Must-read books on leadership

Title: Abu Bakr as-Siddeeq
Author: Dr. Ali Muhammad as-Sallabi
Translator: Faisal Shafeeq
Publisher: Darussalam
No. of pages: 784
Available at: All Darussalam outlets

The life of Abu Bakr (rta) is indeed a role model for all the leaders as well as leaders to-be. Abu Bakr was the first Caliph of the Muslims. He had to take extremely critical decisions during his caliphate. This book sheds light on his life and times, along with the leadership qualities that he manifested time and again.

Title: Umar Ibn Al-Khattab: His Life and Times
Author: Dr. Ali Muhammad as-Sallabi
Translator: Nasiruddin Al-Khattab
Publisher: International Islamic Publishing House
No. of pages: 1024
Available at: Dawah Books, Khadda Market, DHA, Karachi

This extensive two-volume, well-researched book on Umar Ibn Al-Khattab (rta) is a must-read for all those, who aspire to be leaders in their respective fields. These books shed deep insight into the life and times of the second rightly-guided caliph. Starting from his opposition and reversion to Islam, going on to the education he received from the Prophet (sa) and finally culminating into the different aspects of his leadership, these books contain many interesting incidents. All incidents have been well-referenced. This is also a must-have for every family library.

Title: Uthman Ibn Affan – Dhun-Noorayn
Author: Dr. Ali Muhammad as-Sallabi
Translator: Nasiruddin Al-Khattab
Publisher: Darussalam
No. of pages: 623
Available at: All Darussalam outlets

The third book in the series of the rightly-guided caliphate takes a look at the life and times of Uthman Ibn Affan (rta). Uthman (rta) became the Caliph after the martyrdom of Umar (rta), as a result of the extremely rigorous selection procedure implemented by the latter. The period of Uthman was one of turmoil, with a lot of friction between the Muslims themselves. The book clears many misconceptions regarding that turbulent period, and is a must-read for all those who wish to acquire deeper insight into the Islamic history.

– By Hafsa Ahsan