"[Ibrahimov] reveals a clear ability to draw forceful conclusions that are relevant to anyone with service in the US military and are incredibly useful should any responsible authority seek to apply history to their decision-making methodology."—Military Review
“Across Cultures and Empires is no ordinary autobiography: Mahir Ibrahimov brings a scholar’s eye to pivotal periods. He describes life in the Red Army and the twilight of the Soviet Union, the abortive coup against Soviet premier Mikhail Gorbachev, and then service to newly independent Azerbaijan, both at home and in opening its embassy in the United States. Adopting America as his new country, Ibrahimov came full circle, serving the US Army at home and abroad. Ibrahimov has seen and done enough for five lifetimes, a real-life Forrest Gump. Anyone who picks up Across Cultures and Empires will be hooked.”—Michael Rubin, resident scholar, American Enterprise Institute, and coeditor of Seven Pillars: What Really Causes Instability in the Middle East?
“The story of Dr. Mahir Ibrahimov is both a historic and fascinating tale, one that is very much worth reading. It offers a unique perspective on the times and how the Cold War, post–Cold War period, and the War on Terror shaped the culture, knowledge, and aspirations of one man who desired to serve and improve the circumstances around him.”—Colonel Roderick M. Cox, US Army (Ret.), president and chief executive officer, Command and General Staff College Foundation, Inc.
“Mahir Ibrahimov’s journey to America is truly unique. He had to successfully navigate many cultures, during challenging times, to reach our shores. Mahir’s book reminds Americans that people from around the world will endure hardship and pay countless dues in service to become part of our American dream. I recommend the reader join Mahir for his exciting journey and view America through his fresh eyes.”—Nate Slate, director, Fires and Air and Missile Defense Development, Dynetics, Inc
“Mahir Ibrahimov tells his story of a difficult but immensely rich and rewarding journey toward freedom—and of helping others who seek it. It is a story of becoming an American and of America’s role in the world. At a time of immense internal turmoil and self-doubt, his memoir reminds us that the United States, for all its mistakes, contradictions, and complexities, is a force for good.”—Anna Borshchevskaya, senior fellow, Washington Institute, and author of Putin’s War in Syria: Russian Foreign Policy and the Price of America’s Absence
