"The Complete Idiot's Guide to Understanding Saudi Arabia" by Colin Wells provides readers with a comprehensive overview of Saudi Arabia's rich history, intriguing culture, and complex political landscape. The book is specifically designed to bridge the gap in knowledge and understanding between the Western world and Saudi Arabia, offering a balanced and informative account of the country.
One of the book's major strengths is Wells' ability to present complex information in an accessible and digestible manner. Rather than overwhelming readers with excessive detail, he breaks down key concepts and historical events, making it easy for anyone to grasp the core aspects of Saudi Arabia's past and present. Furthermore, Wells enhances his analysis by incorporating personal anecdotes and interviews, offering readers a more intimate and insightful perspective.
Religion plays a vital role in Saudi Arabian society, and Wells sheds light on its significance and the influence of Islam on the country's political and social fabric. He explores the impact of the Wahhabi sect on Saudi Arabian identity and elucidates the intricate relationship between the monarchy and religious leaders. Wells also delves into the challenges and tensions that arise from modernization efforts in a deeply religious society.
Available on Audible
Additionally, the book dives into the Saudi Arabian economy, highlighting the country's heavy reliance on oil and the subsequent implications for other sectors, including education and healthcare. Wells also discusses the impact of globalization and the Saudi government's efforts to diversify the economy, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the country's economic landscape.
In summary, "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Understanding Saudi Arabia" is an invaluable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of this fascinating country. Wells' well-researched and balanced approach offers readers a comprehensive overview of Saudi Arabia's history, culture, and current affairs. Whether you are a student, traveler, or simply curious about Saudi Arabia, this book serves as an excellent starting point.
What are readers saying?
"The Complete Idiot's Guide to Understanding Saudi Arabia" written by Colin Wells has received a mix of reviews. Some readers found the book informative and well-written, while others felt it lacked depth and failed to capture the intricacies of Saudi Arabian culture and society.
Many reviewers appreciated the book's comprehensive overview of Saudi Arabia's history, politics, and economy. They commended Wells for providing valuable insights into the country's government structure, oil industry, and international influence. These readers found the book to be a useful introduction to Saudi Arabia for those with little knowledge of the country.
However, there were a number of readers who expressed disappointment with the book's lack of depth. They felt that it only scratched the surface and did not delve into the complexities of Saudi Arabian society. Some reviewers thought that the book relied too heavily on stereotypes and generalizations, which compromised its credibility and insightful nature.
Additionally, some readers found the writing style to be dry and repetitive. They believed that the book lacked engaging storytelling and failed to hold their attention. However, others appreciated Wells' straightforward and accessible language, which made the complex subject matter more understandable.
Furthermore, there were criticisms regarding the book's inadequate coverage of certain topics. Reviewers felt that important issues such as women's rights, religious extremism, and Saudi Arabia's international relationships either went unaddressed or were not explored in sufficient depth. This left them with an incomplete understanding of the country.
SaudiArabia101 MiddleEastExploration CulturalUnderstanding