A Traveller's History Of Poland [Paperback]

The history of Poland is complex and convoluted...An amazing story shaped by those inside and outside of Poland -- and those with Poland's best and worst interests at heart. Western Europeans and North Americans have, for the most part, received a disorganized story shaped partially by the real events, but one also framed by various conquerors, suitors, allies, enemies, the well-intentioned, and the truly evil at heart...with a little myth and pure B.S. thrown in for good measure. Many readers, for example, will discover that the events in and about Poland leading up to and through WWII did not really come about as we were taught in school. Centuries ago Poland set out down a path of more representative forms of government -- another historical context we typically don't hear about.

There is no way that a book of barely 300 pages can deliver a comprehensive study of (in the words of historian Norman Davies) "God's Playground". But this volume does a good job of providing historical context for both visitors and the geographically/politically curious. Author Radzilowski may seem to run through the centuries at a fast clip -- and at first I was wondering if his bullet point facts would end up being just a part of some historical list. But as you read along you come to the understanding that he is plotting out a trend line for you to follow. Maybe you can remember all the Polish monarchs and their external allies and foes...I'm not that good at names, dates, and battles. But you should be pleased to come away with a better formed generalized understanding of the country and its people.

I have been extremely fortunate the past few years to have "acquired" some wonderful Polish friends and colleagues. This has fueled my curiosity about Poland, and lead to my first trip there last year. I'm planning a second trip soon, and this book, along with several books on more contemporary Polish history and events, has been a real asset.

I give the book five stars not because it is the best history of Poland, but because it accomplishes precisely what it sets out to do.

In the back of the book there is a nice historical chronology, a listing of Polish rulers, a list of English language sources for Polish history, and a historical gazetteer.

The book ends on this note: "The Polish people have taken everything fate has to throw at them, including the worst crimes of fascism and communism, and have not succumbed. Though its position in the world is not certain, Poland is no longer a plaything of the great powers. Poles earned the right to govern themselves and make their own mistakes and at last to write their own history."

Enjoy!

Written by Poland history and culture expert John Radzilowski, A Traveler's History of Poland is a primer of Polish history written for anyone looking to better experience and understand the nation's culture and legacy during their visit. From Poland's origins, to the end of the Commonwealth, war, occupation, and the Holocaust, the all too often violent rule of Communism, the ascent of Polish pope John Paul II and the dawn of modern Polish independence, A Traveler's History of Poland succinctly surveys history and does not whitewash the sufferings and atrocities that all the different ethnicities of people in Poland have endured across the decades. A highly readable, enlightening, even-handed and accessible account ideal for readers of all backgrounds.

I really like this book; it was well written, informative, and insightful, but feel compelled to make some comments. First of all, do not be misled by the title, which features the world "Traveler's." There is nothing in the book that will necessarily aid a traveler. If you are looking for a book that discusses the main sites of Poland, this is no it (by the by, I recommend the Eyewitness Guides). In fact, I feel this series of books was titled thus to only appeal to those who are looking for tour books. The main word to pay attention to is "History." This is, first and foremost, a history. While there are some cultural elements mentioned, they are done so only within the confines of a historical discussion.

I purchased this book to familiarize myself with Poland and its history prior to going there during the summer of 2010. If you are looking for a history of Poland and its people, I recommend this book very highly. If you are looking for something to aid you on your travels, I suggest you find another text.

As an aside, this book has the tightest binding of any paperback I've ever held. The same tight binding is on the Oxford book from the same series. Be prepared for a wrist workout.

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