An Englishman in Riyadh

This book is a promise I had made over 20 years ago to my school teacher, that when I am old enough I will get his life story printed so others can enjoy the journey in time as much as I did at school. The name of this teacher who later became my friend was David Urch, the first Englishman who went to Saudi Arabia to teach English, the first man to establish an English speaking Radio station in Riyadh. A man who taught Princes many of whom are now reaching their twilight, he was involved in the Ministry of Education. A man who is a master storyteller with a commanding voice and without a doubt from a different era. The book gives an insight to the nephew who shot his uncle King Faisal, perhaps one of the best of men to rule in the Kingdom and region.

Unlike many books out there if your looking for dirt or gossip on Arabia you wont find any in this book. David is not the type to write such rubbish and nor would I allow it. But this is a book, witty, funny and an eye opener. Its Indiana Jones with a suit. An English Adventure. This does not mean that you say boring, believe me it is not, its different, a living history from the eyes of an outsider. Opening the pages is for you to loose your self in a time when Arabs were still the breed that had honour, pride and integrity. When an Arab was hospitable because it was his pleasure and the reward was from God, where sincerity followed an action. The experience David witnessed when his mother was ill is a reflection to that kindness. 

The Englishman in Riyadhhttp://www.alsaqibookshop.com/shopexd.asp?id=15847

If you don't know much about Saudi Arabia, and would like an introduction this would be a good start. If you are asking what is the fascination with this country, perhaps this book will capture your imagination as it did mine many moons ago. The stories David used to tell, gave me that little nudge like the Hobbit to go out of the shire and see the world, first destination was the desert Kingdom. I hope you as the reader, gets an opportunity to read this book, be inspired, giggle a little and who knows look at Saudi Arabia in a different light. 

When David wanted this book first published one publisher said it was too pro-arab, and another said anti! In another instance, he was told it needs to be more favourable for Israel, so go figure. So when I had the chance to make it happen, I did not hesitate, the book is now in written form for you to read. Something that was a  privilege for me to have accomplished.  

David was there for me when I really did not want to pursue higher education, he became a friend over the years and would always remind the rights and wrongs of life. Supported me when I was a political candidate, had the biggest smile when I told him I completed my first oil deal. He was in essence a unique man, hardcore Catholic, who always reminded me that a little prayer to God was good for the soul. He was a man I would meet regularly for lunch just to have a chat. 

This book is part of his life which I hope you will read and meet the man in his thoughts through his adventure.

Sadly last year 2011, in the month of August he passed away, leaving this legacy. All the profit from this book go towards a scholarship fund. So if you do purchase it your unwittingly doing something really good, and if you read it and get to travel in time and see an entire country and its people in a different light than we have achieved something even better. 

In memory of my friend, teacher and a unique person of who's kind are rare to find. David Urch

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