Jawhariyyeh (1897-1972) wrote about the music, peoples, and politics of Ottoman era and British mandate-governed Jerusalem, and later self-exile in Beirut. The introduction to this English-language edition of the Renaissance man's memoir, first published in Arabic in two volumes, notes the influence of Qu'ranic recitation on the Greek Orthodox amateur musician. The work includes photographs, a glossary, list of journal entries, and details on the Ottoman property tax system. Edited by Tamari (sociology, Birzeit U.) and Nassar (history, Illinois State U.). Translated by Elzeer (Arabic, U. of London). Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)