Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace . . . One School at a Time

  Author:    Greg Mortenson, David Oliver Relin
  ISBN:    0143038257
  Sales Rank:    14
  Published:    2007-01-30
  Publisher:    Penguin (Non-Classics)
  # Pages:    368
  Binding:    Paperback
  Avg. Rating:    5.0 based on 1215 reviews
  Used Offers:    88 from $7.32
  Amazon Price:    $9.00
  (Data above last updated:  2008-08-21 09:45:18 EST)
  
  
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Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace . . . One School at a Time
  
The astonishing, uplifting story of a real-life Indiana Jones and his humanitarian campaign to use education to combat terrorism in the Taliban?s backyard

Anyone who despairs of the individual?s power to change lives has to read the story of Greg Mortenson, a homeless mountaineer who, following a 1993 climb of Pakistan?s treacherous K2, was inspired by a chance encounter with impoverished mountain villagers and promised to build them a school. Over the next decade he built fifty-five schools?especially for girls?that offer a balanced education in one of the most isolated and dangerous regions on earth. As it chronicles Mortenson?s quest, which has brought him into conflict with both enraged Islamists and uncomprehending Americans, Three Cups of Tea combines adventure with a celebration of the humanitarian spirit.

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08-19-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Boys and Girls: Raining on this Happy Parade
Reviewer Permalink
Yes, this is a marvelous tale of compassion and dedication. But there are reasons to fear that it's sadly misdirected and may not accomplish all that it might.

The problem lies in the basic mission of the Central Asia Institute as stated on their website (ikat dot org): "To Promote and support community-based education, especially for girls, in remote regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan." That's backed up by the picture at the top of that web page, which has what appears to be four girls and a single boy reading books, the boy appearing smaller, more withdrawn, and slightly separated from the girls. The girls belong to a group. He is an outsider. The cover of this book displays an even greater bias. It shows three girls and no boys.

Educating girls is good. Educating boys is good. But educating girls in preference to boys is a prescription for disaster, particularly in that culture and at this time in history. Why? Because in that volatile, ideologically driven culture, it creates the danger that education will become something that girls do and boys don't. Boys will seek meaning elsewhere, particularly in drugs and violence, both easily available in that region. The more Western the education being given to girls, the more anti-Western these boys will become. And if I had to state which side would win, it would be those angry young men. Size, strength, and violence trump all else. These schools may meet with less opposition than they would have met had they laid special stress on educating boys instead. Greg Mortenson's foes may know something he doesn't.

Last year, a friend talked to me about programs in Africa that help women set up small businesses. When I asked him what that would mean for all the now-unnecessary young men, deprived of any role in family life, he had no answer. When I pointed out to him that a few thousand angry young men could reduce the typical African country to absolute chaos, nullifying all the good those programs for women might accomplish, he still had no answer.

Not amount of politically correct dogma can erase one important fact. If you want to establish a healthy, stable society, you need devote much greater effort to turning boys into the right sort of men than you do teaching girls to be women. Feminist may rage, but biology drives what girls become. Culture determines whether boys become dedicated fathers or angry, sexual predators.

If they truly want to "fight terrorism and build nations one school at at time," Greg Mortenson and his Central Asia Institute need to reverse their emphasis, taking on the far more difficulty task of training and educating boys to be men. Otherwise, I fear much of their effort may be in vain and even counterproductive.

