A Journey Through Islamic History

In terms of size, paper quality and number of illustrations, this book impressively qualifies as a coffee table attraction. In fact, one is tempted to look at the many instructive maps and pictures while postponing reading. However, the volume is more than visual delight, given the qualifications of its two authors: A lady from Jeddah, Yasminah Hashim (21), who had started research for this book at the age of 17, and Muhammad Abdul Jabbar Beg, formerly teaching at the University of Malaysia. The book is introduced by the Iraqi professor (emeritus) of mechanical engineering, Salim al-Hassani, author of 1001 Inventions: Muslim Heritage in our World.

The volume summarizes eight periods of Muslim history, from the birth of Muhammad (peace be upon him) in 570 CE to the most recent democratic protests in the Arab world, overthrowing authoritarian regimes in Tunisia, Egypt and Libya. Throughout, pages on historical developments alternate with pages devoted to important Muslim personalities like Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, Harun al-Rashid, Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi, Ibn Khaldun and Sinan.