University of Ulster lecturer Paul Dixon takes a textbook approach literally to the Troubles in "Northern Ireland: The Politics of War and Peace."

Though it is thorough and informative, Dixon's book is quite dry, and reads like a history written almost entirely for sociology students.

This is unfortunate because Dixon's approach to the Troubles is refreshing, balancing both the battle of bombs and bullets with the more subtle psychological aspects of war. (Dixon focuses mostly on events since the 1960s.)

The brief sections on the main players and parties will also be useful to those whose interest in this centuries-old, complicated struggle is new.

Where Dixon may lose general readers is in sections which break down the struggle into "Agency Oriented" and "Structural" explanations. Or perhaps you prefer the "Strategic-Rational Approach." This doesn't quite capture the passions of the North.

(

$65 / 334 pages /

Palgrave)