--Michael W. Perry
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-20 09:41:38 EST)
08-19-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Education is productive, war is not
Reviewer Permalink
Greg is an inspiration. I hope to take the message of his book and contribute in someway myself. At a time when I disagree so whole-heartedly with the way our government is conducting itself, it is nice to find someone like Greg to give us hope. Would these "evil terrorists" as George W. would call them, even exist if they had an opportunity to have a balanced education. Something we American's take for granted. The heroics come not form being proud, having to puff out our chest and show that we are something. No, heroics is true compassion, it is a humble man like Greg and all of those who support him. This is a book that everyone should read.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-20 09:41:38 EST)
08-18-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Three Cups of Tea: A World Revealed
Reviewer Permalink
I have purchased multiple copies of this book for family and friends. I have been to Pakistan and found the book deeply moving. I am a college president, and I have thought of using the book as a text for a leader-servant class I teach. To read this book is to be left with a deeper understanding of Pakistan and the world -- and to be inspired in the process that one person can do much to bless lives.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-20 09:41:38 EST)
08-18-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Books instead of bombs
Reviewer Permalink
Everyone should read this inspirational book that takes readers into the heart of a foreign land most will never set foot upon. I am amazed at the challenges that Greg Mortensen faced, yet still he forged onward despite obstacle after obstacle. Unable to summit the world's second highest peak in the Himalaya, Mortensen stumbles upon a village called Korphe in his descent after almost losing his life on K2. Befriended by these humble, loyal people, Mortensen vows to build a school for this village. This promise turns into decades, and a lifetime, of revolutionizing Pakistan and Afghanistan's educational systems.

If anyone questions the heroism in Mortensen and the slew of financial supporters in the United States and the core group in Pakistan, it is evidenced by the thousands of school children that would never have received the education that they were afforded if not by the Central Asia Institute (CAI). The most phenomenal aspect of this book is that it successfully illustrates how consequential are the negative stereotypes Westerners have of Islamic culture. Relin and Mortensen beautifully illustrate the peaceloving men and women of this region and how poverty and ignorance are more responsible for the dilemmas of religious extremism far more than anything else. Though this book most certainly does not primarily serve as a critique on the US's role in Iraq, the book keenly and sadly sheds light on America's major missteps and failures in the war through the personal testimonies of the people he meets. Mortensen and the CIA's efforts to bring books to Pakistan and Afghanistan- rather than bombs- was a major effort of bravery, courage, and determination and one that hauntingly illustrates the unnecessary loss of human life.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-20 09:41:38 EST)
08-18-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Three Cups of Tea
Reviewer Permalink
The book is excellent and vividly written. My Great Books Club is studying it in October and both the author and Greg Mortenson are coming to give programs in Rockford, IL this fall. I hope to catch them both. And Amazon - thank you for all the great service and no screw-ups all these years! Marion Wilke
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-20 09:41:38 EST)
08-18-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Great Story, timely topic
Reviewer Permalink
This is an amazing book. As many other reviewers have said, it may even change your life. Greg Mortensen's story is a real page-turner and in the end I think you will say something like: "Wow. I had no idea. In the face of incredible obstacles, one person with a heart can have a huge impact."

Read this book. Give a copy to a friend.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-20 09:41:38 EST)
08-17-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Little by little
Reviewer Permalink
In a world overcome by the utter stupidity of current American foreign policy, and the economic downturn resulting from the incredible debacles of Afghanistan and Iraq by the US, Greg Mortenson reminds the rest of the English speaking world that not all Americans are utter morons when it comes to dealing with non-Americans.

A mountaineer, who was only in that part of the Himalayas to conquer one of the world's most difficult peaks, Mortenson showed his gratitude to the local tribespeople who helped him when lost on the ice, by building a bridge and an elementary school where there had never been any.

In a most incredible series of happenstances, Mortenson showed his humaneness, a virtue sadly lacking in most official American actions outside the US, and his willingness to see people in Pakistan as people. Compared to the usual US dismissal of civilians as "collateral" in strife torn areas, Mortenson shows us they are human, real, caring for strangers, and loving of family and clan.

Little by little, one step at a time, he did more for promoting the image of a caring US in that region, than any official action by the current US administration ever has.

