Islam: A Short History

Thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a nice tie into my summer 'trilogy'...The History of Iran (mega book, begins at 600 B.C.), and All the Shah's Men. These three together made for a nice primer on an area of the world I want to know more about. So glad I read all three. The Persian culture is made of a beautiful, passionate people with an amazing, long history. Shame on so many cultures who took advantage of this agrarian society for way too many decades/centuries!

Beautiful book. Gives you a brief description of the last 1400 years. As if someone is looking from above and watching these human movements, describing the rise and fall of different empires in a wonderful way. Thanks Karen Armstrong

The book covered a long period of Islamic history from the time or prophet Muhammad to present day Islam and it covered quite a few difficult topics and overall a well-researched book. While reading the book I would Google and research on each topic which was mentioned in the book and every topic is like an ocean with tremendous depth and bringing it all in a single book is commendable. Pronunciation of Arabic and Muslim names in narration is how a westerner will pronounce but not entirely correct. Overall good narration with a strong voice.

As a Muslim, I thought it might be interesting to listen to a historical book about my religion. However, the book was pretty boring. Lacking many specific details, it didn't hold my attention past a couple of hours. It's written in a high academic tone so you better be able to understand uncommonly used words. The narration's voice is fine but some things are pronounced with incorrect emphasis on the wrong letters. I had to wonder at times what he was saying in a word.