Amazon.com (ISBN 0679776133, Paperback)

On the surface, it isn't surprising that the histories of Israel and Europe are intertwined. With such heavy U.S. involvement in recent decades, however, it bears remembering that Europe played a far larger role in the development of Israel during its first 30 years. Howard M. Sachar, whose previous books include sweeping surveys such as The Course of Modern Jewish History and A History of Israel: From the Rise of Zionism to Our Time, is one of the greatest historians of the Jewish people. In Israel and Europe: An Appraisal in History, he focuses on the European powers and their tangled relationships with Israel. Sachar presents a compelling narrative, detailing Israel's shifting alliances: the Soviet Union's early support of the Zionists and later aid to their Arab foes, France's full assistance and later indifference, Britain's friendship moving from Palestine to Israel as an attempt to maintain a foothold in the Holy Land, and the rise of Germany as Israel's staunchest European ally. Sachar's obvious love of Israel lends passion to his tale without distorting his judgment. Scholar and general reader alike will appreciate Sachar's achievement in telling this complicated history in a concise and clear manner.