Book Review: ‘The Druze of Belgrade’ by Rabee Jaber

Book Review: ‘The Druze of Belgrade’ by Rabee Jaber
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Updated 22 August 2024
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Book Review: ‘The Druze of Belgrade’ by Rabee Jaber

Book Review: ‘The Druze of Belgrade’ by Rabee Jaber

“The Druze of Belgrade” by Lebanese author Rabee Jaber is a sweeping historical novel that explores the complex and often misunderstood Druze community through the lens of one family’s saga. Set primarily in early 20th century Belgrade, the story follows the Durani clan as they navigate the political and social upheaval of the region, weaving together themes of identity, displacement, and the enduring bonds of family.

At the heart of the novel is Adham Durani, the patriarch, whose life is shaped by the tumultuous events of his time. As a young man, Adham flees his native Mount Lebanon and settles in Belgrade, where he establishes a successful trading business and starts a family. However, his hard-won stability is threatened by the outbreak of the   First World War and the subsequent collapse of the Ottoman Empire, forcing the Durani clan to confront their precarious position as outsiders in a changing world. 

The Druze are a religious minority with roots in the Middle East, and Jaber presents them deftly as they struggle with issues of tradition, allegiance, and assimilation. The Druze people find themselves caught between preserving their distinct cultural identity and assimilating into Serbian society as a whole. The political intrigue of the era, which puts the family in the crosshairs of nationalist movements and the shifting power dynamics in the Balkans, exacerbates this internal strife even more. 

One of the novel’s strengths is its rich, multi-layered characterization. Adham is a complex, flawed protagonist who must confront his own demons and the consequences of his choices. His wife, Fatima, is a strong-willed woman who fiercely protects her family, even as she struggles with the weight of her own secrets. The younger generation of Durani including Adham’s children and grandchildren, are indelibly shaped by the turmoil of their era, leading to poignant and sometimes heartbreaking moments of generational conflict. 

Jaber’s lyrical prose and attention to historical detail immerse the reader in the sights, sounds, and textures of early 20th century Belgrade. The novel’s sweeping scope, spanning decades and continents, is balanced by its intimate portrayal of the Durani family, whose triumphs and tragedies are inextricably tied to the larger forces of history. 

“The Druze of Belgrade” is a rich and compelling exploration of identity, displacement, and the resilience of the human spirit. Jaber’s masterful storytelling and deep empathy for his characters make this novel a must-read for fans of literary fiction and historical epics alike. 


What We Are Reading Today: ‘Magnetic Reconnection’

What We Are Reading Today: ‘Magnetic Reconnection’
Updated 05 December 2024
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What We Are Reading Today: ‘Magnetic Reconnection’

What We Are Reading Today: ‘Magnetic Reconnection’

Author: Masaaki Yamada

Plasmas comprise more than 99 percent of the visible universe; and, wherever plasmas are, magnetic reconnection occurs.

In this common yet incompletely understood physical process, oppositely directed magnetic fields in a plasma meet, break, and then reconnect, converting the huge amounts of energy stored in magnetic fields into kinetic and thermal energy.

In “Magnetic Reconnection,” Masaaki Yamada offers an illuminating synthesis of modern research and advances on this important topic. Magnetic reconnection produces such phenomena as solar flares and the northern lights, and occurs in nuclear fusion devices.


Book Review: ‘The Birds of Saudi Arabia’ by Abdullah Alsuhaibany

Book Review: ‘The Birds of Saudi Arabia’ by Abdullah Alsuhaibany
Updated 05 December 2024
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Book Review: ‘The Birds of Saudi Arabia’ by Abdullah Alsuhaibany

Book Review: ‘The Birds of Saudi Arabia’ by Abdullah Alsuhaibany

“The Birds of Saudi Arabia” offers a comprehensive exploration of the diverse avian species in the Kingdom, showcasing the expertise of its authors.

For bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and researchers, the two-volume set is an exciting compendium that explores the diverse bird life found in the Kingdom, written by Abdullah Alsuhaibany, secretary-general of the Saudi Environmental Security Coordinating Council, and Chris Boland, director of Arabian Biodiversity Consultancy. 

The collection is published by Aramco, showcasing their dedication to advancing knowledge in environmental research and conservation.

The books are available in Arabic and English, titled “The Lives of Birds” and “Species Accounts.”

Together, these volumes provide valuable information about the various bird species that inhabit Saudi Arabia.

