Captures the traditions and diversity of Middle Eastern countries, which dominate global news and politics, and explores such themes as religion, resources, and current affairs to unravel the historical and sociological mysteries of this vast region.

Includes index.

Chapter 1: People and places -- Where in the world? -- Land and climate -- Peoples and languages -- Holy lands -- Where civilisation began -- The passing of empires -- Magic carpet rides -- Merchants and bazaars -- Resources and work -- Hopes and fears -- Summary -- Chapter 2: Modern nations -- International cooperation -- Turkey and Cyprus -- Syria -- Lebanon -- Israel -- Palestinian territories -- Egypt -- Jordan -- Saudi Arabia -- Yemen and Oman -- Gulf states -- Iraq -- Iran -- Afghanistan -- Summary-- Reference -- Glossary -- Index.