5 comments about Gardens of Water: A Novel.

1. GARDENS OF WATER is a very good read. The book shows some of the problems of the Middle East. One family, in particular, are at odds with everyone. They are Muslims/Kurds. They are displaced refugees in Turkey. The teen-age daughter is fighting a moral battle with her Muslim values and the freedoms of the West. It is very insightful showing the problems Christians bring when they come to "save" them after the tremendous earthquake. The imagery of the earthquake is very compelling. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes stories of other cultures.



2. The 1999 Mamara earthquake, approximately 7.6 in magnitude, struck northwestern Turkey on August 17, 1999 at about 3:01am local time. Even though the event only lasted for thirty-seven seconds, the event ended up killing up to forty-five thousand people and left approximately half a million people homeless. 50,000 houses were heavily damaged, 2000 other buildings collapsed and 4000 other building were heavily damaged.
   
   This terrible disaster forms the core of Alan Drew's first novel, Gardens of Water, a story that mirrors a seismic shift, not in just the earth, but as also lived by a poor Kurdish family who find themselves caught up in an evolving world and in the evolving politics of their country where Turks and Kurds, Christian, and Moslems inevitably clash with unexpected consequences.
   
   Consigned to virtually living in a ramshackle tent city, after the earthquake destroys their apartment block in downtown of Golcuk, the club footed grocer, Sinan Basioglu, his wife, Nilufer, along with their fifteen-year-old daughter, Irem, and their nine-year-old son, Ismail, are subjected to the whims of fate as their lives become one long trial after another.
   
   A strong, but devoutly conservative man who is fiercely protective of his family, particularly of Ismail whom he loves with an unadulterated abundance, Sinan is at first unaware of the more serious implications that surface when he becomes involved with the an American director of one of the expensive private missionary schools, Marcus Roberts, and his wife Sarah and their tattooed son Dylan.
   
   The Robert's have been living in the same apartment block, but they are unexpectedly thrust together with Sinan and his family and it is Sinan who ultimately resents these Americans who are pushing their way into his life, these Americans who are in league with the Turks and have helped the Turkish government destroy Kurdish villages.
   
   In the aftermath of the quake, Sarah has sacrificed her own life so that Ismail may live, when he falls and then wakes in Sarah's arms with the water she had placed on his lips. Meanwhile, Sinan is sorry for Marcus' loss, but he needs to make the American understand that the vulnerable Irem must not be seen with his son Dylan.
   
   Even on the night of the quake, Dylan had tried to touch her, and panicked, she has silently tried to pull away. But the poor Irem just cannot help herself; she's drawn to the dashing and seductive Dylan, partly out of sexual curiosity, but also because she's trying to find the love that her father has for most of his life denied her. All her life she's known that Sinan has favored her younger brother rather than here and this knowledge throws her into a maelstrom of insecurities.
   
   As Dylan and Irem continue to meet for furtive trysts at night by the seashore, an evolving personal, political and indeed competitive dynamic develops between Marcus and Sinan. Sinan resents the fact that he's led a hardscrabble life defined by blood, death and destruction, when he hears of Marcus' life, his trips to and from America and his simple ability to make the choice to quit his job. This is so outside the realm of Sinan's experience.
   
   Considering that the this delicate family dynamic is doomed to rupture, Sinan's role as patriarch and provider for his family is bought into question when they relocate to a sodden and makeshift camp with only a group of American Christian missionaries to support them, feed them and offer them some measure of comfort. It is here finally, that Sinan knows he needs to do something, where everyone is gone, and everything has changed.
   
   Faced with an errant, daughter, willfully disobeying him and flirting with the American boy, and now the Americans themselves, here to help, even though everyone in his home town knows that America supported the Turkish paramilitary, Sinan is almost helpless to unravel all of the emotional baggage created years ago when he was a small boy in his old childhood home of Yesilli.
   
   A sense of desolation is constant in this heart-breaking novel, especially for the Sinan as he fanatically tries to find work, forced to carry televisions through the crowded streets of Istanbul, his swollen foot aching as he walks, the weight of them almost unbearable; and the virginal Irem as she gradually becomes torn between the affections of her young American beau and her stubborn, old-world father who refuses to let he go her own way.
   
   Weaving into the narrative the themes of god and death and how the dead can finally win over all the living people, Drew has written a fascinating account of modern Turkey that combines the cosmopolitanism of Istanbul with the smaller towns, all ravaged by this terrible earthquake. The author also writes a tender account of an average family, who are forced once and for all, to confront the extraordinary compassion and capacity for forgiveness that lies within their hearts. Mike Leonard March 08.



3. Garden's of Water, a debut novel, by Alan Drew, is a rich and multi-level work. The book is an honest and tragic look at at a small Kurdish family; however the appeal is universal. Parts of the novel harken back to the tragedy of King Lear and the star-crossed lovers in Romeo and Juliet.
   
   In synopsis the story is rather simple with six main characters a small Kurdish family: Father, Mother, Ismail, the young son and the teenage daughter, Irem, and the family of a Christian missionary educator,( poorly fleshed-out), his wife and teenage son.
   
   Rather than recounting the story; I would rather list some major themes: a clash of cultures, a father's honor, the role of women in Islamic society, the power of community and the hopelessness of poverty.
   
   The Water of the title runs as a theme throughout the book: the Bosphorius, a life saved by water, a life ended by water,water for healing and washing for prayer.
   
   A beautiful little book with a real insight into a man's soul.The book will stay with you long after you finish it. A gem of a book, I highly recommend it.



