Can anyone recommend a good book about the Middle east? It can be either fiction or nonfiction. We have to read it and report on it for both English and Social Studies. Thanks.

I've heard this author speak, but haven't read the book yet:

Dreams and Shadows: The Future of the Middle East, by Robin Wright

There are also novels by Joel C. Rosenberg and two other particularly good ones:

Leon Uris's book, The Haj.
http://www.amazon.com/Haj-Leon-Uris/dp/0553248642/ref=pd_bbs_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1210642790&sr=8-1

James Michener's book, The Source.
http://www.amazon.com/Source-Novel-James-Michener/dp/0375760385/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1210642886&sr=1-1

Thank you very much, Writeacher.

Ahh, you're welcome. I learn a lot from well written historical novels, and that's what Uris and Michener did so well. I'm looking forward to reading Wright's book, once I finish the book I'm currently plowing through!

=)

Certainly! Finding a good book about the Middle East can be an enriching experience for your English and Social Studies classes. To help you find the right book, you can follow these steps:

1. Consider your preferences: Think about whether you want to read fiction or nonfiction. Fictional books can bring cultural nuances to life through storytelling, while nonfiction books provide a factual understanding of historical and current events.

2. Research popular books: Look for lists of recommended Middle Eastern books, such as "Best Books about the Middle East" or "Must-Read Books on the Middle East." These lists are often published by reputable sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, or National Geographic.

3. Read reviews and synopses: Once you have gathered a list of potential books, read reviews and synopses to get an idea of what each book offers. Pay attention to the themes, writing style, and reception of the book.

4. Check the book's availability and suitability: Ensure that the book you choose is available in your local library, bookstore, or online platforms. Additionally, check if the book aligns with your school's guidelines for English and Social Studies assignments.

Now, to recommend a few books that have received critical acclaim, here are some options:

Fiction:
- "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini: This bestselling novel explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and redemption in Afghanistan.
- "The Yacoubian Building" by Alaa Al Aswany: Set in Cairo, Egypt, this book delves into the lives and struggles of diverse characters living in an apartment building.

Nonfiction:
- "A History of the Arab Peoples" by Albert Hourani: This comprehensive book provides an overview of Arab history, culture, and society.
- "From Beirut to Jerusalem" by Thomas L. Friedman: The author, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, offers an insightful firsthand account of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Remember to read reviews, summaries, and perhaps even a sample chapter to decide which book resonates most with your interests and needs. Enjoy your reading and reporting!