Motoring with Mohammed: Journeys to Yemen and the Red Sea

Every since learning of this book I have been looking forward to read it simply because it involved traveling in Yemen, a country that has a long and interesting history and is a place that is not accessible to much of the world's citizens currently. Having had the opportunity to visit Sana'a, Yemen for a week in 2009, and knowing that it was a rare and unique experience that I will not have again for a long time, I have become interested in what the country is like outside of Sana'a. Reading the news lately, it really seems like it is the "wild west" out there. I can only imagine what it is truly like.Eric Hansen's book reveals so much of the culture of life in Yemen in the late 20th century, and I am truly grateful to him for this gift of wisdom. Plus, what an adventure. He went through many wonderful travel dreams that many of us have thought of, but in reality they are probably just as dangerous or even more so than what happened to Hansen during his first trip to Yemen. I still focus on his description of the beauty of living in solitude after the shipwreck with his companions and, for a certain time, being free from the constraints and expectations of the outside world. How many of us have not dreamed of spending some time on a deserted island?What also resonated with me was the basis of his return to Yemen ten years after the shipwreck. Ever since reading "Into the Wild", I learned of the possible utility of burying valuables and coming back for them later. This was beneficial and successful for McCandless, but for Hansen it turned in to a adventure that by necessity gained him access to the colorful spectrum of Yemeni culture that could only be experienced by a "Westerner" years ago, and even then it was fraught with difficulty.This was the second book I have read by Hansen and I am truly impressed and fulfilled by the way he creates the narrative. This book is a beautiful and brilliantly unique journey and it was amazing to experience it through his eyes, ears and spirit.

This book- As are all of Eric's books, are entertaining and interesting, well written, and offer an interesting perspective on things and geographical area's outside of the typical radar shadow.

I second the views of several reviewers that this is one of the best travel books they've ever read. Hansen takes us through Yemen as if we were riding (or sailing) with him. I never gave much thought to or knew much about Yemen but, thanks to Hansen, I have a new and positive view of it. His willingness to get out and experience many facets of this country enriches his descriptions. His good humor and sensitivity to its people are gratifying. But this is more than just a travelogue. Hansen's quest for his buried notebooks is a compelling story in itself. That plot and this venue combine to make this an irresistible and meritorious book. I look forward to reading more from this intrepid and gifted writer.

Having worked many years in the Yemen some of which were concurrent with the authors time in country I can assure you that his story telling is spot on. He reflects the beauty and spirit of the people and country in a way that is seldom found. When people ask me about my time in Yemen I just give them a copy of this book.

I'm so happy to have this book! I lost mine when I moved from the Arabian Peninsula and it's one of my favorites. So entertainingly written without being disrespectful of the people in that region. I can't believe I got the hardback for less than the paperback! (The seller was great, BTW: having the book arrive in perfect condition, plus it arrived earlier than projected.)

This is the second outstanding travel book produced by a remarkably curious and adventurous traveler who, by chance, ends up being immersed in a culture that is unknown to most of us. Beautifully written with insight and humor and a pleasure to read!

This is the best of Eric Hansen's books, no mean feat considering that his writing is always top of the line. Motoring with Mohammed is a snapshot of a time and place long gone, and of international, off the beaten path travel before most Americans bothered to leave the US other than to go to resorts. Great writing, [ick it up, you won't be sorry.

The author has written an engaging, entertaining, beautifully discriptive book of Yemen. I visited Sana'a about 15 years ago and his book really hits the mark. I particularly enjoy how Mr. Hansen captures the culture and attitudes of the Yemen. He knows that that that culture is 180 degrees from Western culture and he treats Yemeni religion, customs and attitudes with respect and openness - yet does not patronize as do many other travel books.His writing is witting, self-deprecating and honest - completely enjoyable.

I loved this book! In part because I lived in Yemen for over three years and travelled to Kamaran Island - close to where Hanson was ship-wrecked. It reminded me of the many life lessons we can learn through travel and interaction with other cultures. It's a fast read and everyone I've given it to has also loved it.

Hansen is a wonderfully inclusive travel writer, he never patronises or grandstands but takes the reader along with him, excited to share his experiences. I loved this book and enjoyed discovering the Yemem through Hansen's engaging descriptions. It works as a travel book and also an adventure story and as well as being insightful has great moments of humour.

Order arrived very promptly and was as described