4. In a complex world of clashing cultures, both between nations as well as within one another, Alan Drew weaves a tale that captivates the readers emotions, taking hold until the very end.
   
   The story begins as Sinan and his Kurdish family celebrate their son's rite of passage. It is at this early point in the story that we discover that Irem, their teenage daughter bares a slight jealously towards her beloved brother for their parents favored treatment. We also learn of Irem's relationship with the American boy who lives in the apartment above them.
   
   Suddenly, an earthquate hits the town that changes the life of each and every character forever.
   
   So begins a tale that will ultimately lead to passion, fear, regret, loss, friendship, forgiveness, guilt, anger, and peace.
   
   Irem will have you quickly reminiscing of those feelings as a rebellious teenager stricken with a desperate case of puppy love.
   
   Sinan, the most complex character of the novel, will cause your emotions to fluctuate as you journey with him through the depth of a father's love, his misconstrued hatred for America and his contemplation of how to regain the honor of his family.
   
   The ending comes as quite a surprise and I am sincerely impressed with this fresh novelist's debut into the literary world.
   
   It is with great anticipation that I await his next project.



5. After reading a story about Alan Drew in Poets and Writers magazine, as well as the positive reviews on this website, I read Gardens of Water, and throughout the entire story kept thinking, "What are people in this country willing to settle for?"
   
   The book, as well as its reviews, tend toward some study or commentary over the supposed cultural/religious clash in the book (clue: there really isn't one except for some individual character's personal experiences, and even then the writer couldn't decide if it was a cultural clash or a religious one), but the characters themselves are not well thought out, and Drew never considers the more overarching themes of what faith and belief are, how they are culturally influenced, or what stays of that culture render a specific belief zealous and relevant or benign. The dialogue (conversations) that takes place in the story could've easily been thrown out because just about every conversation was smalltalk (who cares?).
   
   Gardens of Water was not a story that HAD to be written, that the world needed to hear. It was not daring, innovative, or even that well-written. Drew spent five years writing it. Maybe he should've spent seven, like Junot Diaz, and put out something as touching, poetic and worthy as The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao.

5 comments about Lost History: The Enduring Legacy of Muslim Scientists, Thinkers, and Artists.

1. Like finding a precious gem in the middle of a pile of debris, I consider this book as much of a rare find in this age. Truly honest and well-researched, it compiles a mind-bewildering amount of detail and information about everything from Islamic history to scientific advancements of the Middle Ages through political conditions of pre-modern Europe. It is written in such a fluid, eloquent style that Morgan has become one of my favorite authors, and I hope to find more of his work.
   
   I have researched the history of development of the arts and letters and science informally and will start to pursue it academically, so I can say about this work that it is as concise and comprehensive a compilation as any I have come across. George Sarton, a Harvard professor of the 1940's, has written 5 volumes on this subject, and yet, Morgan's analysis is more insightful. For instance, Sarton notes the ethnicity behind each and every Muslim scholar or scientist of other faith in the Islamic world who accomplished a great feat. Was he an Arab or a Persian or a Christian or a Jew? Sarton asks of each, in trying to establish that in many instances Jewish or Christian or non-Arab scholars achieved success on their own, thereby downplaying the significance of the Islamic Renaissance as a whole. Morgan makes the point that multi-ethnicity was exactly the source of the Islamic civilization's success: the multiplicity of people of faiths who lived harmoniously and collaborated on projects of translation and learning was a mark of the Muslim golden age's tolerance and pluralism.
   
   So while other historians emphasize the Muslim's material accomplishments in medieval times, they miss the Islamic contribution of tolerance and peace. Morgan does not. From p. 136 of Lost History: "By the ninth and tenth centuries, the Jewish intellectual communities and economies of Muslim Spain, in cities like Cordoba, Seville, and Toledo, are at their peak. Not only have Jews risen to hold the second highest political position in the realm, under Hasdai ibn Shaprut working for Caliph Abd Al-Rahman III; they are also producing their own rich literature, music, philosophy, and scientific thought, sometimes independently, sometimes in collaboration with those of other faiths."
   
   Morgan's precision in unfolding the history of the Muslims from one era to another and from one glorious center of learning to another (Baghdad to Cordoba, or Damascus to Cairo) does not lose the reader or leave him/her bogged down in dates. His narration flows effortlessly and takes you on an awe-inspiring ride. Though one reviewer noted that Morgan over-reaches when he tries to write of scholars' past thoughts (such as Ibn Sina), I think he is using a fictive element (3rd person omniscient) for a good reason. He is trying to evoke a recognition in the Western mind of what another culture has experienced. It is just one technique he uses in making us understand another peoples by walking in their shoes. He is a literary genius, and I cannot hold him to task for employing every means to bridge these two (currently) very remote cultures.
   
   I hope there are other gems in the making, such as this one. It is a pleasure to read a work that is so humble and honest that it can give credit where ever it is due - even to other cultures or civilizations - rather than downplaying their historic importance.



2. This is amateur history, written by an amateur. Try reading several centuries of yellow pages, and you get the texture of this opus. Unorganized, with supposedly intriguing vignettes setting the pace. The best you can hope for is that the paper is biodegradable.
   Roger L. Putnam, Jr.



3. Without a doubt one of the best books I have read in years. No only does it shed light over the civilization that brought the world great minds who enlightened us with new ideas but the book also sheds light on the largely blind mind of the Western reader about the people who are now sadly labeled terrorist by default.



