Islam (World Religions) - Softcover

YA-- Questions, whether designed for review or to stimulate thinking, give this work the appearance of a textbook. However, even if textbooks are not generally purchased, this one certainly deserves to be an exception for its usefulness to students in world cultures or comparative religion classes. The writing is simple, objective, and to the point, and the text moves logically from the history of the faith through the tenets to the Islamic way of life. Presenting the traditional Sunni, or majority, perspective, it does not delve into the beliefs of various sects. As is true for other titles in this series, the author is a practicing member of the faith under discussion. Black-and-white photographs, sidebars, and clear maps present additional information. The Koran is often cited. The index seems brief, but chapter titles and short, specific subdivisions assist readers in locating information. While the chapter ``Muslims in Britain'' indicates an intended audience, this does not detract from the overall usefulness of the volume for U. S. students looking beyond their traditional cultural experiences.

Claudia Moore, W. T. Woodson High School, Fairfax, VA

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