Wounded Tigris: A River Journey through the Cradle of Civilisation

Leon McCarron's "Wounded Tigris" is a journey along the Tigris River, highlighting the dangers it faces due to geopolitics and climate change. He traveled by boat, passing through Turkey, Syria, and Iraq, encountering fishermen, farmers, artists, activists, and archaeologists. The book is a call to action to save the river.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2024
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

SHORTLISTED FOR THE EDWARD STANFORD TRAVEL WRITING AWARDS 2024 As epic as it is engaging, Tom Holland's "Wounded Tigris" is a captivating journey through the ancient lands of Mesopotamia and modern Iraq. With its engaging narrative and informative insights, the book has received praise from esteemed publications such as the New York Review of Books and Sir Michael Palin. Leon McCarron's arduous expedition along the Tigris River in 2021 is the focus of the book. Starting from the source, where Assyrian kings carved their images into stone, McCarron and his small team navigated through the Turkish mountains, traversed north-east Syria, and ventured deep into Iraq. Along the way, they encountered historic cities like Diyarbakir, Mosul, and Baghdad, as well as fishermen, farmers, artists, activists, and archaeologists who depend on the river's flow. Despite facing occasional harassment from militias and relying on the kindness of strangers, McCarron's journey was a testament to the resilience of humanity in the face of adversity. The book's title, "Wounded Tigris," aptly captures the plight of the river, which is in danger due to geopolitics and climate change. The Tigris has been the lifeblood of ancient Mesopotamia and modern Iraq, but its future is now uncertain. McCarron's journey highlights the urgent need to take action to protect this vital waterway and the civilizations that depend on it. Through his journey, McCarron explores the historical, cultural, and environmental significance of the Tigris River. He delves into the ancient civilizations that flourished along its banks, the impact of modern development on the river's ecosystem, and the challenges faced by the people who live in its vicinity. McCarron's writing is both informative and engaging, making the book accessible to a wide audience. Overall, "Wounded Tigris" is a must-read for anyone interested in history, geography, and the environment. It offers a unique perspective on the Tigris River and its importance to the world, and it inspires readers to take action to protect this vital resource.

Weight: 302g
Dimension: 126 x 198 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472156211