4. I was extremely disappointed in this book because of it's lack of sophistication. The author seemed to feel the need to write in a fictitious style and in the present tense. This book is intended for people with very little or no background in history or Islamic civilization. It is not at all academic and it is VERY easy to read.



5. I had to read this for my class in College and didn't think it would be good but it does a great job talking about the history as well as comparing it to recent times. Certainly made the class much more enjoyable having to reference a good book such as this time.

5 comments about Does My Head Look Big In This?.

1. Does My Head Look Big in This? is one of the best books I have ever read in my entire life. The author does a wonderful job of making one young woman's voice loud, clear, and interesting. Throughout the entire novel, Amal is certain of who she is and what she believes in; she does not let anyone persuade her to change her mind about wearing the hijab. There is no indication that the hijab is simply a piece of material. Rather, the hijab allows Amal to grow so much as a person and deepen her faith. Although this novel is about a Muslim girl, anyone can relate to it. The other characters in the novel, from all walks of life, are very much the same as Amal and all deal with difficult situations.
   I feel that I have learned more about the culture and religion, and the distinctions between the two. It is very evident that Leila's mother goes by what was done in her village and not textbook Islam. Likewise, Mrs. Vaselli takes what she has learned from her little town in Greece and does not behave in a manner that true Christians do.
   There are people like Tia, Claire, and Rita in almost every high school. It is very unfortunate, but it is true. Therefore, I think that many girls can relate to how it feels to have people make fun of you and say mean comments about you to your face and behind your back.
   Comedy is a great method to use when dealing with those in marginalized groups. I do not feel as if the author made this book into a joke at all; however, she did allow readers to become interested and engaged in it because of the comedy used. Whenever a person can smile or laugh, tension is reduced. Above all, this novel is inspiring, encouraging, and interesting. If you are a boy, girl, teenager, man, woman, Muslim, Christian, Jehovah Witness, American, Austrailian, or Arab, you will truly enjoy this book. In other words, all people will enjoy Does My Head Look Big in This? because the author is very skillful and presents a powerful and moving argument in the form of a story.



2. This book is excellent!! The author does a wonderful job of giving western readers the opportunity to learn and become more familiar with the Islamic women culture. In this book the author links humanity together by inspiring courage in us to deal with social pressures and taking a stand for our beliefs. The fact that this book is set in a adolescent envoirnment revitilzes teenage values. Many people can benefit from the principals Amal beleives in, she is a rock that keeps her friends afloat. The different characters in the book are the sprinkles on the cake, they are key additions in which we turn the page and read on.



3. I thought this was a great book! I know there was a review above that stated that the author was just trying to prove that the hijab is just a piece of material and compared it to saying the cross is just like two sticks. I disagree. I believe that the author was only trying to say that Amal shouldn't be judged negatively because of a piece of material but she wasn't minimizing the importance of the hijab and the deep connection and faithfulness Amal felt with wearing it. I believe Amal is changed by wearing the hijab. She not only makes the strong decision to become a "full timer" and changes her outward appearance but I also saw an inward change as well. She realizes her strong relationship with God and strengthens her spirituality. Amal prays five times a day during school, stays strong during the tough Ramadan, endures much criticism due to the hijab, and stays true to her principles throughout the novel, especially not giving in to her crush on Adam. I also appreciated the relatable characters in the story. Her friends all had their own story and problems which made it relatable to many readers. I loved Amal's mothers constant kindness despite the cruelty of Mrs. Vaselli. I was touched by the profound impact Amal ended up having on Mrs. Vaselli's life. Amal really began to understand all the pain behind the woman's mean nature and helped her to overcome her struggles and ultimately, find some happiness again. We learned in my Arab Women's Literature class that Amal means hope and I truly believe that hope is what she gave to this old, stubborn, Christian woman. I also enjoyed the comedy in the book immensely. I believe that the author utilized a comedic nature throughout the novel to keep our interest. Amal was funny yet she kept a serious purpose. She was relatable and respectable. As a non-muslim young woman, I feel I learned a lot about her culture and religion. You could see throughout the story the difference between the true religion and a misinterpreted culture as well. Leila's mother was from an old village in Egypt and was stuck in what she believed were the traditional ways. Amal clearly states that Leila's mother could not even read the Qu'ran for herself. Similarly, Amal shows great disgust for the terrorists who are referred to as Muslims when they apparently do not demonstrate any of the teachings of her religion. Overall, I think it's clear that I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and the many insights it had to offer. I would recommend it to many. :-)



4. Randa Abdel-Fattah has written a breezy, light-hearted, entertaining book on first glance - excellent! But on deeper reading - her deft touch on serious issues of teen acceptance, peer pressure, first cruch, culture vs. religion underscore the value of this book for young adults, both Muslims & non-Muslims alike.
   
   Her clever ability to weave interesting lessons about Islam (& Catholicism & Judaism too) was mesmerizing. The characters were well-developed - as the story progresses, you find yourself involved in their lives & actually rooting for their success. This book is the perfect gift for that teen or teenager at heart!
   
   As the co-author of The American Muslim Teenager's Handbook- I know firsthand the challenges of writing for the Young Adult audience, whether they are Muslim or just curious about Islam, it's wonderful to see more books on this timely subject - thank you!



5. This book offers a timely look at the life of a Muslim teen struggling to live her life according to her religion while she is surrounded by prejudice and ignorance. Luckily, the author peppers the book with humor, so it never gets too depressing or heavy-handed.
   
