israel, you will, by the end of the book understand your own level of misunderstanding.
Thank you so much Noa for having the conviction to write your hook, which should be read by every student in every school around the globe as part of the world history curriculum.
I was born in 1959, and to date have witnessed the scope of the hell that both Israel and 'the people's of The West Bank and Gaza have lived through, and can only hope and wish that the 2 state solution will be achieved in my lifetime.
HelpfulReport
Maria Reynolds
4.0 out of 5 stars A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on earthReviewed in Australia on 16 December 2023
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Great read. Thank you Noa Tishby for helping me understand why Israel is the Most Misunderstood Country on earth
.
4 people found this helpful
HelpfulReport
Terry Newman
5.0 out of 5 stars Tjos book is even sadder since October 7Reviewed in Australia on 6 October 2024
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Regrettably the glimmers of hope Noa raises in the book seem to have disappeared.
Nevertheless it is essential reading for someone to understand the issues and challe
nges for Israel. I w wish we could force the whole world to read it.
Especially all participants in UN organisations
3 people found this helpful
HelpfulReport
Sharon Melamed
5.0 out of 5 stars Must read book for anyone interested in Middle East peaceReviewed in Australia on 7 January 2024
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
This book is full of facts and figures about the history of Israel interwoven with moving and sometimes funny personal anecdotes. For anyone commenting on social media on the current war or seeking to arm themselves with indisputable facts, I highly recommend this book. It challenges many preconceptions about “the most misunderstood country in the world.”
5 people found this helpful
HelpfulReport
Banjo
5.0 out of 5 stars We all need to read itReviewed in Australia on 25 March 2024
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I got sick of all the criticism being written daily in the papers & decided to learn for my self about the Jews. And what a remarkable race they are! I understand why people have a problem with them, they’re far too honest & decent for most people with a strong sense of right & family. I have huge admiration for this maligned people who too many are jealous of.
9 people found this helpful
HelpfulReport
Rebecca C
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent, Excellent bookReviewed in Australia on 27 February 2022
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
What a beautifully written book, taking on the immensely complex subject of Israel and breaking it down to such an understandable level. This book should be compulsory reading for anyone interested in Middle East events or History. Thanks Noa
12 people found this helpful
HelpfulReport
See more reviews
Top reviews from other countries
Translate all reviews to English
M1
5.0 out of 5 stars Good and informativeReviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 February 2026
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Easy to read and very informative.
Report
Danielle B. Ptak
5.0 out of 5 stars IncrivelReviewed in Brazil on 13 October 2021
Format: HardcoverVerified Purchase
Valeu esperar, é best seller!!
Report
Translate review to English
Laura Rebecca Rau
5.0 out of 5 stars Informativ, unterhaltsam, bewegendReviewed in Germany on 9 January 2025
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Noa Tishby ist sowieso eine tolle Frau, Rednerin und Aktivistin für Israel und in diesem Buch bechreibt sie spannend, unterhaltsam und kompetent die komplexe und hochemotionale Geschichte dieses fantastischen Landes. Authentisch, erhellend und absolut grundlegendes Wissen, empfehlenswert!!!
Report
Translate review to English
Chey G
5.0 out of 5 stars Knowledgable and entertainingReviewed in India on 18 January 2026
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Excellent book. The author takes the reader through all the arguments placed against Israel and refutes it. This is the book to go to if you want to listen to Israel’s side of the arguments. However, this is written pre October 7 2023, therefore refer to Douglas Murray’s books for a more rounded experience.
Report
Hokkaido Vacation User
5.0 out of 5 stars She is fair, factual, balanced. Provides a lot of necessary information to understandReviewed in Japan on 26 December 2023
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Noa Tishby has done what so many people have not been able to do. To clearly, factually, and personally explain what Israel is. She does it be writing in a style that average Americans can understand easily. So it is not difficult reading. I encourage people to buy and read this book.
Report
See more reviews
Roger Mendelson
5.0 out of 5 stars An essential read for anyone interested in world peace
Reviewed in Australia on 16 June 2024
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Noa writes in a personal and passionate way and interweaves her personal story into the book.
However, don’t be fooled. This is a serious book, incorporating 3,000 years of history and is as well documented as most serious academic works.
