The Muslim Problem: What It Actually Means to be Muslim by Tawseef Khan

I am so incredibly grateful that a book like The Muslim Problem, by British Asian lawyer and writer Tawseef Khan, is coming out into the world. A special thanks to Atlantic Books for gifting me with an advance copy. The Muslim Problem comes out in March 2021.

In The Muslim Problem, Tawseef Khan deconstructs the most common stereotypes held about Muslims, particularly in the wake of 9/11 - that we are “extremist,” “sexist,” “violent,” “homophobic,” and “refuse to integrate.” Each chapter is almost a separate essay exploring these stereotypes in the face of rising Islamophobia in the West. Each chapter has been written in a very balanced manner as Khan explores how Muslims contend with a multitude of issues within the community as well as contending with the accusations thrown at them from Western governments and the far right. And this balance and ability to self-reflect is why I enjoyed it so much. He also includes anecdotes from his own life which helps make it an enjoyable and accessible read for all.

The points made in this book are extremely refreshing, especially when it comes to the status of women in Islam and Islam’s approach to queerness/LGBTQ+ community - and Khan has clearly thoroughly researched each topic, speaking to a wide range of Muslim writers, scholars and public figures.

The book concludes with a mini manifesto, one that encourages and invigorates Muslims in today’s world, where sometimes we are shot down within our community for trying to re-examine and re-explore certain interpretations in the religion, while at the same time living with discrimination from those who hate Islam. Mentally juggling the two becomes quite disheartening and I finished this book feeling re-heartened (I just made that word up lol!), feeling like I have a right to my space within the community.

A vital read for Muslims and non-Muslims alike who wish to understand life as a Muslim today. Five stars!