   While I thought this book was cute and a very good effort by a first-time novelist, there were a couple issues. The dialogue wasn't always as realistic as it could have been, and some characters seemed created solely to give the author an opportunity to present the reader with another issue facing Muslims. While the latter could occassionally cause the book to come across as a tad preachy, overall, this was an enjoyable read that I would recommend to anyone interested in a different perspective on current affairs. I think this author's future novels will be even better, and I look forward to seeing more from her.

5 comments about Salonica, City of Ghosts: Christians, Muslims and Jews 1430-1950.

1. I enjoyed this book. It is informative not only about Thessaloníki but also the overall region, including the Balkans and Ottoman empire. The author concentrates on the Ottoman period, but the primary focus of the book is how the relationship and conflict between the three religions shaped this dynamic region over time. It was interesting to read how these three groups, that are now antagonistic, lived somewhat peaceably through most of the city's history. In addition, this book gave a fair representation of the agonizing effects from the forced migrations of much of the population and also the Holocaust.
   
   The style of the book is a little different than most histories in that it is not purely chronological. The author discusses a particular group over time, then within the same section, will "rewind" to cover another group that existed around the same period. In retrospect, I think this style makes sense as it allows a thorough analysis of each group; however, it would have been beneficial to have been warned in the introduction or forward that this style would be employed.
   
   Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone that wants to understand more about this city, Greece, and the Ottoman and Byzantine empires, as well as the history of these three religions.



2. Just started reading this book. It is still a good promise...



3. The book has a couple of slow passages, but overall Mazower offers a very lively account of Salonica since Ottoman times. You're not just reading about Salonica, but also the organization of the Ottoman empire, the history of the Sefardim Jews, diplomatic customs and modern Balkan history.



4. I lived in Thessaloniki as an exchange student in 1980. I wish that this book had bee available for me to realize the historic gems around every corner of my favorite city at that time. Mazower's book opens up the reasons for its (the city's) being and why it was and is so important. People of every religion, or none, will be fascinated by its political turmoil and intrigues, and visitors today can walk the same roads and shop in the same marketplaces as those who went before them, thousands of years ago.
   I have purchased this book several times and keep giving it away to other Thessalonians and people who love Thessaloniki as much as I.



5. The writer is living out quite a lot of important information.
   Book is biased and incorrect.
   Should check historical documents, especially New York Times archives about who exactly lived in Salonica in that time.
   It is correct that after the Balkan wars, a large Greek population moved in into this region, but what happened to the people that use to live there before the Balkan Wars?

5 comments about The Tent of Abraham: Stories of Hope and Peace for Jews, Christians, and Muslims.

1. The Tent of Abraham presents a vision of hope: what Jews, Christians and Muslims can do for a mutual understanding of the essence that binds these three great religions in Abraham. This book is especially clutching in showing the reader how women, mothers caught up in the madness of war, can see more clearly than politicians, that our humanity and our compassion should inform us that war can never be a satisfactory solution to any human need. People of all faiths should read this book.



2. The story of Father Abraham is shared by Jews, Christians & Muslims. The fac that the two sons Issac & Ishamel reconcile in order to honor their Father in death provides a basis for Peace if we will make this our story.



3. The book provides a good historical background of the three major religious movements. As a Christian, I learned a great deal more about the foundations of both the Jewish and Muslim faiths. It was helpful to my understanding of circumstances as they exist today.



4. This is a most important book, and I highly recommend it. The combination of a Christian Sister, a Rabbi and a Sufi Murshid discussing their views of Abraham and Sarah's lives/tent from an in-depth perspective offers a model for peace and discussion that can be used in Churches, Mosques and Synagogues around the world.
   
   The authors present a discussion and model for deeper discourse that offers much hope in our seriously troubled world. The following Sura quoted from the Qur'an on page 133 of The Tent of Abraham highlights its message:
   
   "So turn your face and purpose towards the priordial religion of the upright, the hanif, the nature innately formed by the One Reality in which the One created humanity. Let there be no change in this work created by the One. This religion is self-subsisting, the standard, always resurrecting itself. But most among humanity do not understand. Turn to and remain conscious only of the One, remaining constantly in prayer. Don't deify anything else in yor life, not concepts or beliefs. Don't divide yourselves into sects that contratulate themselves on their own ideas (translation of Sura 30:30-32).
   
   We are all part of one human family who simply need to realize our divine Unity. Thank you Sr. Joan Chittister, Rabbi Waskow and Murshid Saadi for such a heartful book.
   
   Sharon G. Mijares, Ph.D.
   Primary author of The Root of All Evil: An Exposition of Prejudice, Fundamentalism and Gender Imbalance.



5. Please notice the reading regarding Abraham receiving the three travellers is this Sunday's First Reading in the Roman Catholic liturgy, followed by the Gospel Reading regarding the complementary hospitality of Mary and Martha.
   
   And if you find that representation as bar joke unappealing, let us read it like Dante: A nun, a rabbi and a Muslim awoke in the midstream of their lives to discover themselves in a dark woods of war and danger, of fear and cruelty, and fled back to the welcoming refuge of Abraham's tent.
   
   Or Biblically: Abram looked out from his tent and saw three strangers approaching: A Rabbi, a Muslim and a nun. Abram ran out to prostrate himself at their feet and beg them to come into his tent to rest and to eat and to pray together. They told him to call himself Abraham and his wife Sarah. And the rest is our history.
   
