The Mind of Terror

What motivates Islamic terrorists? What is in the mind of terror? Our news reports from the Middle East cover events--bombings, massacres, and suicide attacks. Our newscasters take time to explain who the players are--from Hezbollah to the Iranian Quds, from ISIS to the Palestinian National Authority. But there is something underneath these events and players that fuels atrocity after atrocity in the Middle East. What is it? Tass Saada provides the answer to that question as he delves into the mind of terror, explaining what motivates extremist groups throughout the Middle East. A former Muslim and a onetime sniper with Yasser Arafat's Fatah organization, Tass has lived it himself. At age 42, he steered his life in a radical new direction, committing it to Jesus. Tass not only describes the motivations and aspirations of those who live in the Middle East, he also outlines a peaceful solution. We can plant seeds of hope that will transform not only the Middle East, but also our increasingly diverse neighborhoods at home. Discover the mind behind terror and how to oppose its grip.

My thoughts: This is an excellent book on understanding the minds behind the terrorists, exposing why they do what they do and offering insight on solutions for how to help them overcome that mindset.
Written by a former Muslim sniper who converted to Christianity in his early 40's, Tass Saada helps the reader to see what motivates extremists and how one can respond to them. I found this book incredibly interesting and informative, with his having come from that mindset himself. I have felt rather confused and shocked by ISIS and why they are wrecking such havoc and spreading hatred. This book helped highlight how people could be filled with such contempt for human life. He makes a good point that ISIS has highlighted the call to be terrorists in the Quran.
One of the things I liked best about this book is the stories that Tass shares about building schools in Muslim countries and how he has been able to establish common ground and relationships with those in the communities where the schools are located. He also has some information on how we can get involved from wherever we live.
I received this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.