The Taliban: Ascent to Power

Gohari, M.J., The Taliban Ascent to Power, (New York: Oxford University Press, 1999 & 2000). Pp. viii+149. 1 photograph. Further reading. Index. ISBN: 0-19-579560-1. This work can be considered more of an encyclopedia, with detailed definitions of various issues related to the Taliban, intertwined with numerous excerpts illustrating Gohari's stance on those issues. It explores the Taliban from many angles, including the historical, political, and social perspectives. Moreover, it delves into an often-overlooked topic, outlining the battle between the Mujahideen and the Taliban. Gohari also touches upon the role of the UN in Afghani politics, and Islamic fundamentalism globally. From the plague of imperialism upon the country to the birth of the Taliban in Pakistan to international players, Gohari gives a comprehensive look into the many, many facets of the Taliban's existence in the contemporary era. Remarkably, Gohari succeeds in maintaining a neutral stance regarding the Taliban, something extremely difficult in the post-9/11 era, when hostility and negative accounts of the Taliban are in abundance. Sometimes, this neutrality may be perceived as favor towards the Taliban on Gohari's side, but for the most part the book is free of bias. And, the structure of the book gives the reader a clear distinction between the author's opinions and the factual elements of the chronicle of the Taliban movement. I would not strongly recommend this book to the average reader. While it is an easy read, the encyclopedia-style narrative does require some diligence on the part of the reader. The book is more suited to those looking for an abundance of information, regarding all aspects of the Taliban, in one place. It seems more of a piece that would serve a student in need of a glance into the Taliban as a starting point for further research. Gohari also provides those interested in the Taliban with an outlet to find more specific areas of interest, in essence giving foundation from which to further explore the Taliban to one that has no previous background in the subject (aside from the attacks of 9/11, of course).