National Geographic Atlas of the Middle East, Second Edition: An Essential Reference for a Better Understanding of the World's Most Complex Region

Part 1, started 16 September 2012,I found this an excellent companion to illustrate the ground covered by "A line in the sand", which I hope to review elsewhere.I'm particularly prompted to write this review having read a review on the Amazon website for another country that read: QUOTE I was disappointed to see that this atlas draws international boundaries in highly questionable places on some of its maps. I'm used to seeing boundaries in dispute highlighted by broken lines with explanations to the reader identifying which country claims which boundary; thereby indicating that this is an area to learn more about and possibly avoid if you are traveling. Not so this atlas, which has in some cases taken a political stance that conflicts with the international community and illustrates a highly-contested area as a solid line with no indication that the border is in dispute. This is irresponsible and I would never use this atlas to plan a trip ENDQUOTE which IMHO misses the point of an Atlas for the Middle East - i.e. it's an area of shifting sands that has been inhabited by nomads in the main, with the inevitable consequences.I was working in the State of Qatar and bought the first edition (published in 2003) locally in 2007, in order to be able to look at surrounding countries from a Qatari perspective. When I compared my SECOND edition (published in 2008 and purchased by me through Amazon.co.uk) with my 1st, I noticed that some countries had grown, including: Bahrain, Qatar and UAE. Can you guess how?My personal approach when travelling in such areas is to try to have as detailed, and as accurate and up-to-date maps as possible, and to consider to carry a satellite phone if your budget allows.I'm delighted hat the 2nd edition adds individual coverage of Sudan, Afghanistan and Pakistan, to the "traditional Middle East" countries covered by the 1st!I hope the 3rd edition - which may be due for publication in 2013 - adds coverage for Tunisia, Libya, and Tajikistan. These counties already fit on the "Regional Satellite/Physical/Political Maps" near the start of the Atlas. Including the latter country of Tajikistan (perhaps "a far away country of which we know little") may surprise some readers, but to me it's placed between Afghanistan and China, and may "become interesting soon".SUM-UP: this 2nd edition is "Excellent, BUT looking to 3rd edition to include more countries!"

The information itself is a little basic - but would be good for a beginner. Good visual representations, full of pictures.

This is beautiful. Should have gotten it long ago. Love it. Full of details. Good quality paper. Filled with images and info. Love it. Best buy ever

Much more than a map as it covers political stability and a host of information on each country ideal if you are thinking of doing an over land trip. Should help in building your trip data also make sure you get the latest as it changes with the move of borders and political stability.

Very good publication at the price - very handy for quick reference. Would recommend it for anyone planning travel in the region or just for interest>

Excellent much more information than expected

Excellent

Very informertive