Monday, October 20, 2008

Gen. David H. Petraeus is said to be reading books and consulting authors as he plans strategy for Afghanistan ["Petraeus Mounts Strategy Review," news story, Oct. 16].

I suggest "Three Cups of Tea" by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin. Mr. Mortenson almost died in an attempt to climb K2 mountain. He pledged to return to build a school for the Pakistani villagers who saved his life. When he finished that project, he responded to other requests by village elders in the mountains of Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The book illustrates the wisdom of winning hearts and minds.

SALLY KELLY

Chevy Chase