Highly recommended reading, and with magnificent pics.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-20 00:16:19 EST)
08-17-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Life changing.
Reviewer Permalink
This is a MUST read. I have done volunteer work for a while now.. but never in my life have I ever felt THIS inspired. Make all your friends read it... donate to Mortenson's cause... this book can change our future.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-20 00:16:19 EST)
08-17-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Deeds not words.
Reviewer Permalink
A truly humbling story about one of the most overlooked regions of the world. This book was not written to entertain book clubs or provide an amusing distraction on a lazy afternoon, it was written to send a message. Greg's is a story worth telling, and his life's work is worthy of the publicity this book has allowed. For American readers especially, be prepared to step away from any preconceptions, anything you thought you knew about the Middle East, Islam, terrorism, and what it means to live your life philosophy. Mortenson and Relin remind us that the human desire for normalcy- the value of family, education and security- is not limited by the white picket fences of American suburbia, but is, in fact, universal. Thank you to the authors for showing the world what one man, unburdened by social norms and unafraid of failure, can do to help another.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-20 00:16:19 EST)
08-17-08 5 1\2
(Hide Review...)  Should be required reading...for the world!
Reviewer Permalink
Great story, great read, well done! How anyone could pan this book is beyond me. But then again if a reader expects a USA Today newspaper type synopsis then this book would be too much of an eye opener for them (hence the 1 star ratings by some that failed to understand the overall message). The prose helped detail a great story of a true American hero. This is an enjoyable read that you will not want to put down!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-20 00:16:19 EST)
08-16-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Good cause, great read.
Reviewer Permalink
In all the raving about the wonderful things Greg Mortenson is trying to accomplish in Pakistan and Afghanistan, it's easy to overlook the fact that this book is a fantastic read. It literally made me both laugh and cry. I don't know if I ever would have picked it up myself, but it was given to me as a gift. Like the other reviewers I was impressed with what Greg is trying to accomplish, but I also can't emphasize enough how much I enjoyed the book as well. Even if you aren't looking to made a donation or support Greg's cause, you should still consider this book, just for the wonderful story.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-19 06:21:37 EST)
08-16-08 5 1\2
(Hide Review...)  Absolutely Phenomenal
Reviewer Permalink
I read this book while on vacation, the copy I read was a borrowed copy, I now own one! You felt the passion of Greg Mortenson and desired to go help him, to be a part of what he is doing. When I returned home I bought a copy for my library and for a friend. This is must reading!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-19 06:21:37 EST)
08-16-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  3 cups of tea
Reviewer Permalink
i've read at least 20 books so far this year and this is THE BEST ONE YET.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-19 06:21:37 EST)
08-16-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  California Born
Reviewer Permalink
This is the most eye opening, educational, amazing book I have ever read. Thank you, Mr. Mortensen for educating me. Bless you and your family.

(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-19 06:21:36 EST)
08-15-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Inspirational and educational!
Reviewer Permalink
This is a great read! The story of this amazing man is spectacular, but how it relates to the current political relationship between the US and Muslim's in the Milddle East is most important. How much could we improve the lives of people like these all over the world to promote peace and companionship with the money we've spent in the Iraq war? We have much to learn from this book.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-17 06:16:21 EST)
08-15-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Inspiring
Reviewer Permalink
This is one of the most inspiring books I have read in a very long time. It inspires one to believe that a single person, with major focus, can truly make a difference in this world today that is fraught with hatred and misconceptions about the world.
This book should be required reading for all of the so called presidential candidates.
I highly recommend this book to all who have lost faith in the world, and in the conceppt that each of us can truly make a difference in this world, one step at a time.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-17 06:16:21 EST)
08-15-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Wonderful read and importantly informative!
Reviewer Permalink
This is a heartwarming story of one man's caring, courage, fidelity, and tenacity making a real and positive difference in a difficult and dangerous part of the world. Greg Mortenson's approach and example are so much better than anything else I have heard of in that regard that I think he should be made an adviser to the next Administration in Washington, DC. I rate this book a perfect ten on a scale of 1 to 10.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-17 06:16:21 EST)
08-14-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  The Enemy is Ignorance
Reviewer Permalink
What an inspiration this is! It makes me want to be a better person and contribute more. Education, not bombs, is the answer but not just education in these struggling countries but here at home.

When Uzra was asked if wearing the burkha made her feel oppressed she responded by saying, "We women of Afghanisa see the light through education, noth through this or that hole in a piece of cloth."

This man should get the Nobel Peace prize.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-17 06:16:22 EST)
08-14-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Three Cups of Tea
Reviewer Permalink
Every man woman and child above the age of 10 should read this book. Greg Mortensen is an American we should all be proud of and support. We can all learn a valuable lesson from his book. He is what we should all be about.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-17 06:16:22 EST)
08-14-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  This book hits hard. Very hard. It made me cry.
Reviewer Permalink
This book is amazing. I have never cried while reading a book before. I was sitting at work reading this book, and i got to a part when I had to put the book down because tears were streaming down my face. I was happy i had my sunglasses on.