Her style is casual but she is a passionate advocate and relates to her audience, which is basically people who don’t read history.
I learnt a lot from this book and am grateful that Noa wrote it. It is a very readable but major work.
Roger Mendelson
3 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
BSG_Fan
5.0 out of 5 stars Kosher
Reviewed in Australia on 1 June 2024
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have always wondered why people dislike Israel and its people so much. This book gave me a a fascinating and interesting tour through the ages providing great context, in a balanced (in my view) way. The author is obviously a very intelligent person with great wit and a very dry and ironic sense of humour. I bought this book, and one about Hamas, so I could be better informed about what is happening in that space; now I feel I am. An excellent read ;-D
3 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
Punga
5.0 out of 5 stars Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth
Reviewed in Australia on 30 January 2026
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
This book is essential reading for anyone who 'believes' they already understand the historical time line for Israel, you will, by the end of the book understand your own level of misunderstanding.
Thank you so much Noa for having the conviction to write your hook, which should be read by every student in every school around the globe as part of the world history curriculum.
I was born in 1959, and to date have witnessed the scope of the hell that both Israel and 'the people's of The West Bank and Gaza have lived through, and can only hope and wish that the 2 state solution will be achieved in my lifetime.
Helpful
Report
Maria Reynolds
4.0 out of 5 stars A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on earth
Reviewed in Australia on 16 December 2023
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Great read. Thank you Noa Tishby for helping me understand why Israel is the Most Misunderstood Country on earth
.
4 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
Terry Newman
5.0 out of 5 stars Tjos book is even sadder since October 7
Reviewed in Australia on 6 October 2024
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Regrettably the glimmers of hope Noa raises in the book seem to have disappeared.
Nevertheless it is essential reading for someone to understand the issues and challe
nges for Israel. I w wish we could force the whole world to read it.
Especially all participants in UN organisations
3 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
Sharon Melamed
5.0 out of 5 stars Must read book for anyone interested in Middle East peace
Reviewed in Australia on 7 January 2024
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
This book is full of facts and figures about the history of Israel interwoven with moving and sometimes funny personal anecdotes. For anyone commenting on social media on the current war or seeking to arm themselves with indisputable facts, I highly recommend this book. It challenges many preconceptions about “the most misunderstood country in the world.”
5 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
Banjo
5.0 out of 5 stars We all need to read it
Reviewed in Australia on 25 March 2024
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I got sick of all the criticism being written daily in the papers & decided to learn for my self about the Jews. And what a remarkable race they are! I understand why people have a problem with them, they’re far too honest & decent for most people with a strong sense of right & family. I have huge admiration for this maligned people who too many are jealous of.
9 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
Rebecca C
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent, Excellent book
Reviewed in Australia on 27 February 2022
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
What a beautifully written book, taking on the immensely complex subject of Israel and breaking it down to such an understandable level. This book should be compulsory reading for anyone interested in Middle East events or History. Thanks Noa
12 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
JOHN MILLS
2.0 out of 5 stars Intention versus Impression
Reviewed in Australia on 16 October 2023
Verified Purchase
I have no doubt that the author’s intentions were honourable and wholesome. All authors want to be judged in that light. That goal is successful when the impression matches the intention. And here is the problem with the book.
I have been reading history for decades and have saved those books the intention of which have matched the impression they left with me. I was expecting a serious albeit succinct history of Israel. It wasn’t until page 22 that the history began. Up until then it was a history about the author and I could not resist the feeling (here read impression) that it was unnecessarily self-indulgent and self-promoting.
I acknowledge that the author mentioned that this book was not a history book per se. She is correct. It is a combination of potted history and self-indulgence. I have seen her interviewed and she is indeed a powerful advocate for the Israeli cause. I would recommend she concentrate on that asset rather than her literary tendencies.
Then we have the style of writing. It borders on the conversational but certainly casual. Now, to some that may be appealing but this is not an off-the-cuff chat with a friend in a bar. This is hopefully planned and executed with forethought. So, the use of poor language choices is deliberate and, for me, unacceptable. I am not seeking a conversation with the author but rather a concise history of Israel. That is my mistake as I accepted the reviews as being a book of authority. Others will see this style and friendly, inclusive, hip and slick but smooth. Once again, impression. Mine was superficial, shallow in research, at times off task and occasionally unnecessary.
