Hello.

[Wordie]

I'm interested in learning more about Islam. I had several Muslim friends when I was at the university, but that was quite a long time ago (we've lost touch now). Although we discussed religion a bit, I don't believe I really have a good grasp on the faith.

I tried taking out a copy of the Koran from the library, but I'm afraid I didn't understand it. Could anyone suggest a good general book for someone interested in understanding Islam? I'm really not intending to convert, but I would like to know more.

Thanks very much and best wishes at Eid al-Adha.

[plasticwidow]

1. A Good Recommendation...

Hello Wordie. A good book that I had bought at B. Dalton Booksellers, which doesn't sound as good as it is, is "The Complete Idiots Guide to Understanding Islam" by Yahiya Emerick (copyright 2002 by Yahiya (J.A.) Emerick). It's in paperback version (softback). At the time I bought it for $18.00 U.S. Dollars, but right now at Amazon.com there are several copies being sold, new and used, for as low as $4.00. It was my first book on Islam and I still have it.

It is a white book with orange borders and spine, and not to be confused with the Yellow Book. Its about the size of a standard 8.5 by 11.0 inch paper and about 2 inches thick. It is very well written actually and gives a great overview of Islam, its history, a complete introduction of the principles, facts and fallacies about the religion and insights on how Islam relates to both Judaism and Christianity. Plenty of pictures, a sprinkling of humor, and some interesting tidbits as well.

Peace to you and I hope you find much enjoyment and enlightenment.
Jean

[Wordie]

2. Thank you very much, plasticwidow. I'll look for it. eom

[PsychoDad]

3. Eid Mubarak !

:hi:

The book already mentioned, Islam for Dummies, is pretty good.

Here is a good link to a number of articles:
http://www.islamonline.net/english/introducingislam/index.shtml


If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. :)

Peace, and a blessed Eid.

[Book Lover]

4. The Dummies and Idiot's books are different

Forgive the intrusion, but I worked for "...for Dummies" for years, and would like to point out that the "Dummies" and "Idiot's" book are published by different publishers and certainly have different authors. Myself, not being Muslim, can only recommend the "Idiot's" book over the "Dummies" due to my experience in publishing.

[Wordie]

5. Shukran, PsychoDad!

I just took a quick look at that site - it looks quite informative, and I plan to study it further. I haven't yet had a chance to try to find the book that was recommended earlier, but the "Idiot's" and "Dummies" books do seem pretty good in general, so that's probably a good place for me to start.

Thank you again for the information. I send you best wishes at Eid, too. (Please forgive what is probably awkward phrasing of the wish on my part.)