   An interesting aspect of this recent book is that it reads best from the back to the front. Thus alone do we discover the unmentioned and secret author, the Rabbi Phyllis Berman, sharing her secret story, treasured for ages in secret among Hebrew women, of the profound love, alliance, solidarity and companionship of Hagar and Sarai, and thus of all the peoples engendered by Abraham: The Judeo-christian and Islam, an inheritance more numerous than the grains of sand by the sea and the stars at night.
   
   The leaves high at the top of a mighty oak tree might know only their separation, might feel only their beating one another in the powerful winds that pass. Only by looking way back may they perceive that they in fact spring from the one thick and solid trunk and are in fact children of the one Father.
   
   Other important books to read in this regard were written by the Islamic scholar and Roman Catholic Deacon, George Dardess, in particular his great Do We Worship the Same God?: Comparing the Bible And the Qur'an as well as his Meeting Islam: A Guide For Christians (A Many Mansions Book).
   
   Truly this present volume is a monument necessary for our needlessly divided times which profit no one but the war mongers and munitions makers. By this great cornerstone may we rebuild the great kingdom of peace and compassion which our One God commanded, to which our One God guides us, the thirst for which our One God fills our Spirit.
   
   This book serves well for Lectio Divina, including the remarkable Forward by Karen Armstrong, who reminds us that Abraham, in receiving the Three Strangers into his Tent, receives God. "The act of practical compassion led directly to a divine encounter." She goes on: " . . .it expresses a religious truth found in all the major traditions: it is compassion, not righteousness and doctrinal certainty, that leads us into the presence of what monotheists call God, . . ."
   
   Recall here that the Latin roots of our word religion indicate a binding back together again, to ourselves, to one another, to God. Religion therefore ties us all together in one family, one humanity, united by God. Religion explicitly does not permit us to kill one another, not even in the name of God, but to love one another.
   
   Truly this book is far too profound and important and prophetic for our times for me to attempt a superficial summary here. This is a book to live with, and to awaken by to the welcoming fact that we all dwell within the generous tent of Abraham. This book comes recommended by several authoritative sources, including Tikkum, which writes, "This book will open your eyes to the possibilities of collaborative work between our traditions, and is a must read for those doing interfaith peacework."
   
   Our duty as believers is to do interpersonal peacework. Blessed are the Peacemakers. Do for others what you want them to do for you. Read this book and live it, please, for the sake of our children and their children.
   
   Late last year Our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI, paused in silent prayer inside Turkey's Blue Mosque, breathing our unity of Faith. May we follow faithfully his holy example.
   
   And what a joy and a relief to read in this context the great Benedictine Sister Joan Chittister, still strong and prophetic. I also strongly recommend her The Rule of Benedict: Insights for the Ages (Crossroad Spiritual Legacy Series). It was she who led me to this Tent of Abraham, now available in paperback and important for us to study carefully and prayerfully today.

5 comments about A Vanished World: Muslims, Christians, and Jews in Medieval Spain.

1. A first class read for any history buff. Right up there with 'The Ornament of the World' by Maria Rosa Menocal.



2. Chris Lowney resurrects with much brio the fascinating history of Medieval Spain, which became the only Islamic state that ever prospered in mainland Europe for more than seven centuries. After a "blitzkrieg" military campaign, Muslim conquerors hailing from North Africa rolled back Christian rule on most of the Iberian Peninsula in 711 C.E. Christian rulers, who were understandably resentful of this occupation, launched their Reconquista from the north of the peninsula after infighting started weakening al-Andalus (the Arabic name for the Muslim-ruled part of Spain) in the eleventh century C.E. Al-Andalus disintegrated itself into more than two dozen rivaling small kingdoms by the 1030s C.E that over time became easy picks for united Christian conquerors. This rivalry among these kingdoms was also a blessing in disguise.
   
   To his credit, Lowney acknowledges and emphasizes the significant contributions of al-Andalus to transition the rest of Europe out of the Dark Ages and into the Renaissance. Without Islam, much western wisdom from the Antiquity would have been lost forever following the disintegration of the Roman Empire in the West. Furthermore, Medieval Spain became the conduit for bringing the best that the Islamic world had to offer to mostly backward Europeans. Cosmopolis such as Seville, Cordoba, Toledo, and Granada were the cities on the hill economically, culturally, scientifically, and religiously. The architecture of the older parts of these urban centers still reflects this past greatness.
   
   Despite their differences, Medieval Spaniards showed for a time a tolerance for each other's religious and cultural background that remains a marvel to a world plagued by intolerance and obscurantism. Outstanding twelfth-century theologians such as the Jewish Moses Maimonides and the Muslim Ibn Rushd Averroes went as far as to subject their respective religions to rationality. Shias and Sunnis in Modern Iraq, especially in Baghdad, have much to learn from this peaceful religious coexistence. Obscurantism and intolerance were the perfect ingredients for the disastrous recipe that Medieval Spain itself ended up swallowing after the completion of the Reconquista.
   
   With the fall of the Kingdom of Granada in 1491 C.E., the sole remaining Muslim territory in the peninsula, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella completed the Reconquista of Medieval Spain. They did not waste much time to impose Christianity on all their subjects. King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella gave their Jewish and Muslim subjects little time to either convert to Christianity or leave most of their possessions behind them and leave Spain forever. The discovery of the New World and its riches bought Spain some time. After Catholic Spain passed by its zenith, it could no longer count on the genius of its former Jewish and Muslim subjects who along Christians had contributed to the greatness of Medieval Spain. Unsurprisingly, Catholic Spain became an increasingly troubled and weak state that only rebounded from its backwardness in the second half of the 20th century C.E.



