A nuanced portrait of one of the most complex figures of the Middle East, Gamal Abd al-Nasser.

More than fifty years after his death, Gamal Abd al-Nasser remains a towering figure in the Arab world. As one of the young officers who overthrew British-backed King Farouk in Egypt in 1952, Nasser rose to prominence as a charismatic visionary who challenged foreign dominance. At just thirty-six years old, he became the undisputed leader of Egypt in a presidency that would run from 1956 to 1970.

This insightful biography, in its second edition and featuring a new introduction from the author, delves into the life of Nasser, charting his rise to power, his nationalization of the Suez Canal, and his turbulent years as president. Many in the Arab World celebrate Nasser for his defiance of colonial rule and his dream of Arab unity. However, his legacy is not without its contradictions. Critics have alluded, for instance, to his autocratic rule and unfulfilled promises. In Nasser, Anne Alexander explores this tension between Nasser’s revolutionary ideas and the reality of his governance.

One of the young officers who overthrew King Farouq in 1952, Nasser was 36 years old when he became the undisputed leader of Egypt. In 1956 he nationalised the Suez Canal, braving the anger of Britain, France and war with Israel.

Every night Sherri hears noises that keep her awake. There’s a tap-tap, a tick-tock, a toot-toot, and a mysterious noise that stops as soon as she calls out to the rest of the household. One night she wakes up five times and even her pet dog and cat are tired the next day. What is this worrisome noise that disturbs everyone’s sleep?

Featuring warm and quirky illustrations by Abner Graboff, this is a charming and reassuring tale for any child who is frightened by noises in the night . . . with a delightful twist at the end.