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Balcony over Jerusalem

A Middle East Memoir: Israel, Palestine and Beyond

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Balcony over Jerusalem

By: John Lyons
Narrated by: Peter Houghton
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About this listen

An intimate account of the Israel-Palestine conflict and beyond, from one of Australia's most experienced foreign correspondents.

Now updated with a foreword by Stan Grant and a new author's note.

'Lyons knows if you stand with the suffering, you're closer to the truth' Stan Grant, award-winning journalist and bestselling author

'A penetrating analysis of power with empathy for the human story' Sarah Ferguson, presenter of 7.30

Leading Australian journalist John Lyons takes readers on a fascinating personal journey through the wonders and dangers of the Middle East. In this updated edition, Lyons draws from his years living in Jerusalem to give context to the devastating war between Israel and Palestinians in Gaza and gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the Israeli occupation of the West Bank.

Having reported on the Middle East for three decades, Lyons has interviewed everyone from senior Israeli military and intelligence figures to key leaders from Hezbollah and Hamas. He's witnessed the brutal Iranian Revolutionary Guard up close, was kidnapped by Egyptian soldiers, and was one of the last foreign journalists in Iran during the violent crackdown on the 'Green Revolution'. He's confronted Hamas officials about why they fire rockets into Israel and Israeli soldiers about why they fire tear gas at Palestinian schoolchildren.

Beyond the politics and headlines, Lyons explains the Middle East through everyday life and experiences: his son's school, the markets, and the conversations with friends on their balcony overlooking it all. Through Lyons' incisive reporting, you will develop an empathetic understanding of what brought us to this tragic impasse—and where it's headed next.

©2017 John Lyons (P)2024 HarperCollins Publishers Art & Literature Israel & Palestine Journalists, Editors & Publishers Middle East Politics & Government World Iran War Africa
All stars
Most relevant
That was a tough and necessary listen. Whatever your view of the middle eastern and Gaza conflicts, this is a compelling take on the situation. One that everyone needs to process. Thank you to John Lyons and all the contributors.

Stunning and confronting.

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Providing some political backgrounds in that region. The author lived in Jerusalem for years as a journalist, most observations are rather objective and insightful. Also the book is quite well structured and written, able to encapsulate the interest to read on.

Providing some political backgrounds in that region.

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A great insight into how much power Israel has over our media. It’s disturbing and hopefully the right people read this and make a difference in stopping this from happening. You can see the double standards whilst watching mainstream media and it’s disgusting. Let’s hope Palestine will be free soon and the occupation ends. It’s the only way forward. I really enjoyed John’s insight into his life there for 6years. So glad he stood his ground and was able to get the truth published. We’re sick of the silence.

The power Israel has over the Aussie media

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This is such a compelling accounting of the Israel-Palestine tragedy. John Lyons has written in a fact based, analytical and fairly non judgmental fashion of his experiences and time in the Middle East. It should be compulsory reading.

What an eye opener

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Fantastic detail and views from both sides and things public is unaware and great historical references

Amazing information thank you

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Enlightening and horrifying expose on Israel’s treatment of Palestinians, Bedouins, Lebanese- anyone not an Israeli Jew. The stories are heart-breaking. What is even more heartbreaking? Is it? A people who lives through the holocaust could turn around and do the such horrific things to other people.
Things have only deteriorated since this book was written. This should be compulsory reading for anyone who thinks the world began on 7 October.

A truth hidden by Israel

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Changes your mind about all you here on legacy media on this issues. Everyone should read this account of what’s really going on in the Middle East

Illuminating

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I thought this was very well written and well researched - a great read for problem that want to understand Israel, its society and of course the ongoing conflict surrounding the occupation of Palestinian people and lands. While written before October 7 it’s very relevant to what is happening today.

Very well read and timely overview of the state of Israel.

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The author tells such an incredible story of his six years living in Israel covering the Middle East. He does this while weaving in historical context and broader understanding. Excellent book.

So Compelling.. what a job!

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Balcony Over Jerusalem is a deeply moving and illuminating memoir that offers a rare and richly textured window into life in Israel and the Palestinian territories. As a seasoned foreign correspondent for the Australian press, John Lyons brings decades of journalistic integrity, personal insight, and human empathy to this gripping account of his years based in one of the most politically and emotionally charged regions of the world.
What sets the audiobook apart is that it's narrated by Lyons himself, lending an intimate and authentic tone that only someone who lived these experiences could deliver. His calm, thoughtful narration carries the weight of the stories without ever becoming melodramatic. He reads with clarity and conviction, allowing the listener to feel both the beauty and the heartbreak of the people he met and the events he covered.
Lyons excels at weaving together the personal and the political—his experiences raising a son in Jerusalem with his wife, Sylvie, are told alongside harrowing accounts of censorship, intimidation, and violence. His honest reflections on the difficulties of reporting fairly in such a polarized environment are especially compelling and important. Whether discussing the wall in the West Bank, life under occupation, or the pressures placed on journalists, Lyons remains measured, compassionate, and courageous.
The audiobook is more than a memoir—it's a vital piece of reportage and a passionate call for understanding. Lyons’ voice—both literally and figuratively—guides listeners through a region where complexity reigns, reminding us of the human lives behind the headlines.
Highly recommended for anyone interested in Middle Eastern affairs, journalism, or simply powerful storytelling.

Moving and Illuminating.

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