I wish the author success with the book but I will donate my copy to someone who wants to witness more indulgence than serious history.
6 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
Paul Dow
5.0 out of 5 stars Short history of Israel
Reviewed in Australia on 1 July 2022
Verified Purchase
An excellent overview of the history and regional current affairs that influence Israel today. Tied in with Noa’s story it’s an interesting and entertaining read
7 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
Show 10 more reviews
==
From Australia
Roger Mendelson
5.0 out of 5 stars An essential read for anyone interested in world peace
Reviewed in Australia on 16 June 2024
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Noa writes in a personal and passionate way and interweaves her personal story into the book.
However, don’t be fooled. This is a serious book, incorporating 3,000 years of history and is as well documented as most serious academic works.
Her style is casual but she is a passionate advocate and relates to her audience, which is basically people who don’t read history.
I learnt a lot from this book and am grateful that Noa wrote it. It is a very readable but major work.
Roger Mendelson
3 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
BSG_Fan
5.0 out of 5 stars Kosher
Reviewed in Australia on 1 June 2024
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have always wondered why people dislike Israel and its people so much. This book gave me a a fascinating and interesting tour through the ages providing great context, in a balanced (in my view) way. The author is obviously a very intelligent person with great wit and a very dry and ironic sense of humour. I bought this book, and one about Hamas, so I could be better informed about what is happening in that space; now I feel I am. An excellent read ;-D
3 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
Punga
5.0 out of 5 stars Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth
Reviewed in Australia on 30 January 2026
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
This book is essential reading for anyone who 'believes' they already understand the historical time line for Israel, you will, by the end of the book understand your own level of misunderstanding.
Thank you so much Noa for having the conviction to write your hook, which should be read by every student in every school around the globe as part of the world history curriculum.
I was born in 1959, and to date have witnessed the scope of the hell that both Israel and 'the people's of The West Bank and Gaza have lived through, and can only hope and wish that the 2 state solution will be achieved in my lifetime.
Helpful
Report
Maria Reynolds
4.0 out of 5 stars A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on earth
Reviewed in Australia on 16 December 2023
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Great read. Thank you Noa Tishby for helping me understand why Israel is the Most Misunderstood Country on earth
.
4 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
Terry Newman
5.0 out of 5 stars Tjos book is even sadder since October 7
Reviewed in Australia on 6 October 2024
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Regrettably the glimmers of hope Noa raises in the book seem to have disappeared.
Nevertheless it is essential reading for someone to understand the issues and challe
nges for Israel. I w wish we could force the whole world to read it.
Especially all participants in UN organisations
3 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
Sharon Melamed
5.0 out of 5 stars Must read book for anyone interested in Middle East peace
Reviewed in Australia on 7 January 2024
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
This book is full of facts and figures about the history of Israel interwoven with moving and sometimes funny personal anecdotes. For anyone commenting on social media on the current war or seeking to arm themselves with indisputable facts, I highly recommend this book. It challenges many preconceptions about “the most misunderstood country in the world.”
5 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
Banjo
5.0 out of 5 stars We all need to read it
Reviewed in Australia on 25 March 2024
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I got sick of all the criticism being written daily in the papers & decided to learn for my self about the Jews. And what a remarkable race they are! I understand why people have a problem with them, they’re far too honest & decent for most people with a strong sense of right & family. I have huge admiration for this maligned people who too many are jealous of.
9 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
Rebecca C
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent, Excellent book
Reviewed in Australia on 27 February 2022
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
What a beautifully written book, taking on the immensely complex subject of Israel and breaking it down to such an understandable level. This book should be compulsory reading for anyone interested in Middle East events or History. Thanks Noa
12 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
JOHN MILLS
2.0 out of 5 stars Intention versus Impression
Reviewed in Australia on 16 October 2023
Verified Purchase
I have no doubt that the author’s intentions were honourable and wholesome. All authors want to be judged in that light. That goal is successful when the impression matches the intention. And here is the problem with the book.
I have been reading history for decades and have saved those books the intention of which have matched the impression they left with me. I was expecting a serious albeit succinct history of Israel. It wasn’t until page 22 that the history began. Up until then it was a history about the author and I could not resist the feeling (here read impression) that it was unnecessarily self-indulgent and self-promoting.
