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Islam is conventionally thought to have arisen in the Arabian desert, free from any outside influences. But a new book by historian Tom Hollander provides some surprising historical context — and an origin story quite different from the one most people know.

In this week's podcast of weekends on All Things Considered, what the Wisconsin recall vote means for the rest of the country. Also, why crispy food is so irresistible and why this group dominates the American motel industry. Plus, the music of the Beach Boys and Jack White.

The vote Tuesday to recall Republican Gov. Scott Walker is being called the important race next to the presidential race this year. The major issues in the race — spending cuts and collective bargaining rights — have wider national implications.

An NPR team begins a series of reports from North Africa, where last year's revolutions have Tunisia, Libya and Egypt writing new rules for their changing societies. The Revolutionary Road Trip starts with a look at how Tunisians can now express themselves — and the new restrictions that have emerged.

With its step-by-step return to Asia, the U.S. is looking for ways to send a message to China without picking a fight. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta is visiting the region, emphasizing that the U.S. is back but with a much lighter touch. In Vietnam, he's hoping to build stronger defense ties.

Britons are halfway through a four-day holiday celebrating Queen Elizabeth's 60 years on the throne. On Sunday, the queen led a flotilla of a thousand boats on the Thames — described as the largest such river pageant in more than 300 years.

Now that Mitt Romney is lined up to capture the GOP presidential nomination, his policies are coming under closer scrutiny. When it comes to the foreign policy arena, analysts say the Republican candidate needs to better define himself, and show that he has better strategies than President Obama.

The European Central Bank holds a meeting this week as analysts warn of tough consequences if the euro crisis isn't brought under control. Billionaire investor George Soros goes further saying the euro crisis could bring down the entire European Union.

The Boston Celtics defeated Miami Heat Sunday night in overtime, 93-91. The Eastern Conference finals of the NBA playoffs are tied at 2-2. In the Western Conference final series, the Oklahoma City Thunder and the San Antonio Spurs are also tied 2-2.

David Greene checks in again with Reid Gorecki, who is playing baseball this summer with the Long Island Ducks. Reid is one of two minor league players Morning Edition is tracking this season as they try to make a big league roster.