This book made me cry for the same reason Schindler's List does (second fav movie of all time, after the good the bad and the ugly). It tells the story of someone that does so much good that that good spills over into my soul. Mortenson helped so many people in so many ways and finally it got to the point where i couldn't cope with it any more during one of the more profound moments in the book. Reading this book made me want to drop everything in my life and go out and start helping people. Making a real difference like the man that the story is about.

I was assigned this book for summer reading for college. Originally i was like ok just another book about helping people. As i continued to read i got more and more into it. The writing style is very captivating, and draws you in very well. It tells Greg Mortenson's story without making it seem that he is full of himself in any ways (which is he definitely not) but when writing a story about someone who has done so many positive things it is sometimes hard to do. Read this book if you want to be moved. Mortenson is speaking at my school in a few weeks and i am looking forward an incredible amount. Read this Book!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-17 06:16:21 EST)
08-14-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Superb. Will open your eyes and give you hope...
Reviewer Permalink
Nothing left to say that hasn't been said (literally) a thousand times. I read this book 9 months ago and regularly think about it. That's only happened once or twice in my 44 years on this planet
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-17 06:16:22 EST)
08-13-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Incredible
Reviewer Permalink
This is one of the most transformative books I have ever read. It will challenge your thoughts on Pakistan and inspire you to find ways to live just a little more like Mortensen.

Hands down one of the best books of the year.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-15 06:19:48 EST)
08-13-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Inspiring Story written by a Poet!
Reviewer Permalink
I finished reading this book just 3 minutes ago, and want to tell you all that it will revive your faith in humanity, if even for just one person. The hero of this true story had many who helped him along the way, but it was his personal integrity, authenticity, humility, compassion, courage and lack of ego, greed or any sort of vice that were the true foundation that supported his goal to build schools in the outback of the Hindu Kushe. The story begins in 1993 when he was an adventurer trying to climb K2 and is written in spellbinding prose through the days of 9/11 to current times. You won't be able to put this book down for long - - that's a promise! 5 Stars, thanks to David Relin's style and Greg Mortenson's story.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-15 06:19:48 EST)
08-13-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  This Book Will Change Your Viewpoint
Reviewer Permalink
Three Cups of Tea is a wonderful book about a wonderful man who does wonderful, impossible things. While this book was not an easy read, I cannot imagine a book more worthwhile reading. It changed the way I look at the world and the way we solve problems. It will make you realize that anything is possible and the world while somtimes a terrifying place can be tamed, not with war but with compassion and education.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-15 06:19:48 EST)
08-12-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Every American should read this book
Reviewer Permalink
This book was inspirational on so many levels. Not only for what Greg is able to accomplish to promote peace thru books not bombs but also as a motivational inspiration to show how ONE person can make a difference and how one person can start with NOTHING and accomplish their goal just by sheer determination. Every high school teacher should put this on their READING list for students and every person should read it now.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-14 06:15:38 EST)
08-12-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great book
Reviewer Permalink
This is a great book that really makes you think about the way people live and how we think about muslims. It will make you want to go to D.C. and protest how we are scamming the middle east. It is well written but the story is really the great part. a must read regardles of your religous, social, or economic situation and what type of books you are into.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-14 06:15:38 EST)
08-12-08 5 1\2
(Hide Review...)  Opening Hearts and Minds
Reviewer Permalink
I was amazed by the way this story grabbed me and drew me in. It is an excellently written and researched story. Kudos to David Renlin. I'll be looking for more from him.