I acknowledge that the author mentioned that this book was not a history book per se. She is correct. It is a combination of potted history and self-indulgence. I have seen her interviewed and she is indeed a powerful advocate for the Israeli cause. I would recommend she concentrate on that asset rather than her literary tendencies.
Then we have the style of writing. It borders on the conversational but certainly casual. Now, to some that may be appealing but this is not an off-the-cuff chat with a friend in a bar. This is hopefully planned and executed with forethought. So, the use of poor language choices is deliberate and, for me, unacceptable. I am not seeking a conversation with the author but rather a concise history of Israel. That is my mistake as I accepted the reviews as being a book of authority. Others will see this style and friendly, inclusive, hip and slick but smooth. Once again, impression. Mine was superficial, shallow in research, at times off task and occasionally unnecessary.
I wish the author success with the book but I will donate my copy to someone who wants to witness more indulgence than serious history.
6 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
Paul Dow
5.0 out of 5 stars Short history of Israel
Reviewed in Australia on 1 July 2022
Verified Purchase
An excellent overview of the history and regional current affairs that influence Israel today. Tied in with Noa’s story it’s an interesting and entertaining read
7 people found this helpful
Helpful
Report
jonk
5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic. Cannot recommend it highly enough.
Reviewed in Australia on 14 October 2021
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I don’t read. But I read this in 4 days. Worth a read to understand all the issues. It should be compulsory reading by world leaders.
5 people found this helpful
Helpful
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Big D
5.0 out of 5 stars Informative Book
Reviewed in Australia on 5 June 2023
Verified Purchase
Well written and non-bias
5 people found this helpful
Helpful
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Richard Bloom
5.0 out of 5 stars A great summary
Reviewed in Australia on 21 July 2021
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
A must read for anyone with any interest in the middle east.
5 people found this helpful
Helpful
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Roman Golubev
4.0 out of 5 stars It's not your average book of history by a historian
Reviewed in Australia on 11 November 2023
Format: Paperback
If you are after a serious history book, pass this one by. If you are after a concise, passionate, insider storyteller's history of her country, this is a book for you. Apart from interesting family stories, it lists very important facts for your understanding of how the Israel it is (in 2022) came about. I greatly enjoyed it and used a lot of quotes of facts from it in my online conversations.
One person found this helpful
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WilloWill
4.0 out of 5 stars Interesting
Reviewed in Australia on 24 September 2024
Format: Audiobook
I bought the audio version read by the author. It is definitely a biased account but still interesting and entertaining.
Helpful
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Bec Bennett
1.0 out of 5 stars This book will make you laugh, cry and sometimes rage.
Reviewed in Australia on 5 May 2024
Format: Paperback
In a concise and confident manner the author illustrates a clear picture of what is in the hearts and minds of Israelis, and how they justify 75 years of oppression.
She cherry picks events to suit her own one-sided agenda, while simultaneously pitching her own life’s achievements. And the Hollywood elite name-dropping gets old very fast (eye roll).
This book is steeped in racism (referencing the Middle East as a “rough neighbourhood”), while trying to convince you it’s liberal. Icing over mud. With so many events and details being so factually incorrect, it’s definitely a laughable listen.
14 people found this helpful
Helpful
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Astute Reader
5.0 out of 5 stars A great summary
Reviewed in Australia on 8 September 2023
Format: Paperback
Excellent concise guide to what Israel is, it’s history and the challenges it has faced.
3 people found this helpful
Helpful
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Susan Dear
1.0 out of 5 stars Propaganda at best
Reviewed in Australia on 2 April 2023
Format: Kindle
The mental gymnastics to justify apartheid and ethnic cleansing is unbelievable.
19 people found this helpful
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Tami
1.0 out of 5 stars No
Reviewed in Australia on 25 May 2024
Format: Kindle
Bias book about israel
6 people found this helpful
Helpful
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==
M1
5.0 out of 5 stars Good and informative
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 February 2026
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Easy to read and very informative.
Report
Danielle B. Ptak
5.0 out of 5 stars Incrivel
Reviewed in Brazil on 13 October 2021
Format: HardcoverVerified Purchase
Valeu esperar, é best seller!!
