Being Muslim - (Groundwork Guides) 2nd Edition by Haroon Siddiqui (Paperback)

About the Book

Long a charged topic in the West, Islam has become incendiary since 9/11, drawing heated reactions from both defenders and critics. The two sides rarely talk, and when they try neither seems to listen. Equally helpful for Muslims and non-Muslims, this book is a cross-cultural attempt to bridge these worlds. Based on the author's travels in Muslim lands and his interviews with experts, "Being Muslim" examines the impact of terrorism on Muslims and explains how Islam works in the daily lives of believers. Siddiqui dissects the Western media's treatment of Islam and Muslims, shows how extremists are being challenged by a new Islamic generation, and tackles the controversial topics, from terrorism to the treatment of women, that have been used to mischaracterize Islam and its adherents. "Being Muslim" also shows why there are good reasons to expect a future of mutual understanding. Charts, a glossary, and suggestions for further reading accompany the text.

Book Synopsis

Since 9/11, the world has been confronted with the most volatile facets of Islam with little explanation of how or why these controversial elements developed. Written by one of North America's most honored journalists, Being Muslim presents an up-front and clear explanation of this complex and emotion-laden subject. Although the varying branches of Islam are analyzed and their history outlined, the real focus of the book is on the present. In speaking about and crossing political, cultural, and religious divisions, the author offers a unique perspective based on life in Canada, a country in which diverse groups of people have found a way to live in peace. Aimed at young adults, the book offers invaluable insight to readers of all ages, cultures, and religious traditions.

Review Quotes

...reading the slim, cleanly crafted volume has the effect of jogging you back into something like lucidity....a book that should find its way into every school library in the country.-- "Edmonton Journal"

...this basic knowledge will help non-Islamic readers to make sense of what they see on the news, and to sort out the truth from the propaganda.-- "Globe and Mail"

[Siddiqui's] clear, passionate discussion confronts international issues that are in the news now...Excellent for classroom discussion.-- "Booklist, STARRED REVIEW"

An accessible and timely book.-- "Curriculum Connections (SLJ)"

Being Muslim is an excellent overview for students in grade 9 through 12, teachers of World Issues and cross-cultural studies courses, and for high school library collections.-- "CM Magazine"

Being Muslim offers an intense, micro-level commentary on Islam and today's political landscape.-- "Saudi Aramco World"

Each of the four well-written and engaging books in this valuable series provides a foundation for understanding an important subject relevant to current world stability and peace.-- "Library Media Connection"

Extremely challenging and thought-provoking, this book would be an excellent resource for senior high school students interested in politics and debate.-- "Resource Links"

Siddiqui...writes with clarity, wit and balance, though not without moral passion...An excellent place to start thinking about Islam and the Arab world today.-- "Christian Century"

This balanced, concise book is an excellent resource for social studies or debate class...The author's tone is conversational and engaging, and frequent breaks in the text make this small book very readable.-- "School Library Journal"