3. The history of Spain between 711 (the date of the Muslim invasion of the Iberian peninsula) and 1492 (when the moors were finally vanquished and the spanish crown got back total control of what is today Spain; coincidentally this was the same year Columbus reached the Americas and Jews were expelled from Spain) is fascinating in itself. This book is kind of interesting, but it delivers less than what it promises. If you know some of the history before reading this book, you will not learn a lot from it. Moreover, it is sometimes overly credulous with its sources. One of the problems appears when you see that all the bibliography is in English; Lowney clearly doesn't speak either Spanish or Arabic, so the book is essentially second hand retelling of previous books. There is no original material here. Lowney is identified in the book as a former Jesuit priest, but he seems prejudiced against Christians, always comparing their supposed backwardness with the Muslims' supposed tolerance and brilliance. Look, if Christians were able to reconquer Spain after almost eight centuries, they must have done something right. Still, the book is not totally without interest, especially as an introduction to the subject.



4. This book is a great starting point in terms of understanding medieval Spain and appreciating the Iberian contribution to broader European enlightenment. Aptly subtitled 'Medieval Spain's Golden Age of Enlightenment', Chris Lowney draws us into the accomplishments of Muslims, Christians and Jews over seven centuries.
   
   Whether you choose to read this book as an historical statement of past accomplishments, or as a sign of hope for a more co-operative future, it provides a wonderful view of the golden age of the Iberian peninsula.
   
   The book has a wealth of notes and suggested readings for those who would like to obtain more information about specific events or achievements.
   
   Highly recommended to those interested in learning more about medieval Spain as well as those looking for instances of shared learning.
   
   Jennifer Cameron-Smith



5. A vanished world tells the true story of the medival times where Muslims, Jews and Christians lived together in peace and harmony. This was a time of religeous tolerance.

5 comments about American Jihad: The Terrorists Living Among Us.

1. This is a great book; an eye opener. As a antiterrorism program manager with the U.S. Military Police I have witnessed the chilling issues as stated in the book. Unfortunately, political correctness stops action against those who use America's freedoms against her.



2. The book was informative. Everyone needs to read it. Mr. Emerson has his facts and presents them in a way we all need to think about.



3. An awesome very up to date information. An easy reed, well writtten book explaining in detail of how JIHAD works within our (USA) borders. It brings to light what is actualy happening right now!



4. This book was a good reader, it was very informative and an real eye open'er! Apparently, there are forces within our own government that want to see our demised! "A must Read"



5. This book will make your blood run cold. We should all take our heads out of the sand and read this one. The writing is well done, although the foreign names can get kind of tedious but that is no fault of the author.

5 comments about Why We Left Islam: Former Muslims Speak Out.

1. "Why we left Islam, former Muslims speak out" gives the impression that Muslims don't criticize their faith because they love it but because they are afraid of it.
   
   Any decent human being who is impartial would see through the author's bias in trying to recycle the Muslims are incapable of thinking for themselves age-old canard.
   
   The twenty five ex-Muslim's profile doesn't seem to add up or can be independently verified. It also seems their words match often af if they were coached to say exactly what the author wanted. Keep searching this book was not satisfying at all.



2. This book consists of articles written by people who have been on both the giving and the receiving end of Islam. Only they can truly describe the inner workings of this unforgiving religion. The authors have relied on several native Islam believers who were brought up in this religion and who witnessed the hate that it espouses. From the stated hypocrisy that women are equal to the unmitigated hate that Muslims carry for non believers, this book describes the personal pain that each author underwent in his/her journey away from hatred and into love.
   
   Some reviewers have labeled this book as a work of neocons and reactionaries. This is untrue. It has nothing to do with American politics and all to do with the dealing of religious hate and the intolerance of freedom. Those who describe this work as politically motivated in favor of the Right are both naive and self deluding for its really a collection of articles covering the subjects of courage under fire and a struggle to escape the demons of intolerance and hate.
   
   We,as Americans, have it easy compared to the 23 individuals in this book. We take for granted our freedom and find it hard to believe that these stories are true. But true they are, and after having read this book you'll want to pass it on to others. They found freedom in leaving Islam and you'll find the truth about it within its pages.



3. Why We Left Islam: Former Muslims Speak Out was not what I had expected it to be. The book itself is a collection of first-person accounts from individuals who, in some capacity or another, were previously involved in the Muslim religious community. I expected a comprehensive, globalised, overview of the atrocities perpetuated by Islam the world over; essentially, a macro-view of Islam's role in world politics, coupled with discussion of individual experiences in the religion and ideology.
   
   There are about twenty individual accounts. Some are written better than others; the introductory five are really the most well-written in the entire book. The editing can be a little dodgey, but the overall writing quality is good.
   
   It is necessary to contextualize my review, because my personal politics dictate to me how I feel about this book. As a self-identifying atheist, I am comfortable with directly addressing the uglier aspects of religious and theological thought.
   
   This is very much a book where one finds what one is looking for: individuals who are stringently anti-Islamicization are going to find more fodder for their beliefs, while those who belief Muslims are marginalized will find support for that, too.
   
   Upon its release, Why We Left Islam was regarded as extremely controversial, because all of the testimonies brought forth are less than favorable. Most recount sheer barbarism in the name the religion: excessive misogyny, physical abuse, and sheer terror are all consistently perpetuated upon the writers. Each experience in the book is written by separate individuals, yet they maintain the same themes: subjugation of women, tunnel-visioned ignorance, and blind hatred towards the West.
   
