From Library Journal
The "bestiality" of what Glenny calls the Third Balkan War "springs the boundaries of moral comprehension," but our understanding of the Yugoslav civil war is aided by these two excellent works of reportage. They convey sensitively, vividly, and fairly completely the roots of this savage conflict. And both books do well what good journalism on the subject should do best: depict the human texture and political insides of Yugoslavia's "terminal crisis." Glenny, a well-known European journalist, presents a rich picture of "the rotten ship of Yugoslavia," tracing the conflict from 1990 to mid-1992. He conveys well aspects of the conflict we hear little of and warns of problems yet to be faced: Kosovo, Macedonia, and Turkish ambitions. British journalist Thompson presents an insightful report, reflecting his travels through Yugoslavia's republics and providing a nuanced exploration of the country's collapse. Unfortunately, his discussion of Macedonia reads as an afterthought, too little for an area that could well set another fire ablaze. Both books are recommended for academic and larger public libraries. See also Branka Magas's The Destruction of Yugoslavia , reviewed below.--Ed.- Henry Steck, SUNY Coll. at CortlandCopyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.