Personal, Sound Rich, Thoughtful
Big stories come and go, but the personal stories inside the big stories can be timeless.
Quite simply, this is long-form narrative radio journalism at its best. Ahmed's story reveals the complexity of a war which has not ended - which is why this piece still should be heard. Early on I was somewhat concerned there might be too much narration. But it's so well-written and delivered in such a direct yet intimate manner that I was drawn into a world I may have seen on television, but never experienced quite so deeply as now. The use of sound throughout is brilliant. You are there - sharing dinner with a family, shoulder to shoulder with soldiers, celebrating victory too soon. Ahmed himself is such an intelligent, humorous and engaging hero that the understated tragedy of his death is very powerful. Big stories come and go, but the personal stories inside the big stories can be timeless. No matter how much you think you know about the war in Iraq, this story is bound to give you (and your listeners) new insights.
David Swatling
, Radio Netherlands
Amsterdam
April 20, 2005
The invasion of Iraq, as witnessed by an American reporter and his Iraqi translator, guide and friend
Emily Hanford
