Leap of Faith

Memoirs of an Unexpected Life

By: Queen Noor

Narrated by: Suzanne Toren

When Lisa Najeeb Halaby was 26, her father introduced her to King Hussein of Jordan. Within a year, she became his fourth wife. Born in 1951 to a distinguished Arab-American family, Lisa was unsure what her role would be. King Hussein was not only the head of state in Jordan but also considered the spiritual leader of all Muslims. This memoir provides a vital perspective on 30 years of turbulent world history from the Arab point of view: the displacement of over one million Palestinians by the creation of Israel, Hussein's frustrating efforts for peace, and the impact of Saddam Hussein and the Gulf War on Jordan and the royal family. A fascinating and dramatic portrait of a woman who took a great risk in a part of the world where women's roles are narrowly defined.©2003 Her Majesty Queen Noor (P)2003 BBC Audiobooks America

Critic reviews

"Anyone who loved The King and I will readily warm to the love story of Queen Noor and the late King Hussein of Jordan." (Publishers Weekly)

"A story of love and family, growth and loss, well told and beautifully read by Suzanne Toren, and remarkably moving." (AudioFile)

Distorted Perspective

The violence and oppression of Islam represented in such a way that the polygamy and immorality of a King are rationalized. I really do feel sorry for this woman who is queen #3 or #4? Whatever! She also tells a distorted history of Israel. Israel is a race of people who came back to a land that only thrives when that particular race inhabits it! Islamists who resent Israel are just racist and jealous. Why can’t Jordanians concentrate on making their own land thrive as much as Israelis concentrate on making their own land of Israel thrive? Because Jordanians are ruled by an immoral and covetous people lacking in understanding moral laws of civility. Is there hope for Jordan? Yes. But theocracy and hatefulness do not make a nation great. Turn from evil and idolatry! Be the first to bless God and His people (Israel) that you and your country will also be blessed.

Excellent!

Overall this was an excellent historical account of Queen Noor's life and the history of Jordan. Some details were unnecessary and drawn out and I was a bit disappointed the Queen herself only narrated the introduction.

This book is a wonderful story of a Queen who did not live a fairy tale life, but a privledged life. Queen Noor has taken every opportunity to serve her country, family and husband. A very interesting tale of a unique life story.

Loved it

Would you listen to Leap of Faith again? Why?

I read this book just before end of my mission in jordan, after wonderful year and a half in country and im glad i did... I had this book for sometimes before i start reading and i didnt expepct it to be this good. I loved the way it was written, the very end of the book brought me to tears... I wish there was more of it but as for book it was just enough of personal to share. I recomende this book to all my friends.

Mesmerizing

In this current chaotic time in the world this beautifully written memoir gave me hope for the future. Beautiful and uplifting love story

A love story for the world

Through the eyes of a loving spouse and partner we share that live and insight into Jordan's extraordinary history.