'Harriet Allsopp brings her close knowledge and meticulous research on Kurdish politics in Syria to bear on the unfolding current situation of momentous transformations in the Kurdish region and the wider Middle East. Sami Zubaida, Emeritus Professor, Birkbeck, University of London 'Harriet Allsopp presents a lucid, engaging and detailed description and analysis of a people and region that remains terra incognita for observers of Middle East politics, yet has become one of the most transformative forces in the cauldron of civil war Syria... Allsopp's book stands out as a resource of unparalleled importance for those wanting to understand where the Kurds came from, and where, perhaps, they may be going.' Gareth Stansfield, Professor, University of Exeter 'This is a highly compelling book - a joy to read.' Jordi Tejel, Professor, The Graduate Institute of Geneva