russia

...much better than any movie, although it would make a great one. A real life adventure covering the exploits of a British Adventurer, Diplomat, Soldier and Spy, before and during the Second World War.
Sir Fitzroy MacLean is today a little known personality that enabled the Allies, with the help of Tito's Partisans, to hold quite a few German Divisions tide-up in the Balkan Theater.
The book however is so much more than a depiction of guerilla fighting in the Balkans during WWII, it provides a rare glimpse into the pre-war Soviet Union, the travel restrictions binding a foreign 'traveler', the beauties of Russia, Kazakhstan, Afghanistan among many other places (e.g. France, Iraq, Egypt, North Africa, Italy, etc.). The very culmination of this great life story ends in the volatile Balkans.
This book would truly make a great movie.

Fitzroy MacLean writes a true and entertaining story of his life as a British diplomat escapading around Russia, starting the British version of the Special Forces in the deserts of North Africa during WWII, and, of great interest to current politics, his time with Tito in the former Yugoslavia. He is funny and entertaining presenting a lesson of history. Very honest and easy to read. A must read for anyone into WWII history or anyone in the military today.

Eastern Approaches documents the extraordinary travels and life of Fitzroy MacLean. Maclean was a British diplomat who while in Russia became one of the first westerners to explore Central Asia during the Soviet rule. He worked with the British special forces in the North African desert and worked on behalf of the allies with the partisans in Yugoslavia during the Second world war.

Well written, this book is a worthwhile read for anybody seeking a bit of adventure in their life. These miraculous tales (true none the least) will keep you entertained throughout.