Novels on Terrorism

And just when you thought you had enough of it. People have tried to imagine what the lives of terrorists, secret agents who stop terrorists, and relatives of terrorists were like. Summaries of these books are available on the Net. Here are some books I'd recommend:

The Terrorist by John Updike.
Very detailed, accurate, mind-numbingly realistic portrayal of a teen who wants to be a terrorist. I found it annoying since one of the main characters was always angry, angsty, and narrow-minded, but the details make this book real and believable. Recommended for anyone who can bear angst and anger.

The Attack by Yasmina Khadra
Successful doctor's wife turns out to be the terrorist (and he didn't know). Easy to read and exciting. If you like stream of consciousness books (focus on one character's thoughts and emotions), this is yours.

Teeth of the Tiger by Tom Clancy
Pathetic but popular. Very James-Bondish. Two young twin brothers, one with brains and the other with brawn, are chosen to lead a top-secret operation against mindless terrorists. They drive across Europe is sports cars and stay in the ritziest hotels to not attract attention. If you're into pop books, this is for you. If you want a paper-weight, this is also for you.

Scorpion's Gate by Richard Clarke
The author actually worked for the CIA or something, so he knows his jargon. This focuses on what the big guys do behind the scenes. This could me made into an thriller movie with proper directing. If you're into a realistic 24-like book, this is for you.(24 is the tv series)

Runaway Horses by Yukio Mishima
Average read. Interesting story that takes place in Japan. The terrorists are samurai-like youths. It mixes in elements of fantasy that Western books desperately need. It's written by a man who comes from a samurai family so he knows his stuff. Recommended for all.

Under Western Eyes by Joseph Conrad
Difficult to read. The first book I've read with Russians being considered to be non-Europeans. Recommended only for those who love reading hard words and long sentences.

The Secret Agent by Joseph Conrad
Hard to read. A bit unrealistic but very symbolic. The terrorist didn't even know he was a terrorist. Poor Stevie. Recommended only for those who love reading hard words and long sentences.

Princess Casamassima by Henry James:
Difficult and long to read. Tragic childhood, miserable adult life, add in a snobby rich girl and you have a terrorist. Recommended only for those who love reading hard words and really long sentences.

Enemy of the World by Jack London (short story):
Makes you feel sorry for the terrorist (one smart guy). Recommended for all.

manybooks.net should have some of these books online for free. Picture from a random google search.