In this gripping narrative history, Lesley Hazleton tells the tragic story at the heart of the ongoing rivalry between the Sunni and Shia branches of Islam, a rift that dominates the news now more than ever.

Even as Muhammad lay dying, the battle over who would take control of the new Islamic nation had begun, beginning a succession crisis marked by power grabs, assassination, political intrigue, and passionate faith. Soon Islam was embroiled in civil war, pitting its founder's controversial wife Aisha against his son-in-law Ali, and shattering Muhammad’s ideal of unity.

• Language ‏ : English
• ISBN: 978-0385523943
• Author: Lesley Hazleton
• Page Quality:  Printed on 80 GSM Premium Quality Paper
• Page Color: Creamy Color Pages for Easy Reading
• Book Cover: Paperback
• Genres: Religion
• Publisher :‎ Anchor
• NB: Cover may change due to edition