   Thoughtfully approaching this book is absolutely imperative. It is an important book to read, because it presents a different viewpoint than is generally propagated in Western media outlets. There is a lot of difficulty, particularly in our 'free' society, in critically exploring faith (Islam, particularly, in light of the 'touchiness' to its links with global terrorism)
   
   Certainly, the threat to Western values of freedom (of speech, thought, belief, religion, conduct (generally), etc,) are clearly endangered by the influx of Islamic values into Western Europe (and to a lesser extent, America). Much like Pim Fortuyn's politics, "tolerating the intolerant" presents a very dangerous situation. How can European and American countries compromise prized values, in an attempt to 'tolerate' a religion that will not rest until the rest of the world is converted, subjugated, or killed? ...There aren't easy answers to the issues that arise in multicultural societies, and the problems are only going to increase in the coming years.
   
   Notably, too, is that WND (WorldNetDaily) books published this collection of essays. WND is known for being a conservative news site, and they have published numerous other books exploring the 'darker' elements of Islam. The book is critical of Islam, but such criticism is not without merit. Clearly the editors of this book are aware how dangerous it is to promote and release such a title. Similarly-written books about Christianity, Judaism, etc, do not face the violent backlash that this book has driven.



4. This book should be required reading in all middle and high schools in the United States and every member of Congress.



5. With the recent rise of radical Islam, it's no surprise that some ex-Muslims have gotten fed up with their faith. "Why We Left Islam: Former Muslims Speak Out" looks at these rebels, who speak with great detail about why they departed their ancestral faith. An examination of how Islam as a whole is in serious need of a reformation to purge the fundamentalists doing so much damage to it, "Why We Left Islam: Former Muslims Speak Out" is a seminal contribution to any community library religion collection.

5 comments about Infiltration: How Muslim Spies and Subversives have Penetrated Washington.

1. "Some of the most respected leaders of the Muslim community in America--the so-called "moderates" . . . are harboring a secret dream about the future of American culture." (p. xi) In the tradition of old-fashion journalism, this book names names and gives facts and figures, quotes exactly the passages you need to know.
   
   The first Part gives the particulars on the "politically correct suicide" guiding American Democrat AND Republican policies at the present time, and how Islamists are using American institutions to undermine America.
   
   Part II points out exactly where and how the Islamists have infiltrated the U. S. government. Part III details the role of the Islamic religious institutions in furthering terrorism. Part IV gives you the full story of Islamic infiltration of U. S. law enforcement, particularly the FBI.
   
   The fifth Part provides some surprising information of Islamic infiltration of the U. S. military. Part VI details the infiltration of corporations. The last Part gives specific information about Islamic influence at the White House and the Department of Homeland "Insecurity".
   
   The book, of course, does not try to cover everything you need to know about the Islamic threat; and significantly, it does not attempt to provide any solutions or to tell you why the common-sense and obvious solutions that come to mind will not be adopted. The whole mind-set that forms the foundation for all these problems is not delved into. For a book that does go into this in great detail and also shows the other problems that are supporting this terrorist infiltration, see While America Sleeps: How Islam, Immigration and Indoctrination Are Destroying America From Within.



2. Excellent book that should be required reading for every American, especially those elected representatives in Washington who still believe that Islam is a religion of peace! Mr. President!!!!
   
   However, I would like to correct two inaccuracies in Mr. Sperry's book:
   
   1. On page 208 he states that, "Sgt Ali Mohamed joined the U.S. military and the next year, rising to the position of sergeant with the Army's Special Forces..."
   
   2. On page 209 he states that, " The Green Beret now sits in prison."
   
   To set the record straight, Ali Mohamed was not a Special Forces Green Beret! Ali Mohamed was assigned to a Special Forces unit and served as a "supply clerk" (and later as an instructor) in a support capacity only.
   
   In order to qualify as a Special Forces Green Beret (to wear the Special Forces shoulder Tab), one must successfully complete a regiment of required Special Forces training leading up to and including the Special Forces Qualification Course (Q-Course). Ali Mohamed never received any such training and never attended or graduated from the Special Forces Q-Course. Moreover, upon completion of the Q-Course, a Special Forces soldier is awarded a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) identifier of 18 Series (e.g. 18A, 18E, 18D, 18C, 18B) and authorized to wear the SF Shoulder Tab. Special Forces Warrant Officers hold the MOS of 180A.
   
   Ali Mohamed never had any SF training, did not attend the Q-Course, was not awarded an 18 Series MOS, and was not authorized to wear the SF Shoulder Tab. In short, he was NOT a Green Beret!
   
   This may seem like a small point, but I can assure you that to those who have earned the Green Beret it is not.
   
   Concerned



3. I lived in northern Virginia and everything Paul Sperry says is the truth. This book is a wake up call for all Americans.When the world trade center was attacked Muslems in the nearby falls church area were heard cheering,this is a fact not fiction.Anyone that is so stupid to believe that Mr Sperry is a racist is in my opinion an idiot.I worked in falls church and believe me the infiltration is a terrorist success story. As Americans we need to realize this threat is real.They are very patient and we are not.I will personally make this book available to everyone I know.



4. If you believe the 'official' version of events,if your a racist,hatefilled idiot,this book is for you. Muslims are the newest of America's "boogeymen". I do not reccommend this 'book' for anyone with a functioning brain.



