In this revised edition of his 1982 text, Gilsenan (anthropology, Middle Eastern studies, New York U., New York) has added a new preface and introduction. The text, which is directed to anyone who wishes a keener understanding of Islamic society, is based on lengthy fieldwork in Lebanon, Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco, and provides an in-depth look at community structure, religion, and society as Gilsenan observed them, with subtlety and sympathy, during the period of upheaval felt throughout the Islamic world that followed the Iranian revolution. Distributed by Palgrave. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)