KURDS

The Kurds of western Asia, whose homeland is divided among several hostile nations, get sympathetic treatment in this brief account of their history, present situation, and prospects. In a simple text illustrated with well-chosen and -reproduced color photos (including one of a dead mother and baby), King presents the horrifying facts, using stories of individuals in Iraq, Iran, and Turkey to illustrate differences among the troubles Kurds face in those countries. Making clear their common fear of alien governments that seem to want to assimilate them at the cost of their culture, he makes no rosy predictions. Brief boxed articles fortify the text with quotes from contemporary journalists and brief individual accounts. Fascinating information, if a bit one- sided. Addresses to write for further information; glossary; bibliography; index. (Nonfiction. 10-15)