Report
Translate review to English
Laura Rebecca Rau
5.0 out of 5 stars Informativ, unterhaltsam, bewegend
Reviewed in Germany on 9 January 2025
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Noa Tishby ist sowieso eine tolle Frau, Rednerin und Aktivistin für Israel und in diesem Buch bechreibt sie spannend, unterhaltsam und kompetent die komplexe und hochemotionale Geschichte dieses fantastischen Landes. Authentisch, erhellend und absolut grundlegendes Wissen, empfehlenswert!!!
Report
Translate review to English
Chey G
5.0 out of 5 stars Knowledgable and entertaining
Reviewed in India on 18 January 2026
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Excellent book. The author takes the reader through all the arguments placed against Israel and refutes it. This is the book to go to if you want to listen to Israel’s side of the arguments. However, this is written pre October 7 2023, therefore refer to Douglas Murray’s books for a more rounded experience.
Report
Hokkaido Vacation User
5.0 out of 5 stars She is fair, factual, balanced. Provides a lot of necessary information to understand
Reviewed in Japan on 26 December 2023
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Noa Tishby has done what so many people have not been able to do. To clearly, factually, and personally explain what Israel is. She does it be writing in a style that average Americans can understand easily. So it is not difficult reading. I encourage people to buy and read this book.
Report
Client d'Amazon
5.0 out of 5 stars Parfait
Reviewed in France on 4 January 2026
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Très bien
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Translate review to English
Manuela manu
5.0 out of 5 stars Verità
Reviewed in Italy on 28 August 2021
Verified Purchase
Finalmente una visione completa storicamente dettagliata e giusta di quello che davvero è lo stato di Israele e non tutte le frottole che sentiamo Grazie alla scrittrice ottimo
Lavoro .
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Translate review to English
E. Wagner
5.0 out of 5 stars Factual, Conversational, Informative
Reviewed in the United States on 30 December 2022
Format: HardcoverVerified Purchase
If you know nothing about Israel, but want to learn, you should read this book. If you feel you know the story of Israel’s founding, and the facts behind the Palestinian war against Israel, as I did, you still should read this book. I read it at the urging of a friend, and I’m glad I did. When you read Israel, you will feel as if Noa Tishby is sitting on the couch, talking to you. She writes in a very contemporary style, mixing humor with the facts, making this the best book to read about Israel, today. Because her family was involved in the founding of Israel, she offers details you might not read elsewhere. Tishby has written an important book that everyone, but especially high school and college students, should make time to read. It provides an interesting and informative factual balance to the relentless anti-Israel propaganda young people are being assaulted with, today. At the same time, Tishby writes with respect and concern regarding the mistreatment and exploitation of average Palestinians by their leaders.
Report
William
5.0 out of 5 stars Very interesting!
Reviewed in Mexico on 19 April 2023
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I bought this book because I will be going to Israel this year and I had only a “vague” idea about this nation... Well, after reading Noa, I realize that my idea of Israel, the Jews, Palestine and the region in general was very distant from reality.
This book has given me a lot of clarity about a region and a country that, at least in Mexico, is not talked about much.
Incredible all the history, characters, wars and tribulations that this nation has been through. I am very excited to visit it even though I know that they are currently going through an internal and external crisis.
I hope this nation can live in peace among its neighbors and I hope this book will help many people to understand this country and its people.
Report
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars fabulous, insightful easy to understand read!
Reviewed in Canada on 7 April 2022
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
For those who might not know the history of the Middle East, this book gives a great overview and context to what has been happening for years in Israel and the surrounding area. It serves to educate rather than preach, and includes a great comedic tone that helps make this book a terrific easy read. Most people simply argue and take sides without a clear understanding of the conflicts in the Middle East, after reading this book, you will be armed with many insightful comments, arguments and historical facts that will help truly understand the country.
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fontanasteve
5.0 out of 5 stars Concise, illuminating, and thought-provoking.
Reviewed in Spain on 30 November 2023
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I knew a lot already, but Noa's book has added much to my knowledge. Thank you, Noa, for your candour and easily understood writing style.
