The New York Times bestselling story of Haj Ibrahim as he tries to lead and protect his village in the time leading up to and following the rebirth of Israel. From the moment Ibrahim is declared the Muktar of Tabah, he is forced to grapple with the growing tensions between the Arabs and the Jews in the Middle East. As fights break out and guerrilla warfare takes hold, Ibrahim’s family and … villagers are forced to flee. Separated from the other villagers, Ibrahim and his family struggle for survival as refugees amidst the raging war. Leon Uris is no stranger to writing about the birth of Palestine, but The Haj offers an Arab perspective that gives a comprehensive look at the dynamic history of the Middle East.
“Tumultuous.” —USA Today
“The Haj plays to one of the strongest and oldest human drives—curiosity, the need to know.” —The Washington Post Book World
“No serious study of the Middle East would be complete without the perspective of this book.” —El Paso Times
About the Author:
Leon Uris (1924–2003) was an author of fiction, nonfiction, and screenplays whose works include numerous bestselling novels. His epic Exodus (1958) has been translated into over fifty languages. Uris’s work is notable for its focus on dramatic moments in contemporary history, including World War II and its aftermath, the birth of modern Israel, and the Cold War. Through the massive success of his novels and his skill as a storyteller, Uris has had enormous influence on popular understanding of twentieth-century history. Follow @authorleonuris on Facebook for updates.
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Opens a different view
I first read this book shortly after its release. It was a great story then and it’s a great story now, especially given the current situation in the Middle East.
There are some who say that Uris, a Jew, paints a slanted account of events surrounding the creation of the State of Israel. However, looking back on the history of the region and the …
A classic but not an easy read. I suggest researching Islam references to ensure accurate portrayals but a really good, long read.
Truly moving
Well researched and written. A story well told.
Definitely worth reading.
I’m a long-time Leon Uris fan. Everything I’ve read of his books has been at least a 4 star rating. The Haj gave me a closer picture of the culture differences between the Middle Eastern countries. Well written!
Gave me great insight into the difficult relationship between the Palestinians and the Israelis. I expected it to be somewhat Israeli propaganda, but I did not feel like it was after reading it.
Got me interested in Jewish and Palestinian history
Again, uris is a brilliant writer of historical fiction- thorough researcher
Good insight of the Palestinian/Israeli problem
This is great historical fiction that gives the reader a glimpse into Middle Eastern culture and history . Uris is a master storyteller.
Great background and context for Westerners not familiar with the details of this important element of the Islamic faith. Reads easier than some “history” books but it is obvious that a great deal of research and study went into this book.
may be a book that is slanted against arabs.
This is the 3rd time I have read this book. Even though it was written in 1984, it still gives great insight into the Arab culture. I’m sure a lot of this mind set is still the same as the time period that it was written about.
A great story.
The author adroitly weaves in this fiction book the historical facts regarding the ongoing conflict between the Arabs and Jews. It’s a must-read for those who want to better understand issues between these two nations.
I love Leon Uris and will recommend his books to anyone who wants a first person look at the culture of the Middle East. well written, impeccably researched tome from either perspective, shows the shattering impact on us all these years later.
Great information on a culture totally unlike my own. Presented a clearer vision of a faith system that has be perverted for all sorts of selfish ends.
helps me understand the Arab mentality. Centuries of thinking can not be changed easily.I feel we all need to read this book. A very serious book. It is really how ISIS was formed and has such a strong foothold in the Arab Nations. I am going to read Exodus again.
Leon is one of my favorite authors. And this book does not disappoint.