"A welcome addition to the literature on a state about which most Americans know very little."---Perspectives on Political Science<BR><BR>"For the nonexpert or the reader contemplating a first visit to the kingdom, this book is an excellently concise introduction to a fascinating country. Even readers familiar with the kingdom will find of interest Long's observations on Saudi society and the cultural context in which decision making takes place."---Middle East Policy<BR><BR>"With succinct chapters on Saudi geography and people, history and politics, oil and development, foreign and security politics, and a particularly fine essay on the hajj, Long's book is remarkably successful in providing a feel for this country of startling contrasts and anomalies.... This short and readable handbook is an extraordinary resource for up-to-date information and fair-minded interpretation."---Choice<BR><BR>"Full of insights into a complex and often misunderstood society which has so far managed to reconcile the secularizing influences of modern technology with its strong religious traditions.... Sophisticated and penetrating."---International Journal of Middle East Studies<BR><BR>"Introduces the country, its people, and its rulers, focusing on the political system, oil wealth (and subsequent economic development and modernization), its religious identity, and Riyadh's foreign and national security policies....Will undoubtedly become the new reference work on Saudi Arabia."---Middle East Studies Association Bulletin<BR><BR>This Second Edition has been thoroughly revised and updated and includes new chapters on tradition and modernity and on Islam and society. Author David Long has been joined by new coauthor Sebastian Maisel; together they offer extensive analysis of the substantial political, economic, and social changes that have taken place in the past ten years, including 9/11, the U.S. war on terror, the Saudi war on terror, oil pricing, and technological advancements.