Taking Back Islam

Book excerpt: “The thinking person's guide to Islam in a post-9/11 America” —Publisher’s Weekly Islam, the least understood of the world's great religions, is balanced on a precipice between the past and the future, between fanatical fundamentalists and progressives advocating peace. Noted Islamic authority Michael Wolfe moderates 35 expert speakers, writers, and leaders, including Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens) and Karen Armstrong, the bestselling author of A History of God and Islam. Leading authorities discuss the future of Islam, tear down false stereotypes, review the historical realities that have shaped the religion, and examine paradoxes and schisms within the faith. At a time when every Muslim is forced to defend his faith and Americans are curious about Islam's basic tenets, this book answers many questions at the same time that it ponders both the danger and promise of the future.