Almost NATO is almost a perfect introduction to the problems and prospects of NATO enlargement in Eastern Europe. The ten contributed chapters present a solid general overview of NATO's evolution toward 21st-century security and political roles in and out of Europe. The case studies approach to the military, social, ethnic, political, and economic factors associated with the pursuit of NATO membership is insightful and is assisted by this volume's reliance on a diverse set of American and European research professionals. The detail on Central and Eastern Europe is the book's objective, and it is well met. Highly recommended.

Choice Reviews

This is a thoughtful and thought-provoking symposium of general defense analysts and particular country specialists who, on balance, are critical of NATO's further enlargement into east central and southeastern Europe.

Slavic Review

Absolutely essential reading for anyone interested in European security, the security situation in ex-communist Europe, and the future of the U.S.-European security relationship. Almost NATO combines broad analytical and theoretical sweep with detailed assessments of the likely impacts of NATO expansion. The result is an important book-important because it contributes to the ongoing theoretical discussion about security; important because it updates our understanding of the security environment in Central and Eastern Europe.

Roger Kanet, University of Miami