Phoenix Press, 2000, $19.95, ISBN 1-84212-442-0, 258 pgs., trade paperback

This reprint of a 1973 work reads like a textbook, which should probably not be a surprise since Inalcik was a college professor. The prose, relatively uninspiring, conveys the information, although it may take some mental grit to plow through it.

The information within provides a good general overview (call it Ottoman Empire 101) regarding cultural, administrative, and historical events. Part One: An Outline of Ottoman History is the best as it recaps important aspects of the expansion of the Empire. For those with a sparse knowledge of Ottoman history, this will fill you in nicely. The rest of the book begins a decline in interest which accelerates the farther you go: Part Two: The State, Part Three: Economic and Social Life, and Part Four: Religion and Culture. That is not to dismiss the info, only to say it ranges far from military and history.

If you can find another book, it'll probably be better than this one. But if not, this will do. As a textbook, consider this a "C+" grade--not great, but not bad.