Understanding Islam by Thomas W. Lippman; Unabridged MP3 Audio Book; Narrator Wanda McCaddon

Since the Gulf War, many have asked the question, "Why do Middle Easterners think and act as they do?" Of the 900 million people who today follow the Islamic faith, all are profoundly affected by the teachings of Muhammad and by Muslim traditions that have developed over the past thirteen hundred years.

This comprehensive guide offers an informative and insightful introduction to Islam, both as a religion and as a political-economic force. It tells the story of Muhammad and the rise of Islam; outlines the sacred book, the Koran; explains "the five pillars of the faith"; explores the interplay between religion and government; describes the differences that divide Islam; and above all, shows the influence of Islam on world affairs.

“An excellent overview of the world’s youngest major religion.” —Los Angeles Times

“His handling of modern issues is clear and thought-provoking, providing both new information and new insights.” —Middle East Journal

“Especially illuminating on the close relationship of religion and what the West would consider secular politics in the Muslim world.” —Library Journal

“An accessible introduction to Islam for readers of all levels.” —Large Print Reviews

“Understanding Islam is an example of a book more likely to be listened to than read…[Wanda McCaddon’s] reading is fast and clear.” —Wilson Library Bulletin

“[Wanda McCaddon's] captivating English voice melds with the narrative, providing a dramatic and intriguing glimpse into one of the world’s ‘newer’ religions.” —Large Print Reviews

Thomas W. Lippman served in Cairo as Washington Post bureau chief for the Middle East for over three years, gaining sharp insight into the complex realities of that turbulent region. He has also been a correspondent in Indochina and has traveled throughout the Islamic world. He currently reports on both national and international energy issues for the Washington Post, and he is the author of Egypt after Nasser.

Wanda McCaddon began recording books for the fledgling audiobook industry in the early 1980s and has since narrated well over six hundred titles for major audio publishers, as well as abridging, narrating, and coproducing classic titles for her own company, Big Ben. Audiobook listeners may be familiar with her voice under one of her two "nom de mikes," Donada Peters and Nadia May. The recipient of an Audie nomination and twenty-five Earphones Awards, AudioFile magazine has named her one of recording's Golden Voices. Wanda also appears regularly on the professional stage in the San Francisco Bay Area.