Ibn Saud: The Desert Warrior Who Created the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Hardcover – July 1, 2012

A great book for putting so many Middle East issues into focus, including historical perspectives that help one see the traditions of violence accompanied by a certain code of moral conduct. An added bonus was the added insight it provides to other countries like Britain, US, the Netherlands (all oil and geo-strategic related) in addition to the locals- Iraq, Iran, Turkey, but also the religious cultures of Wahhabism, Shiite, Suni. bedouin nomads, and the towards the end the emergence of Israel headlong into this mix. Women's rights issues receive less consideration - just enough to put things into perspective. Ibn Saud as a leader seems to be a honorable man of strong character - always forgiving his enemies but being forever vigilant and quick to react when cornered. One of the best historical treatises I have read among the popular literature with abundant footnotes. Slow to start but becomes more and more intriguing as you go. Congratulations to the author.

This is a must read for anyone who wants to understand Contemporary geopolitics. Why Saudi Arabia is the way it is han been very well brought out. Saud's genius in building a kingdom and dynasty is very evident.OTOH, the book is an undisguised PR effort for Ibn Saud. He is praised to the sky while others are dismissively caricatured. While opponents are 'fat, murderous, treacherous', Saud can go from being far sighted and wise to a simple Bedouin for whom a man's word is his contract (within the same chapter). Once you discount that, it is a rewarding read.

Very detailed and overall fair perspective of Saudi Arabia and its history. Would recommend

Very informative book about a man who created the modern Saudi Arabia. It shows how much of a diplomat he was while still being a patriot for his people. If you are not aware of this man I would recommend this book and see how a misunderstood part of the world came into being even as many other countries, specifically the British, did nothing but cause problems.

3.5 stars in my opinion. Lots of information, excellent research, and a thorough bibliography. However, the book reads a lot like a text book. And the book is misnamed. It covers the period from about 1870 to 2010 in the events of the development of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. About 75% of the book covers the life of its founder Ibn Saud. But its thrust is the kingdom and Saud; its not strictly a biography. Good reading if you want to get a good overview of Ibn Saud and the birth and development of Saudi Arabia.

What an excellent and fascinating read. Loved learning about this part of the country and the historic backdrop is especially important given today's news. The author does a good job of keeping things readable and documenting the footnotes. Photos at the end were good to see too.

Very detailed, about the family Saud; the country of Saudi Arabia; and its people. It makes you aware of the tribal nature that is deeply rooted in the people. The balancing act the the rulers of Saudi Arabia must do to appease tribes, religions, and neighboring people.

I learned a lot about the Bedouin way of life, and I came to respect Ibn Saud in a way that I did not expect. There was somewhat more detail than I felt was necessary, but it did not interfere with the overall flow of the book. I do not understand or agree with the current way of life in Saudi Arabia (at least as it is portrayed in our media), but I now have a much better understanding of the forces, culture, and this powerful character who created it. In spite of the brutality in his story, I feel Ibn Saud was a truly great leader and an admirable man.