Genghis: Birth of an Empire: A Novel (The Khan Dynasty)

Rarely do I come across a book series that transports my mind to another world like this. Every time I would pick up the book I was there with Genghis "Temujin" as a boy, watching him survive after being abandoned and work his way up to being the great Khan. I also just finished reading the other 4. Thank you Conn Iggulden for writing such a masterpiece.

I've read the entire Ghengis series by Conn Iggulden and enjoyed every one of them thoroughly.However, Iggulden takes serious liberties with his history, which I find sometimes astonishing. If you read, for example,  Ascent: The Rise of Chinggis Khan (Heaven's Favorite)  you'll find major, material differences in the history (although this book mentioned is not nearly as well written as Iggulden's).I truly am baffled as to why Iggulden takes so much liberty with the history. The real history actually makes more sense and is just as entertaining, if not more entertaining!Big deal? Perhaps not. I enjoyed the heck out of these books, but just realize you are not getting real history here. You are getting a story that has a few facts but mostly fiction.Other issues are context -- it's difficult to understand Iggulden's Khan books sometimes, because he glosses over important historical context in the interest of keeping the plot moving. For example, there were tremendously interesting dynamics between the Tartars, the Xiaxing dynasty and the Jin (Jurchen) dynasty which would have made Khan's motives make so much more sense. Never is it mentioned that Khan was the great-grandson of Khabul Khan (the first "Khan" to unite the tribes years before Ghengis), a critical piece of history which explained much of Ghengis' legitimacy in bringing the tribes together.In addition, he introduces words and concepts that are simply unknown to most western readers, without any explanation. As an example, he speaks of "sprinkling airag", but does not explain that this is a key ritual when drinking this fermented milk, involving sprinkling it in the four directions of the earth, to the sky and the ground. A minor issue, perhaps, but something that would have been helpful in understanding the cultural dynamics of the tribes.In short, prepare yourself for a fun, entertaining read, but just realize that Iggulden is writing fiction with a few facts. If you're ok with that, buy the book. And I've pre-ordered his next book on Kublai, so I'm certainly still a reader.

"Genghis: Birth of an Empire" is one of those rare books that is good enough to make you want to read the entire series. Conn Iggulden transports the reader into the brutal world of the Mongols and the beginning of Genghis Khan's rise to power. Known as the leader who united the Mongols, Temujin's (Genghis Khan's birth name) life and outlook were shaped by betrayal, survival, and conquering. Iggulden's first book in the series follows Temujin from childhood until he begins uniting the tribes with the intention of conquering the Chin dynasty.Iggulden's writing is clear and concise; he creates an environment and a historical period which the reader can easily picture. The characters are distinct and memorable. Although the names are unusual, the reader should have no trouble remembering each one without confusion. I found myself easily able to discuss the characters and their roles in the novel. Personalities evolve and grow; attitudes and ethics change, sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse.I recommend this book to anyone who loves excellent historical fiction which is based on actual events and individuals. Both men and women will find this novel hard to put down; it is one to take on a cruise or when travelling. I am looking forward to continuing reading this series and will definitely be purchasing more of Conn Iggulden's works.

I started reading Iggulden's stories in late November, all that I have left to read are the two Greek volumes. I shall be sorry to complete them and certainly wait impatiently for more of his works.

Very pleasant and instructive reading

I was pleasantly surprised at how close to what is considered accurate this novel was. I purchased this book and the following 3 in the series because I am interested in the life and times of Genghis Khan. I have also purchased "On the Trail With Genghis Khan" so that I can have a good picture of the countryside as I read the books and "The Secret History of the Mongols". The History Channel web site also lead me to any number of videos that had some very helpful historical information. You can also check on line and see the type of housing and clothing that the Mongols used.These are very fast moving, exciting novels if you are interested in this time in history. This man was an unbelievable hero and villian, larger than life and if you want to know something about him, this is a great place to start.

The first book in the Ghengis Khan series is beyond a doubt one of my favorite military history books I've read thus far. I have already read all five books in the series three times over. I ordered this book for a friend to read and he is currently starting the third book himself. Whoever like's an accurate accounting of a enigmatic leader such as Ghengis Khan this is the book for you. Conn Iggulden brings to life Ghengis in all of his glory. The way he came to power and how he was able to unite the Mongol tribes is an amazing story. I don't want to give up to much of the plot of the book, but I will say that once you start reading the book you will not be able to put it down and you will want to immediately go out and get the other books as well. Highly recommend all five books.

Great book

Son loves this book.

The book is Simply Awesome ,the Story is Magnificient .The book neatly describes how Genghis khan suffered during childhood ,took Revenge against tartars who killed his Father and eventually how he united all Mongol tribes to build a Powerful Empire ,unheard in History so far .Through this book One can understand How Genghis khan Really was the Greatest King in History of World.Infact all 4 books are Superb and astonishing .I would Recommend reading all 4 of them .Just an Inspiring Journey 😃

brilliant read!

excellent