Highest praise is for our "one man" with a mission, a humble man with the desire and the will to make our world a better place. A man who can teach all of us that it starts with understanding and compassion and the willingness sit down with each other. By the end of the book, I suspect that you will feel the urge to help Greg in his mission. I know I did. I can't give time now, but I can send a donation and a prayer that he can keep on his quest for world peace.
pw
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-14 06:15:38 EST)
08-12-08 5 1\2
(Hide Review...)  The World as It Should Be
Reviewer Permalink
This book is an inspiration to anyone who has ever asked, "How can one person make a difference?"
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-14 06:15:38 EST)
08-12-08 4 1\1
(Hide Review...)  A Truly Inspiring Read
Reviewer Permalink
What a truly inspiring book to read. Three Cups of Tea is a beautifully written journey to save the world...through education not fighting. The characters are wonderfully developed, the setting(s) described in beautiful detail.I wish everyone would read this book and follow in "Dr Grieg's" footsteps.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-14 06:15:38 EST)
08-11-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Extremely moving and inspiring!
Reviewer Permalink
What a bold man to endeavour such challenges. An extremely moving and inspiring book to read. Greg Mortenson is a hero who is changing the face of Pakistan's and Afganistan's future by bringing education to the next generations! A man who has a pure heart and has given everything for children of the earth. A must to be read!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-14 06:15:39 EST)
08-11-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Really Inspiring Story
Reviewer Permalink
I loved this story and was really inspired to do more with my life. I really liked that the writing style was more in the style of fiction writing. I felt that a story like this could end up being related in a really dry fashion otherwise and the descriptive writing really helped me wrap my brain around a landscape completely foreign to me.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-14 06:15:39 EST)
08-11-08 5 2\2
(Hide Review...)  A Moving and Challenging Account
Reviewer Permalink
Three Cups of Tea, the account of Greg Mortenson's search for meaning in life and his discovery of it in an obscure Himalayan village is fascinating, moving and challenging. He fulfilled his promise to repay those who saved his life by building them a school. He presents a challenge to all of us to learn humility and persistence in the process of helping others. He has realized that the helper gains at least as much as the person who has been helped...that people we might judge as inferior and uneducated have much to teach us...that people from vastly different backgrounds can appreciate and enjoy their common humanity...that great good can come from taking one step at a time. All these lessons cause one to reflect seriously on what is valuable in one's life.

Mortenson observes that war is futile and that peace can come only as we educate the very poor to enable them to climb out of their poverty. As of now, Mortenson's efforts have established 64 schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan. They have 520 teachers and 25,000 students.

I have purchased multiple copies of this easily and quickly read book to distribute to friends and local libraries. I consider it a "must" read.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-14 06:15:38 EST)
08-10-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  quality serivce; fast response
Reviewer Permalink
Essential reading for all interested in non military solutions to world disorder. Provides an example for all governments to follow,
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-12 06:16:38 EST)
08-10-08 5 1\2
(Hide Review...)  Best way to fight terrorism with the fraction of what we spend on military arsenal by each one of us following example of Greg
Reviewer Permalink
Excellent Book, a must read for the whole family. Encourage all your friends and family to read and review together.

Best way to fight terrorism with the fraction of what we spend on military arsenal. Greg Mortenson shows us through his determination, compassion and empathy for humanity that how one man can change the world and make a difference for generations to come. How one of us can improve the lives of people whom otherwise had no chance of improving their conditions. It is a superb story from which all the elites can learn that how fighting terrorism by building bridges with books and education is the best way.

As people we should trade our votes for the politicians who promise books, food, and hope and not bombs, despair, and destruction to the world. The world that we had ignored for such a long time and know a very little about is. The world that is filled with people who are just like us, who hope for peace and a better future for their kids.

Mr. Mortenson built 45 schools so far and still building more, if only 10,000 of us support him with only a $1,000 once in our life time which comes to $83.33 per month for only one year about the same amount as our cable/tv bill. We can have 800 schools built. Wow.....you do the rest of the math and the impact that we can have on the world.

I wish our leaders can wake up and smell the coffee and see that the world problems can be solved with less money and effort by eliminating ignorance, poverty and providing hope and not the other way around.

Thank you Mr. Greg Mortenson. You are on of the best example of America, the World and the humanity.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-12 06:16:38 EST)
08-10-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Amazing!!!!
Reviewer Permalink
To sum it up, an amazing book that shows the power of peace.

No matter what your political orientation is, you cannot help but believe in the work that Greg Mortenson is doing. He truly is a hero, working to make the world a better place in a manner that helps, not hurts, humanity. This book was definitely worth reading; it not only edifies but entertains as well...I read it on the beach on vacation and could not put it down!

