Pakistan: A Personal History

It is hard to know where to begin in reviewing this book, it really does deliver so much. First and foremost, whilst engaged in sport, I have no connection or interest whatsoever, in cricket but I have to admit, I enjoyed the authors autobiographical content, this really does give a clear insight into his personality and how his talent has moved beyond the sporting arena with great success. Pakistan is a country I have very little knowledge of, despite my interest in the Partition of India, and the events surrounding this dreadful tale of history. This book certainly provided a solid overview of the issues that have restricted any progress for this young nation, despite so much promise and opportunity at its both in 1947. I so desperately hope for a better future for its people. Finally I am so inspired by the narration of Islam, it’s history and its underpinning philosophy in this book. The quotes and wisdom illustrated here from the Prophet (peace be upon him), are stunning to say the least. It is a book that challenges your thoughts, assumptions, your knowledge and understanding. This really highlights how powerful but yet skilfully, Khan writes. It is rare, one comes across a book that has the power to change so much in an individual, but this is certainly one. I particularly look for reading material that has an impact on me and moreover, one that gives you a sense of real enlightenment. This is certainly one of those examples. Along with other material referenced within this work, this book will remain prominent within my library and collection, which I know I will revisit. I would highly recommend this book to all modern history, political science international academics and course leaders, to include this text on your reading lists. Equally, if any students of these studies, who see this material again, I would urge you to read this work. Having read this book, Imran Khan is someone on my list, I would dearly love to meet, but I think this will never happen. No doubt he will probably not see this review, but I still want to say I feel indebted to you in so many ways for the understanding, clarity and personal enlightenment you have brought to me from this this work. Mark Bentley MSc BA (Hons) FCILT FCMI FRSA

This is a highly readable account of Pakistan's history by a formidable personality. Imran bares his soul whilst recounting the history of Pakistan in light of his own experience. Therefore it makes this book doubly interesting, and truly enlightening, preventing reader fatigue. Imran Khan is fearless in his condemnation of senior politicians and the corruption that has dogged Pakistan since its birth. Past Presidents and Prime Ministers of Pakistan are named and thoroughly shamed. Normally one would want to read what the others have to say, but Imran's assertions seem to be so from the heart that his words are believable. I do feel this is a must-read paperback for all types of Western audience, including those who are not particularly interested in Pakistan, as the book does open people to understand the problems that people in Muslim lands struggle with in their day to day lives. Then of course there is an insight in the book to Imran's early life, his cricketing career, his marriage and above all, his spiritual quest. Thankfully not just about politics and dates! The offering differs from heavy academic discourse that we have become so accustomed to, which plays with Islamism, 9/11 and so forth. This book, I feel, is a great reminder, as it furnishes the reader with reality: that colonial thinking is ever present in modern Muslim and third world societies, even today. Basically the story is simply told and while the writing style may at times seem repetitive, it all links together and the book works. One may philosophize a different solution to the problem of Pakistan (other than Imran's prescription), yet the book remains an outstanding contribution and should be read much more widely. A thoroughly useful piece of writing, well done Imran Khan.

This book cropped up as an amazon suggestion because i'd been reading biographies and autobiographies. instead of clicking the kindle sample as intended, i purchased the book accidentally. I'd no idea who this person is other than something to do with cricket. I know absolutely nothing about cricket, and Pakistan is so much in the news i wasn't keen to hear about it from a sportsman. Once I got into the book, however, tears kept pouring down my face. Here was a truthful and searching account of an idealist who tried against all odds to makes things better for everyone, who walked the walk and didn't just talk . His political analysis, the accounts of his achievements and setbacks were convincing but what most of the reviewers seem to have missed was that central to his story was the unfolding of a spiritual journey - a gradual discovery of the mystery of a hidden hand in mundane matters, how obstacles call forth hidden strength to become preparations for the next part of the journey. The author is scrupulously honest in recounting the constant reality checks, how life kept throwing up challenges so there is no place for fake humility ( which some of the other reviewers would have preferred) and it is a fine line between self regard and a refusal to allow self doubt to undermine what he'd set out to achieve. The story he told is an archetypal one, with as much relevance for those who seek changes in the Americas as it does for those in East Asia, Europe and Africa. We face unprecedented changes in the world and an urgent need for change. This book is a testimony to how dreams, right will and hard work are the seed for a better future, and the author by sharing his experience, isn't, I believe, just trying to win votes. His story reminds us as very few books do these days, the time honored and old fashioned truths about how we can go about making a difference and why in those efforts, we are never alone.

Imran Khan is a winner with a cricket career of David v Goliath successes so one shouldn’t expect modesty from such a pedigree and aspiring politician. This book is a great insight into the contemporary politics of one of the world’s real flashpoints, a beautiful country with an amazing history somehow brought to the verge of extinction. Khan’s anecdotes are valuable and often humorous with a fascinating East/West perspective. As much as anything this is a motivational book about drive, ambition and achievement with my only criticism being that Khan’s birth privalage perhaps does not fully recognise the extent of Pakistan’s non-meritocratic inequality.Personally I would like a bit more passion about this and gender rights but clearly the world needs this man to lead this troubled nascent state.The incident describing when this Oxbridge London socialite in his late 30's is introduced to an arranged partner to appease his traditional father perhaps best exemplifies the contemporary culture clash crossroads of Pakistan.

