"Republic of Dreams" is a powerful and moving account of the Kurdish people's struggle for self-determination in Iraq. Through the eyes of Peshawa, a young Kurdish refugee, author Nicole F. Watts paints a vivid and heartbreaking picture of Iraqi Kurdistan's tumultuous history, from the devastating impact of Saddam Hussein's genocidal campaign to the more recent challenges of civil war, the US invasion, and the Arab Spring.

Drawing on extensive interviews with activists, journalists, and elected officials, Watts provides a nuanced and deeply human perspective on the Kurdish people's resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Her lyrical prose and keen insights into the complex political and social landscape of Iraqi Kurdistan make for a captivating and enlightening read.

"Republic of Dreams" is an essential work for anyone seeking to understand the Kurdish people's ongoing struggle for autonomy and recognition. Watts' compassionate storytelling and expert analysis offer a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and political turmoil, as well as the enduring spirit of a people fighting for their future.

Republic of Dreams quickly proved to be a fantastically informative read. It provided more context and information about Iraqi Kurdistan than…well, more than I ever would have imagined myself knowing, if I am being perfectly honest! And with Peshewa serving as the book’s focal point, much of that aforementioned knowledge was all imparted on a n intimate level that helped it sink in all the more effectively (for my own personal reading experience at least).

This is definitely a prime title that I would love to add to the Middle Eastern section of the academic library that I work at.

My thanks to NYU Press, Nicole F. Watts and Netgalley.
This book was one of my slow reads. For me, its a difficult subject matter.
I have read quite a bit about the Kurds and I've discovered that I have a very soft spot for them. I fucking despise the way they are treated. Most of all, I'm so very ashamed of the way my government treated them after the Iraq war.
Personally, I love reading about their lives and hardships. I wish my government had helped them more.
This book? I think Ms. Watts did justice to this small part of a bigger story.
My hope is that one day their will be a Kurdistan that is free from Iraq and Iran. Everyone deserves a place...a country of their own.

The Kurds in Iraq are a minority group who has been through so much. This was a fascinating look at their everyday lives. Their perserverence and commitment to their culture and way of life is remarkable considering all they have been through.

The Kurds have experienced a long history of persecution and living in a constant state of defense for their homeland. Nicole Watts has done a great job at painting the everyday lives of Kurds and how they have lived since the attack on Halabja in the 1990s. This is surely a fascinating look into a people whose only friends are the mountains.

Peshawa's story was enlightening. The Republic of Dreams allowed me to better understand a person of his background, culture, and perspectives as a Muslim Kurd from Iraq. It also allowed for a deeper understanding of Kurdistan, a region that does not get much attention from the average American or Westerner. In my opinion, it is beyond important to have knowledge of people who exist in all corners of the world, and this book allowed me to begin my study of Kurds. The title refers to the dream of an independent Kurdish state, but also Peshawa's commitment to his homeland and his dreams being actualized within it. These sentiments are woven together beautifully by the author throughout the book.

I very much enjoyed this read, it had a change in pacing as many events happened in rapid succession near the end, but in some ways, this life, and I cannot fault the author for the ways and speed events perhaps unfolded in Peshawa's life. I think that any lover of nonfiction and memoirs would find true value in this book, it teaches a lesson while simultaneously describing the ups and downs of a most interesting life.

Growing up in the 80s, I remember watching the news with my dad every morning. The Iran-Iraq war felt like it lasted forever. Peshawa’s story in Republic of Dreams reminded me of those times. This isn't just another dry recounting of a distant conflict. The book tells not just the big events but also the everyday lives of Kurdish people—a perspective often lost amidst the headlines.

Peshawa's life begins even before he is born, during the Halabja chemical attack that killed five thousand Kurds. His story shows how personal and community tragedies shape people's lives. Despite these painful beginnings, this book isn't just about the darkness. It's a testament to the enduring human spirit. Peshawa, despite the hardships, embodies the very things I find so inspiring: love, unwavering support, and a zest for life that's downright contagious.

The author blends Peshawa’s personal experiences with the broader Kurdish struggle. We see him struggle with learning English, we see him make new friends, search for a wife, fall in love, get married, and become a father. He tries different jobs and travels to other countries, showing his growth and determination.

Republic of Dreams is not just about Peshawa. It’s about the Kurdish people and their dreams for a better future. The book helps us understand their lives beyond what we see on the news.