PLEASE read this book!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-12 06:16:38 EST)
08-10-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  The most effective way to fight terrorism
Reviewer Permalink
This has to be the most effective way to fight terrorism imaginable. People who are educated are more apt to open a dialog than become suicide bombers or fly jetliners into skyscrapers.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-12 06:16:39 EST)
08-10-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  A Must Read for Everyone!
Reviewer Permalink
This moving record of accomplishments is a must read for anyone who cares about education, anyone who cares about children, anyone who cares about peace in our world. Greg Mortenson serves as role model for all who want to make a difference in their community, nation and world.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-12 06:16:38 EST)
08-08-08 5 1\2
(Hide Review...)  There is a reason why this book caught on
Reviewer Permalink
I heard about this book from several different friends and acquaintances. They all gave it glowing praise and said it was a "must read." I finally found time to pick it up and they were right. So right, in fact, that I promptly ordered two more copies for family members.

It's that kind of book. A heartwarming, though at times frustrating, account of what one person can do to heal some of the craziness going on in today's world. Truly inspirational. BUT. . . The account of Greg Mortenson's efforts, bumbles, fumbles, and outright mistakes and miscalculations makes it clear that his enterprise could have gone way off the tracks many times -- it is a wonder he ever pulled it off.

The story is well and competently written thanks to his co-author David Relin.

I am glad I read the book, am pleased to recommend it highly, and encourage everyone to read it, think about its message, and contribute to the work the Greg Mortenson is doing.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-10 06:21:44 EST)
08-08-08 1 2\4
(Hide Review...)  Horrible writing style - a good story badly told by a fan
Reviewer Permalink
It is probably a wonderful story but difficult to get to it thru the minutia that dominates the paragraphs of this book - and in a short while I'll get to the 'probably' part.

Relin starts with the mention of a list Greg gave him, consisting of all the people who are the 'enemies' and asked Relin to talk to them - probably the book has been written prematurely, before talking to these 'enemies', we never got to hear what they had to say abot Greg or his mission. Not only has Greg Mortenson been painted in a saintly color, so has all who are on his side, it doesn't matter if they are Taliban fighters (in theory, he claims!) or taxi drivers. And of course, because Pakistani military is on their side, Relin talks in length and gruelling detail about the civilians killed by shellings from Indian side; no thought or space in this book has been given to the civilians killed on the other side of the border - he sure succeeds in making Indian army look like a monster. However, I thoroughly appreciate the fact that Relin made it crystal clear right in the beginning that he's going to be taking sides.

Now about the 'probably' part... I'm sure Greg Mortenson did a great deal of good for the poor and war-ravaged of Pakistan and Afghanistan, though reading through the details of how he went about building the schools, you'll feel he was giving them as presents to people close to him or beneficial to him - one for the taxi driver, one for Apo, one for the porter who saved his life, and why not throw in another one for his bodyguard! How about just giving some scholarships for the daughters of people near and dear to him - oh, definitely they are one of the brightest students of their class - but also remember that Relin is taking sides! Even Relin's leviathan efforts could not make Mortenson look disciplined, he just gives up on the issue of punctuality (you just can't blame all of this on Africa!) but cutting through the smoke layers you'd probably see why the board members of CAI had tough time working with Greg. Greg, who thinks keeping records of how other people's money is being spent is waste of time to satisfy the 'finicky' accountants; if you are running a charity you have to shoulder some extra responsibility, you can't just treat it as a hobby (very noble hobby at that, I must say; and also fraught with personal peril) financed by donations! If advancement of the poor in the poorest countries is of utmost importance, what's wrong with creating dozens of mini-Gregs as CAIs directors intended - what's the point in making this a personal franchise if I may ask? All in all, I would love to see and hear about Greg and his deeds from a different viewpoint, from somebody who does not prefess to be a fan of his, somebody who can leave out the details about feasts at the foothills of K-range or sleeping in the smoke-filled hallways in this country.

