The Looming Tower: Al-Qaeda and the Road to 9/11 by Lawrence Wright is a non-fiction book that traces the origins and rise of Al-Qaeda, culminating in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The book delves into the history of Islamic fundamentalism, exploring key figures such as Sayyid Qutb, who influenced radical ideologies, and Osama bin Laden, the leader of Al-Qaeda. Wright provides a detailed account of the political and religious movements that led to the formation of the group, as well as the U.S. government's response to growing threats in the Middle East. Through a combination of historical analysis and personal stories, The Looming Tower examines the complex interplay of politics, religion, and international relations in the years leading up to the 9/11 attacks. It highlights the failures of intelligence agencies, the ideological motivations behind Al-Qaeda, and the eventual tragedy of that day. The book provides crucial context for understanding the global war on terror and the challenges in preventing future attacks.

ISBN: 9781400030842