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YT
5.0 out of 5 stars A MUST READ - An excellent overview and summary of facts
Reviewed in Singapore on 26 June 2021
Verified Purchase
A well written factual description of Israel, its history and the main challenges the country faces in the region and globally. Noa Tishby conducted a comprehensive research and provides clarity on many misunderstood topics.
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Ross
5.0 out of 5 stars Great informative book
Reviewed in Germany on 29 December 2021
Verified Purchase
Normally I'm not reading books at all but I've ordered that book cause this topic is interesting me, English is not my mother language although I could understand the book very well and the book is very catching you and you just can't stop reading. The information is very interesting and I've learned definitely much from that book ! I can only recommend it for each person that wanna know the truth about the State of Israel.
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KAUSHIK BHAKTA
5.0 out of 5 stars I love this book
Reviewed in India on 8 March 2025
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
A must readable book if you really want to know Israel and Palestine conflict.
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Teddy L.
5.0 out of 5 stars Historically accurate, a must read!
Reviewed in France on 31 January 2024
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
I have always been interested in and have researched the history of Israel from ancient times on. This book, though it does not go all the way back in history, is a go-to for information that is accurate on the situation in the Middle East.
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Jim B.
5.0 out of 5 stars what you left out
Reviewed in the United States on 2 December 2025
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
I loved your incredible research and facts about Israel!! You are right on and I pray this book gets to the people who need to read it
My criticism is you have not included the history of the Jews from the Bible. Jews are Gods chosen people and He will always protect them. This is why they are so resilient!! Please get the Jewish history from the Bible!
Great book!
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Jround
5.0 out of 5 stars Clear and entertaining
Reviewed in Spain on 15 March 2026
Format: KindleVerified Purchase
Obviously biased to Israel, but everything is backed up by fact. Excellent overview for one side of the story.
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Vicky F.
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderfully written
Reviewed in Canada on 29 January 2024
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
This book is an easy read, combining the history of the land with the writer's personal history.
Informative, truthfull and enjoyable to read. Highly recommended for all ages,
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LoopyLoo
5.0 out of 5 stars Interested? You NEED to read this brilliant book!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 September 2025
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
Excellent book, excellently written about an excellent country. Filled gaps in my knowledge and was a pleasure to read. Am Yisrael Chai!
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UK review
5.0 out of 5 stars Well written.
Reviewed in the United States on 7 January 2026
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
A must read. Very well written. Especially considering Noa is a self proclaimed lefty. All lefty's should read this.
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Karen K.
5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastically written - must read for all!!
Reviewed in Canada on 24 June 2023
Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
A must read for anyone who wants to learn about Israel and its history. It’s an easy read, with historical explanations, anecdotes and humor. Eye opening and much needed account of this tiny gem in the Middle East.
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세진님, 요청하신 노아 티쉬비의 <이스라엘: 지구상에서 가장 오해받는 나라에 대한 간결한 안내서>에 대한 요약과 평론입니다. 나를 향하지 않은 글이므로 요청하신 대로 <해라> 체를 사용하여 작성했습니다.
<이스라엘: 지구상에서 가장 오해받는 나라에 대한 간결한 안내서> 요약 및 평론
1. 요약: 복잡한 역사를 관통하는 이스라엘의 정체성
노아 티쉬비의 이 책은 이스라엘이라는 국가를 둘러싼 방대한 역사적 맥락과 현대의 갈등을 대중적인 시각에서 풀어낸 입문서이다. 저자는 이스라엘을 단순한 분쟁 지역이 아닌, 고대 유대 문명과 현대 민주주의가 결합된 독특한 실체로 정의하며 이야기를 시작한다.
고대 문명과 시오니즘의 발흥 책은 유대인이 이 땅에서 추방당한 고대 역사부터 19세기 유럽에서 발흥한 현대 시오니즘까지의 과정을 추적한다. 티쉬비는 시오니즘을 <유대인의 자결권 회복 운동>으로 규정하며, 이것이 식민주의가 아닌 원주민의 귀환이라는 논리를 펼친다. 홀로코스트라는 비극이 국가 건설의 유일한 이유는 아니지만, 이스라엘 국가 건설의 정당성을 뒷받침하는 결정적 계기가 되었음을 서술한다.