Q - is this propaganda for gearing up for Nobel Peace prize?
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-10 06:21:44 EST)
08-07-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Three Cups of Tea
Reviewer Permalink
Terrific, inspiring, insightful, exciting, book. We need more Greg Mortensons, or we have to become more like him.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-10 06:21:44 EST)
08-07-08 5 2\2
(Hide Review...)  This book touched my soul !
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I bought this book for my grown daughter because we are both tea lovers. I thought the storyline would incorporate tea drinking ceremonies with a worthwhile project in a remote part of the world. I never imagined what was in store for us. I became completely engrossed in Greg's mission, humbled by what I was reading, embarrassed that I had not heard of or read about this mission before, and became very emotional. When 9/11 hit, I was angry that our world was changing, that there was so much hate and ignorance, and that my future grandchildren would be growing up in a world of terror. Education has always been emphasized in my family as I am sure it is in many families. But Greg took this giant leap. We ALL need to take this giant leap. This is the best book I have ever read. It touched my soul. Read it and do something, anything, to make a difference in this world.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-10 06:21:44 EST)
08-07-08 4 1\2
(Hide Review...)  Everyone needs to read this
Reviewer Permalink
If you are frustrated with the current state of world affairs, particularly America's role in them, read this wonderful book. Greg Mortensen is not a Superman, just a guy willing to take personal risks to bring education to children (especially girls) in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Nevertheless, he is doing Super work, and asking for nothing more than donations to build even more schools. His work shows how we need to be in a war of ideas, not one of weapons. But this is not a preachy book - it is actually pretty exciting and very moving.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-10 06:21:44 EST)
08-06-08 5 1\2
(Hide Review...)  Best book I've read in a long time.
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This is one of the best books I've ever read. I don't read a lot of non-fiction, but Dan Oliver Relin is a great writer. He writes like an eloquent journalist, and yes, it's different from regular fiction, but he does an amazing job of bringing out a beautiful picture of every situation he's talking about - and also, of displaying the magnitude of the emotions and situations he writes about.

Beyond that, Three Cups of Tea is one of the most amazing stories I've ever heard. This guy started with no money, living in his car, and he has now given schools to more than 25,000 students in Afghanistan and Pakistan, focusing on educating girls. This book made me realize how ignorant I am about the region, and also, how ignorant our government is (something I already knew to an extent)- but the things in this book are jaw-dropping. Greg was in Pakistan during the 9/11 attacks and it's really eye-opening to see what the people over there went through and how they acted toward Americans -- it's the stuff you don't see on the news. He's gotten permission from Pakistani leaders and war lords to do his work, and has talked to people that the American government couldn't hope to communicate with because of what they've done. It doesn't just read like a newspaper article, it's full of moving personal stories of the Balti, Afghan, and Pakistani people and, most of all, the extremely moving story of what Greg Mortenson does for them.

This guy saw something good that could be done and actually did it, and it wasn't easy. He's fighting terror from within these countries, for billions less than our government spends. Instead of getting hit by shrapnel, these children are coming in contact people who genuinely care about them, and getting a balanced, non-extremist education. That's something that could affect them for a lifetime, and will give them an alternative choice when they're asked to join the Taliban.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-09 09:04:31 EST)
08-06-08 5 2\3
(Hide Review...)  Reaching the highest summit
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Sometimes the only way to find what you are looking for is by getting lost. Often, the only way to achieve victory is first to fail. If Greg Mortenson had not yet learned these two lessons when attempting to reach the summit of K2 in 1993--the second highest mountain in the world but, it is said, the toughest to climb--then he learned these lessons on the way down. He would never forget.

Greg Mortenson is a three-cup tea drinker. In Pakistan and Afghanistan, the tradition is that with the first cup, one is a stranger; with the second cup, one is a friend; but with the third cup, one has become family. For family, one is prepared to do anything, even to sacrifice one's life.

As a young man, Mortenson was a mountain climber and a military man, so he understood hard work and discipline. He had learned how to set a goal, keep his eyes on the summit, and go for it--with everything in him. Climbing K2 was a special challenge he had set for himself, a kind of tribute to his sister who had died young. He failed the climb, however, and when he turned around, short of the summit, and headed back down, Mortenson realized that he had gotten lost. He had intended to meet his guide in a town in the foothills, but instead had kept going down the road and ended up in a village in the Karakoram mountains. Exhausted, hungry, filthy, he was greeted with three cups of wretched tasting tea and the warm embrace of family.

