Inside Al-Shabaab: The Secret History of Al-Qaeda's Most Powerful Ally Paperback – October 1, 2018

A Middle East-focused author and former US diplomat, I found this book the best - and certainly most enjoyable - book I've read partly or wholly on Al Shabaab. The introduction is particularly well written. In addition to a detailed account of the evolution of Al Shabaab and its relationship to AQ (and the role of the US in unwittingly facilitating that 'promotion'), the authors offer an essential introduction to 50 years of Somali history and its relationship with the United States. For those interested in US policy with respect to conflict and post-conflict states, the conclusion is worth a second (and perhaps third) read.- Ethan Chorin, Author of "Benghazi: A New History of the Fiasco that Pushed America and its World to the Brink" (Hachette, 2022)

This is the only book that covers the true face of Shabaab. Would recommend the book to all Somalis with the hope that they will take back there country from the corrupt politicians and murderous terrorists.

great read! bravo to harun

Good break down of the warring parties in Somalia and how easy it was for al-Qaeda to get a foot in the door.

I loved this book. First, the authors are super knowledgeable and really did their homework. Also, the book reads like really good reportage. This book makes you think about the bigger issues at stake for the archetypal "failed state" while never loosing sight of how it impacts Somalians everyday.This a story that we should know more about. I highly recommend it for those interested in their world.

I thought this might feel academic and heavy, but it was a fascinating and fun read and still delivered on the information side. Good book for anyone wanting to understand al-Shabaab and some Somali history.

useless info that is hypothesized and none factual. Nothing is further from the truth than what’s contained this collection of hearsay’s and innuendoes.