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Teach Yourself Islam

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The ideal book for all students of philosophy or comparative religion--or anyone interested in becoming a more knowledgeable "global" citizen. A fun, fascinating and informative text that will immerse you in the world of Islam.

224 pages, Paperback

First published January 11, 1996

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5 stars
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40 (49%)
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22 (27%)
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
Profile Image for Jennifer.
243 reviews15 followers
January 31, 2010
So when my husband and I started to get serious, I really wanted to get a deeper understanding of his religion and his culture. This book answered A LOT of my questions and created thousands of topics that we could discuss together. I feel that I have a very good grasp of Islam now and the culture that surrounds it. Highly recommend so you can get a better idea of this religion and what is ACTUALLY tolerated under the teachings of Mohammed and what has been warped into fitting people's agendas.
308 reviews1 follower
August 30, 2011
This book was very easy to read and digest. It is formatted in a way that it will serve me as a good reference to basic Islam principles and groups during my course. In some places I feel that the author is slightly too biased by glossing over issues, but on a whole this is a reliable resource. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of Islam.
Profile Image for Nicole.
422 reviews6 followers
May 6, 2011
An interesting book with lots of information, quotes, and covering a huge variety of topics. This, or a book like it, is a must-read for anyone interested in Islam.
11 reviews
July 6, 2007
This is presented in a clear and easy format and it's easy to pick up and read sections. It answered a lot of questions such as why Muslims don't eat pigs, what goes on at a pilgrimage to Mecca, why women cover up in some countries and not in others etc. It helps to build an understanding and awareness of a worldwide culture.
Profile Image for loathe.
44 reviews4 followers
November 7, 2018
One of the best introductory books on Islam out there. Some books excel in the history, some in the interpretations, some in how to practice being a Muslim, but none tie them all together as well as this book. While not entirely unbiased, it remains mostly neutral throughout and gives you many facts rather than opinions for you to interpret yourself and really take grasp of
36 reviews2 followers
April 29, 2009
I actually took this from my dad a long time ago, but didn't decide to pick it up and read it until after I read Three Cups of Tea. I honestly didn't know much about Islam, but am now fascinated and impressed by its deeply personal and prayerful nature.
22 reviews1 follower
December 31, 2007
i just honestly knew almost nothing, which is why i read this book. it was fairly helpful and extremely easy to read.
9 reviews
October 12, 2008
A good beginners book for basic insights on Islamic principles and practice.
22 reviews1 follower
May 22, 2020
A decent overview of muslim attitudes and practice from the perspective of what seems to be a British muslim, with the opinions one would expect from such. I found the lack of historical perspective disappointing, but that's very much on me for expecting things such an entry text would be unlikely to supply.

However, there is a definite Sunni-bias, and some of the claims made are the kind of usual boomer material that leaves one a tad incredulous. Overall worth it for a feel of muslim practice, less useful for muslim perspectives on life and prescribed behaviour.
Profile Image for Robin Ramone.
38 reviews1 follower
April 26, 2019
The information published in this book completely contradicts the Quran.
Profile Image for Cathy .
1,954 reviews299 followers
February 10, 2013
The book gives a good first look into Islam. It covers all the basics and is easy too read.

I did not like the strong emphasis on Asian Muslims living in Britain, it gives a slightly distorted view. Also I would have wished it too be a little less defensive and a bit more critical. Living in Egypt with the majority of the population being Muslims and being the minority myself, I had to laugh a few times at the idealistic picture the author drew of Muslim society.

But still, a very good start, if you want to learn more about the religion.
Profile Image for Saarah Niña.
554 reviews24 followers
April 3, 2016
I recommend....

I recently brought this book and I was really grateful for there being no unexpected delays in its delivery. The product, itself, is just as good. I prefer the layout and format of the pages within this book, compared to other books which tend to be lengthier, crowded and possess an overwhelming amount of information.

The book even features images, which are always good. Who doesn't love a picture book?

The book is suitable more for adults and those who want to really enhance their knowledge regarding Islam.
Profile Image for Kyle.
101 reviews5 followers
October 23, 2007
This is a good survey of Islam , its values and history. It could be a little better orgamized, however, as it's repetitive in places and at times seems more like an FAQ than an informative book.
Profile Image for Ashley.
29 reviews
April 19, 2009
This book is great for people who are wanting to learn about the world of Islam. It really gives you lots of details in the understanding in this culture.
Profile Image for Tristy.
776 reviews56 followers
February 7, 2010
This is kind of like "Islam for Dummies" without the sense of humor. It's full of information and is a good reference, but not a lot of fun to read.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews

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