The need to understand Islam and Muslims has never been greater; both because of conflicts that dominate the news and because of the increasing presence of Muslims in Western societies. There are hundreds of books that introduce the Western reader to Islam; and dozens of books that explore various Muslim societies (usually Arab ones). Islam Muslims is the first to bring together both; explaining Islam in theory and in practice across the diverse Muslim world. Readers learn not just what Islam says about everything from the nature of God to marriage to prayer to politics; but also how individual Muslims (traditional or modern; devout or barely observant) apply teachings in everyday life.
#542931 in Books 2009-05-01 2009-05-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.10 x .70 x 6.00l; 1.23 #File Name: 1920143610308 pages
Review
9 of 9 people found the following review helpful. One word - Detail!By One of Marius' MulesThis is without question the most thoroughly researched historical work available on "everything" related to Fire Force operations in the Rhodesian War. Although this is your typical 9 x 6 hardcover; it has a very Osprey "feel" to it. By that; I mean the author included several color plates and several sections of quality photos that make the book seem more like something Osprey would publish. That doesn't mean; however; that the written sections are given short shrift. On the contrary; so much detail is presented here that the casual reader may become bogged down. I don't want to give the impression that this is an encyclopedic reference; but I do wish to convey that it is wonderful in its detail of minutiae. Included here is a plethora of maps; bw photos; colour photos; prints; graphs; a glossary; an index; and even an accompanying documentary DVD. It's likely that Fire Force operations comprised the majority of lethal contacts with terrorists operating in and around Rhodesia during the war. Wood's "Counterstrike" is easily one of the best historical sources available on the Rhodesian War. So if you're a serious student of this conflict; this is a "must read."0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A good discussion of Fireforce OpsBy Mike V.Counterstrike From The Sky is JRT Wood's attempt to put to paper a comprehensive look at the the Fireforce concept of total envelopment of a terrorist/insurgent force within the Rhodesian conflict. Particulars cover the evolution; equipment; and doctrine of a Fireforce; as well as an in-depth look at Operation Dingo - the strikes against the ZANLA camps at Chimoio and Tembue.The book is; naturally; covers a very specific and narrow subject area and readers have to be interested in the subject to stick with this book. Furthermore; by virtue of their connection to the tactic; the Rhodesian Light Infantry receives a lot of coverage in the book at the expense of discussion of the RAR and RSAS who also used the tactic. That said - for those who are interested in it; this book makes good coverage of the topic; though for some it may not be in-depth enough in certain areas. The doctrine section (covered under the chapter on Fireforce commanders) is a very good read in particular. Those interested in learning the nitty-gritty of Operation Dingo will also find the second half of the book of particular interest.On the other hand; some will find the book a bit dry to read as it is written primarily for an academic/military audience. The examination of Operation Dingo is particularly plodding; but extremely useful in that it covers the movements of nearly every unit involved in the operation. Most will find themselves constantly flipping back and forth between the map section and the text when reading this portion; though the pictures and maps are of good quality and highly useful as an supplement to the text. My only other qualm is that a theoretical exercise in if/how the concept could be used in a modern counter-insurgency effort would have been a nice addition.If you are interested in the concept of Fireforce or Operation Dingo (though Dr. Wood has a separate book coming out on the operation later in 2011) this book will be an informative read so long as you have the patience and mindset to read an academically oriented book.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Counter Strike from the SkyBy D. AustinBrilliantly documented and events stunningly detailed retold. I was enthralled with reading this volume from start to finish. The author has incredibly well researched the history of Fireforce operations; and this is the evidence. A must-read for anyone interested in the history of Rhodesia / Zimbabwe and its current position within Africa; modern warfare; and / or counter-insurgency operational planning; behaviour; tactics and results. Five Stars!
