Lessons from Surah al-Kahf

*Master Your Emotions* by Thibaut Meurisse is a practical guide to understanding and managing your emotional life. The book offers actionable strategies to help readers gain greater control over their emotions, particularly in stressful or challenging situations. Meurisse explores the role of emotional intelligence in personal development and emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, self-awareness, and reframing negative thoughts. Through a combination of psychological insights, techniques like cognitive reframing, and tips for cultivating emotional resilience, the book empowers readers to navigate their emotions more effectively, reduce emotional reactivity, and improve overall mental well-being. *Master Your Emotions* is a straightforward, no-nonsense resource for anyone seeking to develop a healthier relationship with their emotions and build emotional strength in their everyday life.

*Pakistan on the Brink: The Future of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the United States* by Ahmed Rashid is a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the political, social, and economic challenges facing Pakistan in the 21st century. Written by a seasoned journalist and expert on South Asian affairs, the book explores the fragile state of Pakistan, especially in the context of its relationship with Afghanistan, the United States, and the broader region. Rashid addresses critical issues such as extremism, political instability, military dominance, and the struggle for democratic governance. He also delves into the complex dynamics between Pakistan and its neighbors, particularly the war on terror and the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan. Offering a mix of historical perspective and contemporary analysis, *Pakistan on the Brink* provides a detailed understanding of the internal and external pressures that threaten the stability of Pakistan and the region. It is both a warning and a call for action, urging global and local stakeholders to address these issues before they escalate further.

*The Ballad of Never After* by Stephanie Garber is the second book in *The Once Upon a Broken Heart* series, continuing the magical and suspenseful story of Evangeline Fox. Following the events of the first book, Evangeline is once again caught in a world of enchantment, betrayal, and complicated love. After making a dangerous bargain with the Prince of Hearts, Jacks, Evangeline must navigate the twists and turns of her own destiny while facing the fallout from her past decisions. As she struggles with the challenges of love, loyalty, and power, Evangeline must confront dark forces and uncover hidden truths to protect herself and those she cares about. *The Ballad of Never After* is a fast-paced, emotional ride, blending romance, danger, and magic in a world where nothing is as it seems. With its compelling characters and unexpected plot twists, it keeps readers on the edge of their seats, offering a rich continuation of the series.

*Why Nations Go to War* by John G. Stoessinger is a comprehensive analysis of the causes of war, examining both historical and contemporary conflicts to understand why nations engage in violent conflict. The book explores various political, social, and psychological factors that lead to war, including national ambitions, misperceptions, fear, and the roles of individual leaders. Stoessinger uses case studies of major wars, such as World War I, the Vietnam War, and the Gulf War, to highlight how misunderstandings, unchecked power, and the failure of diplomacy contribute to the escalation of conflicts. The book also emphasizes the human cost of war and the importance of understanding the deeper, often irrational motivations behind international conflict. *Why Nations Go to War* is an insightful and accessible work for readers interested in international relations, political science, and the complexities of global conflict.