After the Prophet

The Epic Story of the Shia-Sunni Split in Islam

By: Lesley Hazleton

Narrated by: Lesley Hazleton

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, sparking 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.

Combining meticulous research with compelling storytelling, After the Prophet explores the volatile intersections of religion and politics, psychology and culture, and history and current events. It is an indispensable guide to the depth and power of the Shia-Sunni split.

©2009 Lesley Hazleton (P)2016 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Storytelling -based on research- at its best!

This author is a master storyteller. The information has been carefully researched and it unfolds in a way that the reader/listener craves more and more. Can't recommend this book and author highly enough.

good solid research

well narrated book and very well researched keeping an unbiased view on a sensitive issue. Lesley does a good job of presenting the issue from a pure historical and academic point of view. highly recommended.

Riveting

This is a remarkably entertaining audiobook. Islam is often understood in the West as a monolithic religion when nothing could be farther from the truth. However, we should read the Quran the religion of Islam was quickly overcome by the surrounding culture. This book presents the story of Islam immediately following the death of Muhammad through the first four Caliphs until the beginning of the Umayyad dynasty. If you have any interest at all in the subject then I think you will enjoy this book.

One of the best!!

History has never sounded so riveting and entertaining yet after reading this book, one can understand why the Shia and Sunni schism is deep yet the religious differences between the two are subtle.

There are a lot of comments about how the historical references tilt towards the Shia but if you pick a number of primary source accounts, the historical events remain the same. One has to look at historical figures in the light of the events that surrounded them rather than glorified accounts written in the future with different interpretations or made up events. I don’t see that as an attack on anyone’s faith or religion.

Cinematic storytelling concerning the corrosiveness of power

This maybe the most engrossing and applicable history account I've ever read. Illuminating character studies abound. Most importantly it serves as a warning to all who would consider seeking power or supporting those who do.

Epic performance and doubted facts

Great book that summarizes the most controversial subject of Islamic politics. Facts mentioned in the book are sometimes doubtful and to be taken with a pinch of salt. Epic performance by Lesley Hazelton

Bravo!!

A very good summary of an very well researched controversial subject matter, narrated beautifully. Kudos to Lesley!!👏👏👏👏

Good historical story telling

We assume so much when thinking of cultures and religions not our own. This was eye opening for me with regards to Islam. Never boring. Real history rarely is when diving deep into the lives and emotions of people.

Simply Fantastic

I came to this book with a cursory understanding of Sunni/Shia differences, as well as -- if I'm honest, a fairly meager understanding of the history of Islam. This book pulls off a major feat in being both informational and riveting. Totally riveting. Stay-up-far-longer-than-intended riveting.

At first, I was somewhat skeptical of the narrator. Meaning simply that I wasn't sure from the sample that I would enjoy her narration.) Well, I more than enjoyed it; I loved it. I can't think of a better narrator for this

I realize that I may come across as being hyperbolic, but this is simply one of the best audiobooks I've ever listened to -- in any genre. If you have the slightest bit of interest in learning more about Islam, about divisions within the religion, or even just if you're looking for a story that will command your full attention...well, then I would highly recommend listening to this audiobook.

Incredible history deeply relevant to today

A vivid, rich and moving account of the 50 years after Mohammed's death, and the rise of the Sunni Shia split which still drives international politics and history today. Essential for understanding the Middle East and Islam,and beautifully narrated by the author. Highly recommended.