In the spirit of classic love stories, many are tempered by the harsh realities of tragedy.

For the novice to this part of the world, these 25 stories showcase a wonderful introduction to the complexity of the interpersonal dynamics of relationships set amidst the backdrop of political intrigue, geography and archaeology, from ancient settlements to modern Iraq. To the western reader, Ali’s sudden sharp turns to tragedy can come as a shock, almost an abruptness. But that is how life is, and has been through the ages in the region. In this way, it provides a psychological entree to the Mesopotamian way of coping with, and explaining, the harsh realities of love and life.

Dr. Ali Zaak was born and educated in Baghdad then earned a doctorate degree from Australia. Additional to his many scientific publications, he writes poetry and stories that combine particulars, history and mythology. He is the author of two other books: “Are you brown name in a black list?” and “Cucaracha”. (www.linkedin.com/in/ali-al-zaak-)