'This textbook provides a clearly written, concise introduction to the modern Middle East. Short, easy-to-digest pieces are augmented by textbooks and maps, exploring all aspects of the region from politics and government, to history, geography, and various cultural perspectives. While perhaps too advanced for some high school students, this book would find a home in Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate classes or libraries meant to support them, and is also suitable for many university level survey courses on the Middle East.' – Middle East Outreach Council, Honorable Mention, Fall 2009