cover image Islam

Islam

George W. Braswell. B&H Publishing Group, $24.99 (352pp) ISBN 978-0-8054-1169-0

Braswell, a professor of world religions who has spent much of his academic life living and teaching in Iran, tries to correct American stereotypes of Muslims in this well-balanced and judicious overview of the history and teachings of Islam. He opens with 20 questions constantly asked by modern Western society about Islam, and he structures the book around his answers, which concern the customs, practices and theology of the religion. In addition, Braswell examines in detail the intersections of a Muslim's personal and family life with his or her social life and political life. Finally, he demonstrates the ways in which Islam responds to contemporary issues like abortion and AIDS. Braswell's book should be required reading for all journalists, business people and tourists traveling to an Islamic culture. (July)