Three Cups of Tea is the story of Greg Mortenson's decade of building 55 schools across Pakistan and Afghanistan in gratitude for that moment of welcome for a lost man. Many of them are schools for girls, the often forgotten ones who find a new chance at life through education. While for much of his first years in this role, Mortenson himself toes the edge of poverty, working on a bare bone salary, funding much of the school building through the kindness of a rich mentor and various other donations, he is finally recognized for the work that he does after the events of 9/11. No, not right away. Initially, he receives bags of hate mail for "helping the enemy." But there comes a fascinating turning point in the story when wiser minds begin to realize that the answer to terrorism, perpetrated, after all, by a few, is not the violence of war against many, but through the expression of human kindness--and education.

This is truly a remarkable story. If anyone deserves the Nobel Peace Prize (and there is such talk), then it is Greg Mortenson. This story is about the world-altering change one man can create. Let no one ever again say that one person cannot make a difference.

Written by David Oliver Relin, who travels all of Mortenson's paths to record this story, it is far more fascinating than any novel. Mortenson climbed his mountain. Not K2, but a mountain that no one believed he could climb, and he took 55 schools full of eager children, and the villages that surrounded them, to the highest summit.

Not only highly recommended. This book is a must, must, must read, and no less so with the elections of leaders now looming.




(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-09 09:04:31 EST)
08-06-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Pure Brilliance!
Reviewer Permalink
I read the book, then my wife read it, and then all of our friends finished the book in record time. One evening, my boys (ages 8 and 6) asked me about Three Cups of Tea (after overhearing many conversations about it). I tried to explain, however, I finally gave up and simply sat down and started reading it to them. After a few weeks we finished and we are all better for the experience. They have started raising money already, and plan to talk to their school's teachers and administrators as soon as school starts again in a few weeks to try to develop a fundraising program for the entire school.

Well done Greg and David!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-09 09:04:31 EST)
08-05-08 5 1\2
(Hide Review...)  At long last - a true everyday's perspective of daily life in the countries we fail to understand
Reviewer Permalink
A truly informative and descriptive view of everyday life in areas of the middle east, it portrays some of the day to day routines which are so enlightening of things that we take for granted in the Western world. Can we make this book mandatory reading for those making uninformed decisions on what is best for countries that they don't culturally or socially understand! Wonderful read! Would highly recommend!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-08 06:17:51 EST)
08-05-08 5 1\2
(Hide Review...)  Highly Recommend
Reviewer Permalink
As a mother of two, with no time to spare, I found the time to read this book and finish it! It was well worth it! Greg Mortenson would have made Mother Teresa proud! He is an inspiration. The world needs more people like Greg Mortenson and Jean Hoerni! What a great team of peace.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-08 06:17:51 EST)
08-04-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  A "must read" book.
Reviewer Permalink
Everything the other positive reviews say about this book is accurate. Read it; you will be glad you did.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-07 06:05:58 EST)
08-03-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Best book ever
Reviewer Permalink
I absolutely love this book! It has everything, drama, suspense, education, and best of all...inspiration!! At times, I couldn't put it down. More than once I stayed up until 4:00 am reading because I just had to learn what would happen next. Greg Mortenson is a true hero, and I think we all have a bit of hero in us. I hope this book inspires many people to realize the hero within, it would make the world a better place.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-06 06:07:34 EST)
08-03-08 5 0\2
(Hide Review...)  GLOBAL PEACE
Reviewer Permalink
I am in awe of Greg Mortenson and his childhood as the child of American missionaries in Africa. As a child he interacted with people from another culture. As an adult, he enters an Asian culture and feels completely at home with tribal members....not just that...he obviously loves the people he meets, especially the children. Three Cups of Tea describes what we all could be doing to create a world of understanding and peace. Highly inspirational for the hands-on work he does, not only in Pakistan and Afghanistan, but also for the model of love he shares.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-06 06:07:34 EST)
  
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