Syria has been in the news in recent years for its civil war and ensuing refugee crisis, but there is so much more to this nation and its people than violence and suffering. Readers are invited to go beyond the headlines in this comprehensive look at Syrian culture. While the objective text discusses current events, readers are also able to learn more about Syria's people—from their beliefs and traditions to their arts and cuisine. Fact boxes, sidebars, maps, and photographs enhance the main text, and recipes provide a hands-on way to explore this culture.