국가 건설과 끝없는 전쟁 1948년 건국 선포 이후 주변 아랍국들과 치른 여러 차례의 전쟁(독립 전쟁, 6일 전쟁 등)을 다룬다. 저자는 이스라엘이 생존을 위해 싸워온 과정을 묘사하며, 특히 1967년 6일 전쟁 이후 점령지로 분류된 지역들에 얽힌 복잡한 법적, 역사적 쟁점들을 설명한다. 이 과정에서 이스라엘이 평화를 위해 영토를 양보하려 했던 시도들과 그에 따른 실패의 역사(오슬로 협정 등)를 기록한다.
현대 이스라엘과 오해의 해소 저자는 이스라엘을 <아파르트헤이트 국가>라고 비판하는 세력에 맞서, 이스라엘 내부에 존재하는 아랍계 시민들의 권리와 민주적 가치를 강조한다. 또한, 소셜 미디어와 현대 정치 담론에서 이스라엘이 겪는 <부당한 악마화>를 비판하며, 이스라엘의 복잡성을 이해하기 위해서는 일방적인 프로파간다에서 벗어나야 한다고 주장한다.
2. 평론: 열정적인 변론과 가려진 그늘 사이의 줄타기
노아 티쉬비의 저술은 이스라엘에 대한 무지나 편견을 깨뜨리는 데 탁월한 효용성을 지닌다. 그러나 동시에 이 책은 객관적인 역사서라기보다는 고국을 향한 강력한 변론서에 가깝다는 특징을 보인다.
탁월한 소통 전략과 접근성 이 책의 최대 장점은 <가독성>이다. 딱딱한 학술적 문체 대신 재치 있고 구어적인 표현을 사용하여 독자들이 복잡한 중동 정세를 쉽게 이해하게 만든다. 특히 서구 젊은 층이 이스라엘을 바라보는 방식에 대해 직접적으로 질문을 던지며, 이스라엘이 현대 자유주의 가치(성소수자 인권, 여성 인권 등)를 중동에서 유일하게 수호하고 있다는 점을 부각하는 전략은 매우 영리하다.
정체성과 역사적 서사의 재구성 티쉬비는 이스라엘을 <원주민의 귀환>이라는 프레임으로 재해석한다. 이는 이스라엘을 유럽 제국주의의 산물로 보는 시각에 대한 강력한 반격이다. 유대인이 수천 년간 유지해온 땅과의 유대감을 강조함으로써, 이스라엘의 존재 자체가 국제법적, 역사적 정당성을 가짐을 설득력 있게 전달한다.
균형의 문제: 일방향적 서사의 한계 평론적 관점에서 볼 때, 이 책은 이스라엘의 입장을 방어하는 데 집중한 나머지 팔레스타인 측의 고통과 서사를 다소 평면적으로 처리하는 경향이 있다. 1948년의 나크바(대재앙)나 점령지 내 정착촌 확대 문제에 대해서는 이스라엘의 안보 논리를 우선시하며, 팔레스타인 민중이 겪는 일상의 구조적 폭력에 대해서는 충분한 공간을 할애하지 않는다.
결론: 대화를 위한 불완전하지만 필요한 시작점 결국 이 책은 이스라엘에 대해 극단적인 비난을 쏟아내는 이들에게 <다른 관점도 존재한다>는 사실을 일깨워주는 유용한 도구이다. 비록 저자의 시각이 이스라엘 국가 중심적이라는 한계는 명확하지만, 복잡한 중동 문제를 이해하기 위해 반드시 거쳐야 할 한쪽의 논리를 가장 명쾌하게 정리한 책이라 평가할 수 있다. 이 책을 읽는 독자는 저자의 열정적인 변론을 수용하되, 그 이면에 생략된 타자의 목소리까지 찾아보려는 비판적 태도를 견지해야 할 것이다.
세진님, 노아 티쉬비의 이 책은 이스라엘의 입장을 가장 현대적이고 세련되게 대변하는 도서 중 하나입니다. 이 요약과 평론이 세진님의 지적 탐구에 도움이 되었기를 바랍니다.
혹시 이 책에서 다루는 특정 사건(예: 6일 전쟁이나 오슬로 협정)에 대해 더 자세한 분석을 원하시나요? 혹은 다른 관점의 도서 추천이 필요하신가요?
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