Most historians strive, once in their lives at least, to produce a 'grand narrative' that, even if for a limited area of inquiry, brings it all together once and for all.To accomplish such a feat requires a thorough knowledge of a field (more than one for 'grand, grand narratives'), the required linguistic competences if an author is working in an area where the primary sources are not in English, and a clear delineation of the goals and scope of the planned project.This includes, for books such as that of Frederich Starr, a clear chronological and geographical delineation.For this reviewer also important is that a 'grand narrative' provide a useful overview and that this should include good notes and a strong bibliography.Also requisite of a narrative of this sort is an engaging style, an ability to connect with readers and interest them in a grand endeavor which can cover impressive ground but must do so without either the author or the reader becoming lost.Writing a book like this is never easy and bringing it off is even harder.But it can be done.A recent example of what can and should be accomplished is Lincoln Paine's The Sea and Civilization: A Maritime History of the World [2013].The author's grasp of his topic and ability to deliver the goods in terms of a lucid and well written account is simply amazing.Alas, Frederick Starr is no Lincoln Paine although Starr's book is well written and entertaining.The book has so many problems that it is difficult to know where to start.Starr's first and perhaps biggest problem is that his 'Central Asia' simply does not exist.Not only does he talk more often about events in what is clearly and unmistakably Iran, he has little interest in, or understanding of, anything north of Samarqand, much less the Kipjaq steppe or eastern Turkistan or Mongolia.His 'Central Asia' does not even accord with
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