Return of the Pharaoh (Memoirs in Nasir's Prison) Narrated by Abdullah: The prophet (pbuh) said "the best of people are those living in my generation, and then those who will follow them, and then those who will follow the latter"….. (Sahih Bukhari)

Alhamdulillah I thoroughly enjoyed reading these two books, they were a definite refreshing change for me. What drew me to these books was the fact that many including my self are not aware of the sacrifices and hardship many other unknown sahabahs or companions had to strive for to make Islam a new world order.

Abdul Wahid Hamid does an excellent job in utilising many Arabic and English sources to highlight aspects of the lives of sixty companions of the prophet, some famous, others almost completely unknown. The author documents and portrays the trials and triumphs of the early Muslims, to give the reader an idea of some of the journeys and various paths the companions undertook to reach Islam. Both these books are jam-packed with examples of the long and torturous journeys many companions embarked on to demonstrate their conviction and devotion to Allah swt and the messenger of Allah. To their credit it is no exaggeration to suggest each companion would repeat their painful ordeals a thousand fold if it meant gaining the pleasure of Allah swt.

Their only regret if they had any was why they hadn't become Muslim sooner. I think many readers would find several if not all the stories the author has selected to be very inspirational and perfect examples for us to live by today. Their feat of heroism, endeavours in peace time and their exploits in war will truly astonish the reader, and it is for that reason they are known as the best of mankind. Another important credit to the author, whilst reading these stories, the reader can begin to understand and depict a more intimate and special relationship with the character of the prophet, may Allah bestow his everlasting blessings and mercy on him.

The author uses an extremely simple style in writing these two books, a style in which makes reading the book very enjoyable. Every chapter of these books are lively and gripping making the reader want to continue to read on and on and on. The author wisely refrains from delving too much into the pre-Islamic lives many of the companions lived, rather the author summarises their lives before Islam and concentrates more on the unique transformation Islam had on them. These are great books, made for all ages, and for people at different levels of Islamic knowledge.

I would definitely recommend this to anyone wishing to gain an inspirational insight into the lives of some other companions of the prophet. The lives of the companions of the prophet may Allah bless them all, is a rich stockpile of knowledge, wisdom and guidance. These men and women helped lay down the foundations of Islam. It is because of their efforts we are Muslim today and we have such a magnificent history to be proud of, we should take examples from their lives so we can lead successful and prosperous lives in this world and the next insha'allah.