Shade of Swords

M J Akbar is an Indian Muslim and journalist, best-selling author, the founder and editor-in-chief of the Asian Age newspaper and former government advisor and official spokesman to Rajiv Ghandi. He is a respected expert on Indian and Middle Eastern politics.

'A perceptive account of Islamic history that gives proper weight to south Asia. What can appear to outsiders as inexplicable becomes more understandable when rulers are seen as grappling with immense demographic and class changes.' - Martin Wollacott, The Guardian'An excellent new book by the distinguished Indian journalist M.J. Akbar traces the centuries-long history of the conflict between Islam and Christianity, inflamed today by the world dominance of the US.' - Alexander Chancellor, The Guardian'Wide-ranging and very readable account of the varied interpretations of the concept through history.' - The Statesman'A whirlwind tour of Islamic history ... reminds us that although Islamism per se, and with it jihad, periodically falls into abeyance, it never vanishes for good.' - Justin Wintle, Sunday Times'A must read for any right-minded Indian who wishes to understand the dynamics of the continent and must therefore understand the intricacies of Islam.' - Suhel Seth, Indian Express'The Shade of Swords is a book of learning and a book of revelations.' - Goolam E Vahanvati, Asian Age'Akbar makes some telling points ... [a]nd it's hard to argue with his conclusion: "Defeat is only a setback in the holy war. The jihad goes on."' - Washington Post'Provocative, idiosyncratic, polemical and wide-ranging, M.J Akbar's writing reflects his depth of experience and his passion for his subject. It is perhaps his most timely book yet.' - William Dalrymple'... an engrossing account of the historic conflict between the world's two major faiths.' - Mohammed Khan'Best at evoking sympathetically the religious emotion that drives holy wars ... His book is a succession of vivid accounts of Muslims who fought Christians, Hindus and Jews. A wide, entrancing stretch of history [that] has a taste for flamboyant characters and lively anecdotes.' - Radhakrishnan Nayar, THESFor anyone interested in the tensions between Islam and Christianity - and that should be everyone - this is the right book at the right time by the right author. In his superb treatment of one of the most important and vexing issues in the world today, M. J. Akbar combines deep knowledge of both history and current events with clear thinking and clear writing. - Strobe TalbottShade of Swords should be studied by everyone interested in minimizing religious conflict across the planet in the new century. - David Kilgour, Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific), Canada'The book is remarkable for the candour and acuity with which the whole question of Islamic fundamentalism and related issues are dealt with - given post September 11 developments it is also very topical.' - Journal of the Commonwealth Lawyer's Association' ... this Indian journalist has a firm grasp of developments and is an accurate commentator.' - Reviews in Religion & Theology, Vol 11, issue 3, 2004' ... the earlier sections are entertaining and well worth perusing.' - The Houston Chronicle'A glossary, chronology, reading list, and table of biographical sketches add to the book's usefulness.' - Library Journal Reviews'The Shade of Swords is the most honest and candid survey produced in print about the roots of rage in Islam and Christianity.' - www.atimes.com'In the crowded category of works on the historical forces behind September 11, Osama bin Laden and al Qaeda, this book stands out ... Akbar writes well, tu

• 1. Chapter and Verse  2. A Bargain with Allah  3. Rebellions in the Dark of Night  4. A Map of Islam  5. Circle of Hell  6. Allah! Muhammad! Saladin!  7. The Doors of Europe  8. A Tale of Two Temples  9. A Dream, Trapped  10. The Bargain Goes Sour  11. Ahmad, Ali and Azad: Across Roads  12. The Bengali Babu: History as Anger  13. The Yogi and the Caliph  14. The Dhoti and the Crescent