Ruler of the Sky: A Novel of Genghis Khan

Pamela Sargent is generally thought of as a science fiction writer but she has actually written for several genres. One wonders why she chose Ghengis Khan as a subject but regardless of the reasons, I am glad she undertook this thankless task. Most Americans are unfamiliar with the great conqueror or are unaware that his empire was the largest empire in the history of the world. The remarkable thing is that Temujin, his real name, was born in the desert of Mongolia without privelege. Over the years he transformed Mongol riders into killing machines and began an exapansion that for a time threatened to engulf the entire European-Asian landmass. It is hard to generate empathy not to mention sympathy for such a character but he was a reflection of his times - ruthless, loyal, brave, resourceful. The novel begins when he is a child and follows his rise through the ranks by crafty politics, deal-making and fighting skill. The story captures the mood, the scenery, the pulse of life within the inner circle of the leader. The battles are detailed as are the geopolitical discussions. The action is in turns exciting, tender and mesmerizing. When he died his empire was divided among his sons and eventually fell apart. Today, less than 3 million Mongols eke out a subsistence living in the middle of Asia.