Sudan

• Part 1 Background and context: the problem of national identity and historical legacies; the contradictory policies of Numairi 1969-1985. Part 2 Democratic period 1985-1989: the transition to democracy; polarization during the parliamentary period; efforts to resolve the civil war. Part 3 Polarization under the Islamist government: the evolving political system; indoctrination and control; fragmented opposition; the impasse in negotiations; emerging consensus within the opposition movement. Appendix: the changing composition of governments.

It is crisply and clearly written, with excellent footnotes and bibliography, and should be read not only by those seeking to understand Muslim-Christian conflicts but by all with a concern for refugees, for the victims of human rights' abuses and even more general concerns about the instability of Africa. No specialist knowledge is required.