Women in the Middle East: Tradition and Change
Grade 6 Up-A fine and timely revision of a title published in 1996. Harik and Marston have produced a remarkable look at the diversity and changes in the lives of contemporary Middle Eastern women. While marriage and family are still very important forces, the authors also discuss women's place in the arts; in public life; and as scholars, athletes, and professionals. "Middle East" is defined as the generally accepted Muslim countries as well as the Northern African countries, an area that includes nearly 300 million people. While this edition retains many of the black-and-white photographs of the original, they effectively enhance the text. Numerous additions include images from the Arab Women's Summit in 2001 and demonstrations held in conjunction with International Women's Day in 2002. A new chapter on health allows for a more complete picture of very different cultural mores and a better explanation of the seldom-understood practice of female circumcision. Another focuses on the ongoing issues concerning Afghanistan and the resulting problems of the aftermath of September 11, 2001. A colorful and inviting new dust jacket along with a well-researched and well-written text combine to make this an important purchase for general readers and student researchers alike.Jane Halsall, McHenry Public Library District, ILCopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.