Islam: What Non-Muslims Should Know, Revised & Expanded Edition

The sub-title of this book, "What Non-Muslims Should Know" is what captured my attention. In the post-9/11 world where tolerance is threatened and there seems to be pervasive hatred simmering for what we don't understand, author Kaltner supplies what he promises. He provides a perspective that dwells on what Islam means, and has meant, historically to its followers and its place politically to the present. "Questions for Discussion" are included after each of the six chapters, making it useful as a textbook as well as a way to dwell on the material. I found "Islam" enlightening and would recommend it highly.

This is not a bad choice although I would rather prefer "Idiot's guide to Understanding Islam." by Emerick. It is an excellent book for non-Muslims.Secondly, contrary to the review made below, Islam did abolish slavery using a very clever system. It did not suddenly prohibit slavery since the Quran is a very realistic book. It would be extremely difficult to abolish all slavery at once. Therefore, the Quran in a brilliant maneuver gradually abolished it by giving mothers and thier new born children complete freedom. BY this, little by little, slavery was soon abolished and those Muslims who chose to enslave were clearly against the laws.Critics tend to act as if the Bible itself stictly forbids slavery. The Quran treats freeing a slave as one of the best deeds to do in one's life. Prophet Muhammad(pbuh) and his companion, Abu Bakr, used thier own money to buy slaves and then subsequently free them. This idea that "oh Islam encourages slavery" is just another misconception intentionally brought out by self-centered egomaniacs who are hellbent on distorting the truth.Anyway getting back to the book. It does feature some important aspects of Islam. But doubt whether this, of all books, would be the most recommended. Get either "The complete idiot's guide to Understand Islam" or "Islam: The straight path" by John Esposito.

I took Professor Kaltner's Intro. to Islam class at Rhodes College. We used this text as brief overview of the Islamic faith and practices. This book would be very enlightening for those who have little or no knowledge of Islam and the Islamic way of life.