'... a fine piece of scholarly work in the field of feminist studies.' Asian and African Studies '... Nadje Al-Ali study of Middle Eastern women breaks new ground and points to a future programme of original and refreshing research.' Journal of Contemporary History 'This book presents and analyses the author's interviews with selected activists in the women's movement in Egypt, highlighting their extensive struggles to achieve political and civil rights. The work as a whole should help to undermine further the old stereotype of the passive, submissive creature of the 'harem'. It will also help to promote a better understanding of the great similarities among women activists regardless of birthplace, and the alliances that have existed and continue to be made between them across nations, faiths, and colours. ... In this well-researched and well-written book, Al-Ali has brought a difficult subject to life and produced a work that will be of great interest to all readers, specialist and non-specialist alike.' Haleh Afshar, University of York 'An attractive title promises an exciting book, and the expectations are entirely fulfilled.' Studia Orientalia