Bob Tomlinson is a world class scholar on the Shi'i dynamic within Lebanon, and this book reflects this sentiment perfectly. He provides an oft-ignored perspective on this critical group, and with it an alternative lens vital toward understanding the global Shi'i narrative during a key historical period.

Paul S. Lieber, Joint Special Operations University

This book deftly explores an important and oft-ignored aspect of the Lebanese Civil War: how Lebanese Shi`a and Shi`a political movements were misperceived by western media. Tomlinson uncovers how Western media organizations overlooked the significance of the Shi`a community and developed narratives that simplified their role in Lebanese politics and war. His work makes a compelling case for the importance of accuracy in war reporting, particularly insofar as such reporting can influence and shape the policies of intervening foreign powers.

Afshon Ostovar, author of Vanguard of the Imam