The book provides an introduction that documents the origins of ISIS within the larger Al Qaeda organization during the Iraq War. It discusses the origins, development, and territorial expansion of ISIS in Syria and Iraq and examines the ideological motivations behind the emergence of ISIS.

Introduction : The significance of ISIS--What's in a name? : IS, ISIS, ISIL, Da'ash--What is ISIS?--Leaders of ISIS--The history and operations of ISIS : Iraq to Syria to Iraq again--Ideas behind ISIS--Enemies of ISIS--The attraction of ISIS--Allegiance to ISIS : the loyal following--ISIS and the media--Life in the Islamic State--Is ISIS a state?--Reference entries.