Lawrence of Arabia: The Authorized Biography of T.E. Lawrence

T. E. Lawrence's outstanding memoir "Seven Pillars Of Wisdom" is brilliantly accompanied with this masterful biography where he attains a three-dimensional construct. The author succinctly incorporates passages from Lawrence's correspondence, as well as, witness statements, which adeptly reveals glimpses of his mentality, character, psychology -- in short, his unique essence. Extensive in-depth research and eloquent prose accomplishes an entertaining enthralling experience. Fills in the gaps and questions raised from Lawrence's memoir, particularly, why he was in the Middle East, his ability to speak Arabic, his life before and after WWI. All of which highlights his distinctive commonsensical brilliance and unorthodox gestalt, which inspires one to, ultimately, be true to Self. Astoundingly, after the war, Lawrence worked directly for Colonel Secretary Winston Churchill as an Advisor on Arabian matters. He thereby achieved immense political influence to finally sculpt his viewpoint: "I [Lawrence] take most of the credit of Mr. Churchill's pacification of the Middle East upon myself. I had the knowledge and the plan. He had the imagination and the courage to adopt it and the knowledge of the political procedure to put it into operation. The settlement was the big achievement of my life: of which the war [WWI] was a preparation" (p. 651). A discerning engaging narrative. Admirable, touching, inspirational. Highly recommend.

This is an exhaustive, not exhausting, biography written in a distinctly academic manner which should satisfy those who wish to experience the world of T E Lawrence. I say the world because this account gives an extensive account of the world, historical, and cultural events which shaped the life and actions of Lawrence. You will probably get a better idea of the political machinations affecting the middle east and the post WW 1 era and the dying British empire in a few chapters than anywhere else. What the book does best is to refute the many myths, legends, calumnies and misconceptions about Lawrence without resorting to the lurid, baited breath tell-all style that plagues so many of his biographies. On the other side is the problem of knowing and understanding Lawrence. This book does about as much as can be done and it does it well. However Lawrence is so complex and secretive a character that the reader can never say that he feels he knows him. Unless new primary source information becomes available there is little more than can be said as he stands in clouds of fact and myth. The book is as fascinating as the man, tortured psyche, soul and all.

It is pretty heavy reading, but if you are fascinated by the man- then get the book and enjoy. From the looks of the book ratings, Michael Korda's book is also a consideration. I have not read that yet. This book proved to be very intriguing as far as the man and the times he lived in. If you have the patience to move through a large book because the subject matter interests you -this is the book to get on this legendary man. It is a bio- but it is also a lot of history as well.

I received this book earlier than promised and was so engrossed with the life of Lawrence, I read the book within Two weeks. The Wonderful biography that tells the real story of "Lawrence of Arabia". Great work done by Jeremy Wilson that does justice to the exploits of Thomas E. Lawrence. I am fortunate to have viewed the movie and now read the book about this great man in history. Bravo! This book should be added to the personal library of all who reads true adventures of great persons of the past.

Good book and a well researched text. The price was not to be believed and if you are interested in the War in the East and TE Lawrence - this is a must have

Great detailed volume that features so much info. on TE Lawrence’s entire life -esp younger years & family

This is just an excellent and well written biography. It's meticulously researched and annotated. I've read all the old and new biographies and I think this is the best.

Delivered promptly and a great read.

The story of a truly amazing man the like of who you don't see these days! The service was brilliant with the book arriving on time and at a price that was tremendous value. Delighted all round

I hadn't expected the volume to be this massive (in the physical, weighty sense); it's definitely not purse-material to take on the tram to work. In fact, it's massive enough that if I dropped it out the window, it would have the same effect as a piano. But jokes aside: as a T.E.L. enthusiast and hobby-researcher since age 16, this is a wonderful addition to my library. It does complete justice to one of the most complex and misunderstood men of the 20th century. I shall enjoy every line and page.

book looks fine, as advertised.

Its a book reading!

Condition of book was exactly how described. Great value and speedy delivery. Thank you.