The first book provides a broad overview of different bird families in Saudi Arabia. 

It introduces readers to groups of birds, such as colorful passerines, or songbirds, like warblers and sparrows and impressive raptors like eagles and hawks. 

Each chapter is written in a way that is easy to understand and interesting for both beginners and experienced birdwatchers. 

The book describes essential topics such as mating rituals, feeding habits, and migration. 

For example, it highlights how some birds use Saudi Arabia as a vital stop during their long journeys each year, shedding light on the country’s significance for global bird migration.

The conservation status of birds is also a key focus in this volume. The book discusses different challenges, such as habitat loss and climate change, that threaten bird populations and encourages readers to take action to protect these species. 

Additionally, the volume offers practical birdwatching tips, such as the best places and times to observe different species and what gear to bring along.

The second book focuses on specific bird species. This volume is perfect for serious birdwatchers and students of avian sciences, featuring detailed descriptions of each bird. 

Each entry includes information about the bird’s appearance, sounds, and where it can be found.

For instance, the section on the Common Redstart (Phoenicurus phoenicurus) discusses its colors and seasonal behaviors. 

The book also covers the Sooty Gull (Larus hemprichii), explaining its coastal habitats and feeding habits. 

The entry on the Arabian Partridge (Alectoris melanocephala) provides insights into how this bird interacts with others and its unique calls.

This volume also includes maps and descriptions that help readers visualize where different birds live in Saudi Arabia. 

The conservation information included for each species highlights the need to protect these birds and their habitats.

“The Birds of Saudi Arabia” is more than just a reference book; it celebrates the Kingdom’s amazing bird life and encourages conservation efforts. 

With both volumes, readers can learn about birds in a clear and engaging way, making it suitable for casual birdwatchers, seasoned ornithologists, and anyone interested in nature.

By facilitating access to this vital resource, Aramco not only helps to highlight the ecological wealth of Saudi Arabia but also engages a wider audience in the discussion of biodiversity and the importance of protecting fragile ecosystems.

This initiative underscores the vital connection between corporate responsibility and the preservation of our ecosystem. 


What We Are Reading Today: ‘The Artist’s Palette’ by Alexandra Loske

What We Are Reading Today: ‘The Artist’s Palette’ by Alexandra Loske
Updated 04 December 2024
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What We Are Reading Today: ‘The Artist’s Palette’ by Alexandra Loske

What We Are Reading Today: ‘The Artist’s Palette’ by Alexandra Loske

What can the palette an artist used or depicted tell us about their artistic process, preferences, and finished works? From traditional wooden boards to paint pots, ceramic plates, and studio walls, these deceptively simple yet potent tools provide vital evidence. 

“The Artist’s Palette” presents 50 unique palettes alongside paintings by the celebrated artists who used them, gathering expert analysis of color, brushstroke, and technique to offer new histories of these artists and their work.


What We Are Reading Today: ‘The Little Book of Weather’

What We Are Reading Today: ‘The Little Book of Weather’
Updated 03 December 2024
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What We Are Reading Today: ‘The Little Book of Weather’

What We Are Reading Today: ‘The Little Book of Weather’

Author: Adam Scaife

Packed with surprising facts, this delightful and gorgeously designed book will beguile anyone who is curious about weather.

Expertly written and beautifully illustrated throughout with color photographs and original color artwork, “The Little Book of Weather” is an accessible and enjoyable mini-reference about the world’s weather, with examples drawn from across the globe.

It fits an astonishing amount of information in a small package, covering a wide range of topics—from weather forecasting and extreme events such as hurricanes and typhoons to the future of weather with climate change.


What We Are Reading Today: ‘Introduction to Nonlinear Control’

What We Are Reading Today: ‘Introduction to Nonlinear Control’
Updated 02 December 2024
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What We Are Reading Today: ‘Introduction to Nonlinear Control’

What We Are Reading Today: ‘Introduction to Nonlinear Control’

Authors: Christopher M. Kellet & Philipp Braun

This self-contained and accessible introduction to the concepts and techniques used for nonlinear feedback systems offers a holistic treatment suitable for use in both advanced undergraduate and graduate courses; students need only some familiarity with differential equations and linear algebra to understand the material presented. 

The text begins with an overview of stability and Lyapunov methods for nonlinear systems, with Lyapunov’s second method revisited throughout the book as a connective thread.