5. I was aware of the problems Europe is having integrating Muslim immigrants and the rapidly changing demographics. But until this book, I did not fully grasp the failure of the US Government to confront the problem of integrating a rapidly growing immigrant Muslim Theocracy into a democratic society. The book was well researched and leaves the reader with a grave concern for the future of our children. The author has made the case that our political leadership is failing the American people. I found Chapter 5, The Top Ten Myths of Islam profound. These myths are not understood by a public who seems more prone to trust the politically correct rhetoric espoused by politicians courting votes. It's a pity this threat is not discussed by those running for office. One can only wonder if our leaders have any knowledge of Islam and its tenants. The author has persuasively articulated that our leadership believes political correctness outweighs Islamic intolerance and the danger it presents to society. Sadly, it will take another catastrophe before we are able to fully unleash our law enforcement and intelligence resources to confront not a war on terror but Islamic extremism.

5 comments about Acts of Faith: The Story of an American Muslim, the Struggle for the Soul of aGeneration.

1. I finished this book the week before CNN began to air their three night special entitled "God's Warriors." If you haven't made time to watch God's Warriors for the 6 hour duration, you should. If you haven't read Eboo Patel's book, Acts of Faith - The Story of an American Muslim, the Struggle for the Soul of a Generation,you must.
   
   Religious fundamentalism continues to be the spawning grounds for extremism that continues to ravage the soul of mankind. It is through the efforts of Eboo Patel and the InterFaith Youth Core (www.IFYC.org), that young adults from all faith persuasions are challenged to learn to live with one another, in collaborative harmony.
   
   The book recounts Patel's personal struggle with forging and cherishing his Muslim identity and faith, as an American, and then launching the InterFaith Youth Core as his vehicle for creating pluralistic understanding within the next generation of young adults who will become the leaders of our world. This book is about how one man decided to become part of the international interfaith youth movement.
   
   As Patel says, "In a world where the forces that seek to divide us are strong, I came to one conclusion: We have to save each other. It's the only way to save ourselves." P. 180
   
   This book chronicles how Eboo Patel came to participate in the movement of religious pluralism. In his own words, "Movements re-create the world. A movement is a growing group of people who believe so deeply in a new possibility that they participate in making it a reality. They won't all meet. They won't even know everybody else's names. But somehow, they all have the feeling that people on the other side of the city or country or the world believe in the same idea, burn with the same passion, and are taking risks for the same dream." P. 181.
   
   What's the meaning of this term "pluralism" from Patel's standpoint? He writes, "To see the other side, to defend another people, not despite your tradition but because of it, is the heart of pluralism." P. 179.
   
   In a world threatened and fractured by the isolationist requirements of religious fundamentalism and extremism, pluralism possesses the essential antidote. In Patels' words:
   
   "America is a nation that has constantly been rejuvenated by immigrants. For centuries, they have added new notes to the American song." P. 176.
   
   "The waters of faith, says one scholar, are so clear that they pick up the colors of the rocks they flow over." P. 176
   
   "Violence committed in the name of a religion is really violence emanating from the heart of a particular interpreter." P. 141.
   
   "Apartheid in South Africa was a violation of the spiritual principles of human togetherness." P. 116.
   
   In an interview with the Dalai Lama, he said: "Religions must dialogue, but even more, they must come together to serve others. Service is the most important. And common values, finding common values between different religions. And as you study the other religions, you must learn more about your own and believe more in your own." P. 96.
   
   "I realized that it was precisely because of America's glaring imperfections that I should seek to participate in its progress, carve a place in its promise, and play a role in its possibility. And at its heart and at its best, America was about pluralism." P. 89.
   
   A wonderful book. A guy I would like to meet. Consider joining Eboo and the Interfaith Youth Core at their convention in Chicago this fall entitled "Crossing The Faith Line" October 28th - 30th 2007
   
   Bill Dahl
   Author, Creator, Editor
   http://www.ThePorpoiseDivingLife.com



2. Patel warmly and understandably offers a solution to genuinely change the world - save it if you will!



3. I loved reading this book - couldn't put it down! I heard Eboo Patel speak at a Book Session in Chicago and he's really inspirational! I could relate to so many diff. things in his book. I've purchased several copies and distributed to friends and family! Great booK!



4. As the Director of the Center for Global Engagement at Northwestern University, I am always on the look out for books that help young people make sense of their place in the world and their potential to create meaningful change.
   
   What I felt the strongest connection to in Acts of Faith was Eboo's sense - which I felt throughout the book - that by exploring the intersection of one's own story and the legacy or history of the stories of which it is a part, each of us might better understand the potential of our own moment. Even more, each of us might be better able to access that potential and make it real.
   
   What I believe Eboo has come across - in this book and with IFYC more widely - is nothing less than a deep truth of human nature - that not only does our sense of self impact our impact on the world, but that by working to strengthen, round out and challenge that sense of self, we better enable everyone to contribute their unique assets, potentials, and perspectives to improving our shared future.
   
   What I've better come to understand after reading this is that what Patel calls "pluralism", the Center for Global Engagement calls "collaboration across borders," but it amounts to the same thing: a deep belief in the potential of the space we all share to make of this world all that it can be.
   
   Highly recommended for the young social entrepreneur, volunteer, or humanitarian on your list!



5. ACTS OF FAITH: THE STORY OF AN AMERICAN MUSLIM, THE STRUGGLE FOR THE SOUL OF A GENERATION tells of the author's coming of age and understanding of religious pluralism. He grew up outside of Chicago and was the subject of racist bullying and Muslim hatred - but learned in college what was at the root of prejudice. ACTS OF FAITH charts his ability to move beyond hate to deeper messages and provides inspiration for all, making it a special pick for any collection strong in spirituality or in Middle East politics and prejudices.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch