Acknowledgments
The idea of writing a world history of the ten lost tribes was born
during two conversations I had in the summer of 2004 , one with
Avner Ben-Zaken and another with David Myers. I thank them both.
Eugene Sheppard, Center for Exilic Studies, always thought it was a
good idea to write about exile. I thank him for his encouragement.
I have never met Professor Tudor Parfitt, but his scholarship on
the ten tribes convinced me that a history of things lost is not
only possible, but is also an exciting adventure. I received further
encouragement from Jerry Bentley, who was patient enough to
spend time with me when I simply seized him during the annual
meeting of the American Historical Association in January 2005.
His work in the field of world history has always been a source
of inspiration for me. At New York University, I have benefited
immensely from the friendship of Joanna Waley-Cohen. A senior
colleague in my own core field of Qing China, Joanna patiently
listened to my never-ending monologues about the ten tribes and
was a friend in many other ways besides. Many conversations with
Luke Fleming helped me to think more clearly about some of the
issues. My friend Jay Furman’s sustained interest in the book for
two whole years was a special source of encouragement. I thank
all of them for their enthusiasm.
Writing a world history takes the author in many directions
where, in my case, I found helpful and friendly colleagues. I was
lucky to have the occasional ear of and receive tips from (among