16 of 17 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Best Concise History & Beliefs of Shi'e, October 4, 2001
By A Customer
This is a book that I recommend to everyone who is interested in understanding the history of Shi'e split from Sunni faction(s) in Islam. The book, however, goes much beyond that, and provides insight to developments of Islam at Mohammed's time, and immediately after his death, as well as a detailed follow on to present day. It is written with a style that keeps the reader glued to the book, unlike most books in similar subjects.
There are two points that I have minor criticism: the book contains numerous Arabic (and Farsi) names, perhaps too many names are given in the book. This practice, even though it provides credibility for the content, makes the reading of the book difficult for even those who can read Farsi and Arabic.
The second point is this: a few of dates provided in the text (such as birth, death, start or completion of events, etc.) appear inaccurate, even if one accepts the information detailed on the same page where the dates are recorded.
All in all, an excellent book for both the novice, as well as informed individuals. This book can also be used as a reference source; it has nearly 100 pages of bibliography, index, etc.
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14 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
The most comprehensive book available about Shia Islam, May 2, 1999
By A Customer
I have read many books about the religious development and history of Shia Islam and have to say without any hesitation that this is the most detailed and objective book I have ever read on the subject. The author, Mr. Momen, has done a thorough job of accurately presenting its early history as well as it development up to present time. Very scholarly, with many footnotes and cross references. Based upon the information that I was already familar with, I recommend this book to anyone interested in gaining unbiasd information about the subject.
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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
One of the best books I've ever read on Shia Islam, January 3, 2007
I would recommend this book to anyone, but especially to Shia parents wishing to explain Shia Islam to their children. The book is easy enough for a high-schooler and up to read. As someone who grew up in a relatively small Shia community in the United States, this book was especially helpful in educating me over the years. Recently, many of my friends (who are of the college and professional school age) and who have not necessarily grown up in a household that stresses Shia Islam but who want to learn more about the area, have also turned to this book for understanding.
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