A Thinking Persons Guide to Islam: The Essence of Islam in Twelve Verses from the Qur'an

This is the probably the best book I have ever read on Islam, coming from a Western background and despite having read many other famous books on islam which I found highly dissatisfying. (As an aside, I read this NOT as someone who is considering converting or anything but because I wanted to learn about key doctrinal concepts and history - and because I am interested in different religions)I loved how seems to be writing from a placing of understanding that a lot of islamic concepts like sharia or jihad are difficult for us western readers to understand. He is extremely knowledgeable and well versed in western philosophy and literature - eg references to Shakespeare and Immanuel Kant, but at the same time is true to defending his beliefs and what is islam.The annex on islamist radicalism is also a must read for those of us who know little about the ideological roots of extremism. I enjoyed learning about the differences between traditional islamic philosophy and Salafi wahabi extremism which I was surprise to know only developed relatively recently.Bless the author for such a wonderful work, and for making the history and nature of islam accessible and interesting to those of us who come from a different thought tradition.

Bought this book after it was recommended to me by a colleague. What I really appreciated and liked was that he used quotes from the Quran to explain Islam, which is a great way I think to show what the religion is all about.Delivery was quick and the product was also in excellent condition. I’d highly recommend it to anyone who wants a good introduction insight into this fascinating religion, that goes beyond the school book basics.

A perfect book to read which makes you think and enjoy small things all at once. Definitely recommend.

Wonderful. Fast shipping. Well packed

A scholarly book in the best way - easy to read and take in. Delivered speedily.

Very clearly written and it gives a different approach which really does make one think.

excellent book, simple and thorough. seller excellent

This book does a pretty good job of opening up Islam to the rest of us but I would have preferred a more academic rather than clerical view of the faith. One thing that did stand out is that, like any religious text, the Koran is highly susceptible to being interpreted the way any reader sees fit to serve their own particular beliefs. If you're thinking of converting to Islam, this would be a pretty good place to start. If you simply want to know more about it in an attempt to get behind the the truth of those who make various claims about it, look elsewhere.