Genghis: Birth of an Empire
Author: Conn Iggulden
Amazon info
Conn Iggulden is probably better known for his apparently controversial "The Dangerous Book for Boys", but he has written a series of fictionalized historical accounts of famous leaders. Birth of an Empire tells the story of Genghis Khan (born Temujin). Interesting side note, the Mongol language doesn't have the sound K, so "Khan" is actually pronounced "Haan" - who knew?
The book reads well and Iggulden handles his battle scenes with particular skill, never an easy task. Birth of an Empire is informative and even insightful as he outlines the essence of how Genghis was able to unite (rather than conquer) tribes that had been warring for centuries (perhaps due to Chinese meddling). Iggulden is an excellent story teller, at least in this milieu. But what is most interesting and unusual about this book is that it really doesn't tell the story of "Genghis Khan" - rather it tells the story of "Temujin Khan" who has, shall we say, a tough childhood. In fact, the book ends just as "Genghis" begins. Temujin has just united 3 tribes, and is perhaps 20 years old, when he outlines his vision of being the "khan of all those who live in the grasslands" and therefore takes the name Genghis Khan. The entire story of the growth of the Mongol Empire is not covered, but it is easily imagined based on what we have already seen. An interesting decision by the writer and it worked for me. I also enjoyed the epilogue where he details his fictionalizations and some of the reasons (all were good choices in my mind). I look forward to reading more of his historical fiction and will probably read "The Dangerous Book for Boys" to Matthew.
Recommended: To all, especially those with an interest in history or players of the game Civilization.