The Buried

by Peter Hessler
The Buried cover
Good Books rating 4.17
History
Technical
  • ID: 3878
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-20
  • ISBN: 9781925774559
  • Publisher: Text Publishing
  • Published: 2019-05-21
  • Reviews: 4

The Buried offers a deeply personal and multifaceted look at Egypt's Arab Spring and its broader historical context. Through the eyes of a wide array of Egyptians—political operatives, archaeologists, garbage collectors, women, the queer community, and migrants—the book captures the essence of a nation in flux. It's a tapestry of stories that reveal the complexities and contradictions of modern Egypt, blending personal narratives with broader socio-political themes. This book is not just a historical account but a human one, highlighting the voices often overlooked in mainstream narratives. It provides a nuanced understanding of Egypt's past and present, making it a compelling read for those interested in the intersection of history, culture, and personal experience.

Reviews
Barnaby Rogerson's Blog · 2024-12-14
brilliant 4.50

The book is praised as a masterpiece of contemporary travel writing, showcasing Hessler's deep observation and understanding of Egypt.

The reviewer hails The Buried as a masterpiece of contemporary travel writing, highlighting Hessler's ability to capture the essence of Egypt through years of intense observation. They admire the book's rich detail and the way it weaves together personal stories with broader historical and cultural contexts. The reviewer finds Hessler's insights both profound and enlightening, making the book a standout in the genre.

Quick quotes

    Peter Hessler's The Buried is, however, a masterpiece of contemporary travel writing: created from four years of intense observation of his surroundings.

    Hessler's writing is both evocative and informative, offering a deep dive into the complexities of Egyptian society.

    The book is a testament to Hessler's skill as a writer and his deep understanding of the people and places he describes.

The Guardian · 2019-12-18
thoughtful 4.00

The book is a slow burner that requires patience to appreciate its depth and the nuances of its characters. It offers a unique perspective on life and death in Egypt.

The reviewer notes that The Buried is not a quick read but rather a book that unfolds gradually, revealing its richness over time. They appreciate the way it delves into the complexities of Egyptian society, highlighting the intricacies of daily life and the profound impact of historical events. The reviewer finds the book's pacing and attention to detail to be its strongest assets, making it a compelling exploration of a country in transition.

Quick quotes

    The Buried is a slow burner: it takes time and patience to enter its world, fall in with its rhythms and to distinguish its cast of initially unremarkable characters.

    It is a book that rewards the reader's investment with a deep understanding of the human experience in Egypt.

    Hessler's writing is both intimate and expansive, capturing the essence of a nation grappling with its past and present.

The New York Times · 2019-06-26
captivating 4.20

Hessler's book weaves together stories from his time in Cairo, offering a unique perspective on post-revolution Egypt. The reviewer finds the book captivating and thought-provoking.

This review from The New York Times emphasizes the captivating nature of 'The Buried'. The reviewer appreciates how Hessler weaves together his personal experiences and observations from living in Cairo during a tumultuous period. The book is seen as a thoughtful exploration of post-revolution Egypt, with the reviewer highlighting its ability to capture the essence of political turmoil and historical context. The narrative is described as both engaging and insightful, offering a unique perspective on a complex society.

Quick quotes

    In 'The Buried' Peter Hessler, the New Yorker writer, weaves together stories from his experience of living in Cairo for the past five years.

    Dining with a friend one day, he told me to read Hessler's The Buried, calling it an excellent and thought-provoking read.

    Peter Hessler excavates political and cultural landscapes in Egypt in the mid- to waning days of the Arab spring, and he roots as deep as the pharaohs.

Goodreads · 2019-01-01
engaging 4.00

The book is enjoyed for its emphasis on the human element, providing a personal and engaging narrative of the Egyptian revolution.

The reviewer expresses a deep appreciation for The Buried, particularly for its focus on the human aspect of the Egyptian revolution. They find Hessler's storytelling compelling and the personal narratives he includes to be both moving and insightful. The reviewer believes the book offers a unique and valuable perspective on a significant historical event, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    Overall, I really enjoyed THE BURIED. Hessler's emphasis on the human element provided fantastic personality to the story of the revolution.

    The book is a powerful exploration of the personal stories that often get overshadowed by larger historical narratives.

    Hessler's writing is engaging and thought-provoking, making the book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the human side of the Egyptian revolution.

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