Doctors for the Kingdom: The Work of the American Mission Hospitals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Historical Series of the Reformed Church in America)

Rating:
Summary: Healing hands for the Middle East
Review: At a time when the Western world and the Middle East desperately need something to remind them that they can work and live together in harmony, along comes this inspiring and true account to warm your heart.
The book covers the story of missionary doctors from America who used their 'healing hands' to venture from their base in Bahrain into Saudi Arabia from 1913-1955. On first sight, therefore, you might think that this book is too specific to be enjoyed by anyone who isn't a missionary or a doctor in the Middle East. Not so fast!
What is endearing is that the book is written in such a way that, in my opinion, it appeals to a wider audience - those interested in Christian-Muslim relations, those with an understanding of the importance of the Middle East in today's world, and those who just want to enjoy good old unadultered history including academia.
What makes the book so much more enjoyable is that the author (himself a doctor) has directly quoted from many of the doctors' private diaries and memoirs, recounting such tales as when they had the privilege to treat the King of Saudi Arabia himself - and his family!
What often puts me off such books is their presentation (usually far too much text and nothing visual). The good news here is that there's a broad range of photos to bring alive the story even more.
All in all, it's a very pleasant and inspiring read - and I am sure that those who choose to buy this book will find themselves recounting some of its amazing stories...as indeed I am.