Examines the geographical, historical, economic, and cultural issues of 16 countries in the Middle East At a time when the turmoil and conflict in the Middle East dominates world news, students need to develop an understanding of the people and culture of this region. This five-volume set, first in the Discovering World Cultures series, examines geographical, historical, economic, and cultural issues in 16 Middle Eastern countries. For each nation, information about peoples, natural resources and geography, economy, and religion is included. A section on everyday life considers education, leisure activities, dress, holidays, the arts, and food - including sample recipes. Tables, charts, illustrations, timelines, and fact sheets provide visual references to support the written material. The newest, most up to date encyclopedia focusing on the Middle East exclusively for school students Text is complemented by sidebars and fact boxes