Main content
Sorry, this episode is not currently available

Europe's protracted decisions on the Middle East's future frustrate Gertrude. Read by Sylvestra le Touzel and Deborah Findlay.

The story of Gertrude Bell and her crucial role in the foundation of the state of Iraq.

In 1919 and into 1920, Gertrude became increasingly frustrated by the protracted and ill-informed decisions being taken in Europe about the future of the Middle East.

First published in 2006, Queen of the Desert by Georgina Howell has been reissued - partly to coincide with the Werner Herzog film of the same title, but also to provide the long view on the troubled history of a remarkable country.

Using letters written by Gertrude Bell throughout the period, the book tells the story of an extraordinarily talented and determined woman who has often been overshadowed by her more famous friend, T.E. Lawrence.

Read by Sylvestra le Touzel and Deborah Findlay (the letters)

Abridged and produced by Jill Waters
A Waters Company production for 大象传媒 Radio 4.

15 minutes

Credits

Role Contributor
Reader Sylvestra Le Touzel
Reader Deborah Findlay
Author Georgina Howell
Abridger Jill Waters
Producer Jill Waters

Broadcasts

  • Thu 2 Jul 2015 09:45
  • Fri 3 Jul 2015 00:30
  • Thu 19 Jul 2018 14:45
  • Fri 20 Jul 2018 02:45

Listen to more Audio Books

Listen to more Audio Books

Including My Sister The Serial Killer, Queenie, The Flatshare and more.

Opening Lines

Opening Lines

John Yorke unpacks the themes behind the stories in Radio 4's weekend afternoon dramas.

Sample our books and authors Clip Collection

Interviews, previews and reviews

Subscribe to the Short stories podcast

Featuring the best stories from the UK's finest writers

How many of these 100 Novels have you read?

How many of these 100 Novels have you read?

After a passionate debate, our panel has come up with this surprising literary selection.

Finding Your Story

Finding Your Story

Ten remarkable novels about identity: Which one will help you discover yourself?

大象传媒 Arts: Books

Celebrating reading and the 100 novels that have shaped our world.