Based on information provided by the bin Laden family, extensive independent research, and an insider's view developed during his current and longtime residence in the Middle East, the author brings a thorough knowledge of the region's politics and society to the story, and underscores the contradictions that make up the real Osama bin Laden.

Originally published: Edinburgh : Mainstream, 2001. Includes index.

1Family Ties That Bind 11 -- 2 The Manhattan of the Desert 17 -- 3 National Politics, Childhood Scars 33 -- 4 Son of the Slave 49 -- 5 Off the Rails 61 -- 6 Alcohol and Redemption 73 -- 7 Fighting for Islam 83 -- 8 Birth of an Icon 103 -- 9 Blowback 113 -- 10 Homecoming of a Hero 121 -- 11 Terrorism Inc. 135 -- 12 Establishing the Firm 155 -- 13 Full Circle 167 -- 14 International Merger and Expansion 185 -- 15 Diversification of the Core Business 199 -- 16 Smoke Screen 209 -- 17 African Smoke Screen, World Cup Soccer 217 -- 18 Putting Atta to Sleep 233 -- 19 The President's Nemesis 239 -- 20 Tweaking the Nose of the Enemy 253 -- 21 Preparing for War 265 -- 22 One Day in the Sun 275.