In a world troubled by religious strife and division, Chris Lowney's vividly written new book offers a hopeful historical reminder: Muslims, Christ...
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Nov 03, 2009
Andrew
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I thought this book gave an excellent introduction to the history of al-Andalus, a chapter of European history of which I was woefully ignorant. Western history books seem to teach that Spanish history began in 1492, but really some of its brightest moments were centuries before that and Modern Spain is only beginning to catch up. Plus, the juxtaposition of the Song of Roland and the epic of El Cid and the author's interpretation of their differences gave some food for thought. However, I fin
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Aug 31, 2010
Ruth-Ann
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I found this interesting and well-written, and it's a period of history I knew almost nothing about. It did seem, by the time I was halfway through, that the publisher's blurb overstates Lowney's thesis considerably, making the 700 years of Al-Andalus sound like seven centuries of sheer brotherly love between Muslims, Christians, and Jews. In fact, much of the book traces the political strife between Christians and Muslims. There's one, very welcome chapter where the interaction between the comm
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Nov 30, 2010
Jessica
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I read this a few years ago while traveling through Spain (Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Seville) and ended up reading each chapter slightly before visiting its respective city -- it served as a brilliant travel guide in terms of understanding the cultural history (and present) of the places I was visiting.
Overall, I found reading this to be informative, exciting and poignant.
Overall, I found reading this to be informative, exciting and poignant.
Dec 08, 2011
Bradley
rated it:
A little dry in some parts, and a little rambling in others, it ultimately gives the reader a clear window into the world of al-Andalus. It sparked my desire to study the period further.
Feb 03, 2011
We did not like this book as a group. It was a difficult read and seemed like a collection of articles rather than a book. Especially since most of the group had very little knowledge about Muslim Spain, it was not a good introduction to the topic. Most members were not able to finish the book, despite being excited to read on the subject.
(Review by Merrimack Valley Group)
(Review by Merrimack Valley Group)
Sep 10, 2011
Isidro
rated it: 
Solid book. Wonderful overview of Muslin, Jewish and Christian interactions.
May 15, 2011
Robert
rated it:
Fascinating history of an incredible period that still resonates with us today.
Oct 07, 2010
Wasabi
rated it:
A reflective look back.A useful source of inspiration for our diverse nation to use as a way to actualize compassion and understanding toward different cultures."They" are "us".
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