How has the process of modern globalization fundamentally transformed the practice, organization, and diversification of Islam over the last 150 years? Historian Nile Green utilizes a broad comparative framework to analyze the movement of Islamic ideas and institutions across international borders. By examining the roles of individual activists, non-governmental organizations, and state actors, the author argues that modern Islam is not a monolithic entity but a collection of competing versions shaped by global connectivity. The text synthesizes historical data to explain how diverse movements, ranging from Sufism to Salafism, have adapted to the pressures of the modern era.

Experts and readers frequently cite this work as a concise, high-level synthesis suitable for those seeking a structured introduction to complex religious movements. The prose is noted for its academic clarity and its ability to distill vast historical trends into an accessible format for students and general readers alike.