Khuloud Al-Zughair's "Syria: State and Identity" offers a profound analysis of the evolution of political consciousness in Syria between 1946 and 1963. This critical study delves into how foundational concepts such as "nation" (umma), "nationalism" (qawmiyya), and the "national state" shaped Syrian political discourse during a pivotal post-independence era. The book examines the intellectual and societal currents that defined Syrian identity, exploring the complexities of state-building amidst varying interpretations of national belonging. It provides valuable insights into the ideological struggles and conceptual debates that laid the groundwork for modern Syrian political thought and its lasting impact on the region.