Based on interviews with Islamic State insiders, Abdel Bari Atwan reveals the origins and modus operandi of the fastest-growing and richest terrorist group in the world. Outlining its leadership structure and strategies, Atwan describes the group's ideological differences with al-Qa`ida and why IS appear to pose a greater threat to the West. He shows how it has masterfully used social media, Hollywood `blockbuster'-style videos, and even jihadi computer games to spread its message and to recruit young people, from Tunisia to Bradford. As Islamic State continues to dominate the world's media headlines with acts of ruthless violence, Atwan considers its chances of survival and offers indispensable insight into potential government responses to contain the IS threat.

Abdel Bari Atwan was Editor-in-Chief of London-based daily al-Quds al-Arabi for 25 years. He now edits Rai al-Youm. Born in Palestine, he has lived in Britain for over thirty years and is a familiar face on UK and US television. Atwan interviewed Osama bin Laden twice and has cultivated uniquely well-placed sources from within the various branches of al-Qa'ida and other jihadi groups, including IS, over the last fifteen years. www.bariatwan.com/english