Readers > Everybody Reads > 2006 > Further reading > Afghanistan
Afghanistan
Taliban: Militant Islam, Oil and Fundamentalism in Central Asia by Ahmed Rashid-
A fascinating analysis of the growth of the Taliban.
The Man Who Would Be King: The First American in Afghanistan by Ben Macintyre-
The story of Josiah Harlan, an adventure-loving Pennsylvania Quaker who embarked on a 20-year journey through Central Asia, culminating with his arrival in Afghanistan in 1838, where he briefly was crowned king.
Reaping the Whirlwind: The Taliban Movement in Afghanistan by Michael Griffin-
A compelling and detailed examination of how this secretive and obscure sectarian organization was able to rise to power within such a short period of time.
Islam: A Short History by Karen Armstrong-
A succinct, readable synopsis of the history of Islam that includes a timeline, maps, a list of key historical figures, a glossary of Arabic terms, a pronunciation guide, a bibliography and discussion questions.
What Everyone Needs to Know About Islam by John L. Esposito-
A question-and-answer approach to the faith, customs and political beliefs of Muslims, written by the editor of The Oxford Illustrated History of Islam.

