November-December 2025
The Foreign Service Journal covers foreign affairs from an insider’s perspective, providing thought-provoking articles on international issues, the practice of diplomacy, and the U.S. Foreign Service. Including the AFSA News section, The Journal is now published bimonthly by the American Foreign Service Association.
The November-December issue focuses on Foreign Service authors.
We always welcome short, focused letters about FSJ content; please send them to journal@afsa.org.
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COVER STORY
FOCUS ON FOREIGN SERVICE AUTHORS
In Their Own Write
We are pleased to present this year’s collection of new books by members of the Foreign Service community.
Of Related Interest
Other recent books of interest to the foreign affairs community.
In Their Own Words: FS Family Members on Writing
Four writers who are FS family members talk about their paths to publication.
FEATURES
Iran’s Revolution and Foreign Service Heroes: A Review Essay
A new book on U.S.-Iran relations and the Iranian Revolution spotlights the outstanding work of career diplomats.
Scooter Wisdom: Life Lessons from the Streets of Saigon
For this author, commuting via scooter offered valuable lessons in how to survive—and thrive—in a complicated world.
FS HERITAGE
The Life and Tragic Fate of a Young U.S. Consul
Felix H. Suau, the U.S. consul in Guadeloupe, was only 27 and had served for just three years when he perished in the earthquake of 1843.
EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT
Returning to U.S. Schools: A Guide to Transcripts and Smooth Transitions
Here’s what’s involved in aligning international school transcripts with the requirements of a U.S. public school.