What sets this text apart from many others is its focus on the socioeconomic; political; and cultural milieu in which a new religious movement was born and has thrived; its discussion of the origins of Islamic law; spirituality and theology; mysticism; philosophy; and culture; and an appendix of individual page-length biographies of important figures. Also included is a helpful glossary of terms; a 'photo essay;' selections from primary sources; and an annotated bibliography. . . . Gordon's discussion of the sociocultural origins and authority of the Qur'an is very good. He also highlights an area of Islamic studies often ignored in general introduction; the role of urbanization in the development of Islamic civilization worldwide. . . . [T]his is a very useful and informative general introduction. --The Historian
#2189823 in Books Atlantic Monthly Press 2005-08-04Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 1.36 x 6.34 x 9.36l; #File Name: 0871138999560 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Better than I expectedBy TomThere are about 45 short stories in chronological order; startling the 1300's and ending in the 1920's. Each is pretty short; no more than 20 pages; and very well written - you can dip in to the book for a story and then put it away for a while if you choose. Many of the explorations I had heard of; but even more I hadn't (and I've read quite a bit in this area) so it was fun to learn about various journey's that were just as harrowing as Scott's trip to the South Pole; for instance; but got almost no press coverage at the time so have faded in to history - at least until now. My only knock - there is a pretty high percentage of stories focused on Polar exploration. There were lots of expeditions in those areas; but other parts of the globe get a bit shorted - there are only 2 on mountaineering; for instance. This is a minor point though - if you enjoy exploration literature you should have this one.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Great DiscoveryBy Frederick McDermottGreat; short; efficient essays on a discovery starting with the earliest explorers(Marco Polo) up to Mallory on Everest. You know some of these guys but not all; and not in Fleming's way. Great place to start on any particular explorer.5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Outstanding tales of ExplorationBy Robert R. BriggsIf you love reading about exploration and adventure; this is the book for you! Fergus Fleming is one of the best story tellers when it comes to relating tales of man's greatest efforts in the world of exploration. This is an easy read; covering many different stories from Marco Polo to Ernest Shackleton. Virtually all parts of the world are covered from the Arctic to the Antarctic; from the Jungles to the Deserts. Each story is unique and written in a style that will capture you and put you right along side the explorer. The accounts are short but quite inclusive of the important points. If anything; they will peak your interest to read a more detailed account of those stories the reader finds particularly interesting. Truly; a great book and one of Fleming's best!
