Books : The Looming Tower: Al Qaeda and the Road to 9/11 (Vintage)

Rating: - A Great way to learn about our world
This is a detailed, unbiased and readable insight into the beginings of the radical Muslim movement....If you want to be a better informed citizen, read this fine book.

---

Rating: - Compelling and Heart-stopping Account of the Rise of Al Qaeda
Lawrence Wright has written what will be arguable the best book on the subject of the Al Qaeda and their war against the West. The Looming Tower is a monumental work on a grand scale not unlike many of the epic works about World War II.

This contribution to a growing body of literature on the subject of 9/11 and the rise of Islamic extremist/terrorism is a thorough, comprehensive narrative account of one of the critical junctures of history. Wright weaves a colorful tapestry of characters, from the little known Sayyid Qutib, founder of the modern Islamic movement, circa 1940's, to Public Enemy Number One- Osama bin Laden.

Wright gives insight and background into these characters and humanizes them. We see their faults, their sophistry,their cynicysm and opportunism, but also their cunning and ruthlessness. On the American side there is the cynical Michael Scheurer (CIA), the insufferable John O'Neill--perfect charicature of an FBI/G-man, and the wily Richard Clark; bureaucractic infighters all; desparate to catch this elusive figure, this cave dweller intent on making mischief, taking innocent life.

The Looming Tower is an exhilerating, heart-stopping account of the events that led up to 9/11. After reading this book, you will have a better appreciation of what this country is facing in the War on Terror.

---

Rating: - must read for every educated american
If you are an American wondering what happened to our country and why, you must read this book. It provides an unbiased perspective on what happened and why on 9/11 and who the people behind it were. I whole heartedly recommend this book

---

Rating: - Muslims and al-Qaeda 101
The Looming Tower is a must read for anyone wanting to know why world events have brought us to today. Lawrence Wright also makes it clear how difficult it will be to negotiate any type of peace with certain Muslim sects. Very factual. Well-researched and documented.

---

Rating: - Excellent
This book, The Looming Towers, is an excellent portrayal of the genesis of the Muslim feelings of denigration and disgrace at the hands of the leaders of Western world. This book is sobering and frightening. It is well written and extremely interesting with excellent references.