Great

I am a female British Pakistani, having spent most of my life in London. My father took me to Pakistan often when I was younger, but as it happens - that stopped and whatever anchor I had to Pakistan had slowly diminished over time. Lo and behold - years and years later I commenced training as a psychologist with an interest in Pakistani Muslims. I figured that merely going by my experiences in practise was not enough and I needed to know the history, the culture, the religion - from the perspective of a Pakistani in Pakistan. Most importantly, I had (and continue to have) a dire need to reconnect to my heritage and that of my parents'. I figured I'd start with this book and I can honestly say it was difficult to put down from the first page. It is written eloquently removed from any embellishment or sugarcoating and Imran Khan manages to provide a picture that is so holistic and varied - from religion to culture, to politics and geography. This review is mainly for British Pakistanis who wish to know and learn about the past, present and hopes for a Pakistan that can sometimes feel very alien and faraway. A lot of my assumptions have been challenged and enough food for thought that has enabled me to think about things from different perspectives. What makes it better is reading his words from the perspective of having hope for a new future Pakistan - which has now finally begun to manifest in winning the recent elections. His grit, determination and staunch faith in his people is remarkable. What began as research for my thesis has now instilled in me a desire to grow and cultivate my Pakistani identity, alongside that of my British identity, rather than the former not existing at all. If you read with an open mind, you wont be disappointed :)

I would recommend this book wholeheartedly and unreservedly. Imran Khan and Pakistan have lived the same journey over the last six decades. Imran's honest and vivid account of his life has it's roots and shoots interwoven in Pakistan's fabric. He takes us through the collective evolution of Pakistan. This country was dreamed up and founded as an islamic welfare state. Jinnah, the founding father of Pakistan, fought for its formulation and then laid the foundations for a country which thrived and progressed initially inspite of a plethora of internal and external problems. Imran takes us through these highs and the ensuing lows which were a result of deviating from the ideals of Iqbal and the example of Jinnah. Decades of corruption, continual installation of American puppets, power politics and finally the shameless compliance in the war of terror has plummeted Pakistan into the depths of despair. However, the overriding and pervading message here is hope. Pakistan, with its rich Islamic heritage and substantial youthful population can still overurn the status quo. This is where Imran Khan comes in. Similarly, Imran's lifelong struggle depicts a person who has overcome and obliterated all hurdles. God has been kind to him. His political struggle of the last 15 years has been built on the momentum he gained from making Pakistan the world's best cricketing nation and then giving us one of the world's best cancer hospitals where the not-so-rich are treated for free. His party (Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf) is now topping all the popularity polls and all it needs now is translation into votes. And this is where the people of Pakistan come in. This is a story of two parallel lives; one collective,one individual, both interlinked and both very fascinating.

I started reading this book on my plane journey to the USA. I am not an avid reader and I soon put a book down after only a few pages but I was glued to this one. I have never seen Pakistan but my ancestors are from Pakistan. Perhaps this affinity also increased my desire to know what has been happening to my parents country. Imran supplied a lot of answers in a concise, interesting and logical manner. Imran seems to be someone dedicated to social purpose altruistically and Pakistanis all over the world are pinning for a leader like Imran. May he be victorious and improve the well being of all Pakistanis with as he says islamic principals of welfare and equality. He is also a leader who can win the west over for the betterment of his nation.

It takes a measure of a man to admit his shortcomings on a repetitive basis. Imran has written biographies before and I presume most of us may have seen his commentaries on TV but the way he has opened up his thought pattern in this book is exceptional. Whilst Journalists like Pamela Constable (Playing With Fire), Ethan Casey (Overtaken by Events) or even Kim Barker (The Taliban Shuffle) may not have much to say about Imran, I feel it is a missed opportunity since the aforementioned authors waste so much time on Zardari and the Sharif Brothers. Even the Pakistani Author Ahmed Rashid (Descent into Chaos) misses him. This is an annoying trend that is also shared by most of the western media (barring the rare NPR clip) and what irks me is that as a politician with growing influence, Imran deserves due recognition. Furthermore, he is far more worthy 'ambassador' of Pakistan than say the Sharif Brothers. The book is an easy read and Imran has been critical of everyone, primarily himself. This is staggering given the disdainful arrogance he displayed as a cricketer and brash methodology he used to come across as a politician. His blunt honesty, deep insight and great anecdotes make this book a tremendous read. He gives credit to people and institutions where it is due, honors those who have helped him in his quests whilst at the same time shies away from self glorification. In comparison of this book, Musharraf's "In the Line of Fire" fails to dwell on issues that matter but instead wastes pages on "childhood first crushes" and practical jokes played throughout an adolescent age. The opening sequence of "Pakistan" fills in the gaps the media did not cover when Imran was arrested in Lahore. The pages across illuminate the anguish and agony Imran - and possibly all of us empathize with but also take time to let the reader soak in the sheer joy felt during the accomplishments of some of Imran's goals. As a post script, the page and an half of Nawaz Sharif as a self-appointed captain sum opening batsman facing the 'fearsome' West Indian bowling attack of '87 in Lahore is simply hilarious. Splendid, really.

An amazing book about a charismatic World Leader based on true events.

Its an amazing read for people to get an overview of what Pakistan was and is. You get to know a side of Imran and the reasons he chose to come into politics. He's not saying that's he's perfect but he sure is honest. If you've followed Imran Khan's press conferences some things might be repetitive but he's come out in the open like no one else has. I surely recommend it. This man has gone through a lot of struggle to get to where he is and its not for any personal gains. His story is an amazing story in tenacity and belief. Read it to believe it

Myself being a product of diaspora, found it quite informative. It was journey well worth and written by a man has not only studied at Oxford but who also understand the perspectiva from the western point of View. For those of us who have lived in the west and adopted to the thinking and way of living of the host country and unavoidingly gave a tendency to be swayed by the popular media, its a must read to debate and dialogue. Thank you Imran. Not only a cricketer but also a mentor in more than one way.

I would completely recommend this book to anyone interesting in not only learning about Imran Khan's views on the Pakistan but also on the complexities and beauty of Pakistan itself. A must read for both Pakistanis in Pakistan, those living abroad and non-Pakistanis everywhere.