The Handy Islam Answer Book

February 16, 2015
This book, the latest in the publisher's Handy Answer Book series, is a helpful and comprehensive introduction to Islam, from its basic tenets to its geographical variation to its historical and contemporary political implications. Renard, a professor of comparative theology, is a strong prose writer with deep expertise on display in this work, as he delves into theology and politics with erudition and a measured, compassionate tone that will resonate with introductory readers. The question-and-answer format, however, does the work a disservice, as it interrupts Renard's thought, tires upon sustained reading, and often seems forced, with questions obviously posed only to fit the format. The intended audience for the book is unclear, with the questions ranging from the most basic ("What's the language of the Qur'an?") to far more complex questions few introductory readers would think to ask ("What is Nimrod's role in Islamic sources?") Still, it will be an invaluable asset for schools, libraries, and individuals seeking an informed and organized reference book for those curious about Islam and its role in today's world. (Jan.)\t

Starred review from February 15, 2015

This highly accessible and satisfying book from Renard (Islamic studies, St. Louis Univ.; Fighting Words: Religion, Violence, and the Interpretation of Sacred Texts) covers Islam and Muslim beliefs, culture, and philosophy. The author's stated purpose is to provide reliable information on the religion and its adherents and to elucidate what he calls "the simple consideration of the shared humanity that joins Muslims and non-Muslims far more deeply than cultural or religious differences separate them." In these ways the volume succeeds admirably. Formatted as a series of questions divided into 12 thematic chapters, it addresses the essentials such as "How did Islam begin?" and "Who was Muhammad?" and the complex questions of philosophy, culture, and theology, such as "What are key aspects of the divine-human relationship?" and "How does preaching function in Muslim ritual?" Matters of family (marriage, divorce, child rearing); attitudes toward women, other cultures, and other faiths; and parallels and convergences between Islam and other religions, are also explored. A series of appendixes offers time lines, a glossary, and references. The text itself is engaging, and, rare for a reference book, inspires one to read it cover to cover. VERDICT This very well-written and captivating resource explains Islam using an accessible and balanced approach and rectifies the more egregious misconceptions about the religion that are often popularly cited. A strong choice for anyone of high school age and above who wishes to know about Islam and for those who provide ready reference.--Amanda K. Sprochi, Univ. of Missouri-Columbia

Copyright 2015 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 1, 2015

Gr 9 Up-Renard, a professor in the Department of Theological Studies at Saint Louis University, clearly knows his subject, but that knowledge does not receive its best presentation in this primer on Islam. Renard succinctly covers the life of Muhammad as well as other important personages, historical and current events, and theological, cultural, and practical questions. Students searching for a specific piece of information on Islam may find it here if they can follow the extensive table of contents to the relevant question or questions. On the other hand, readers looking for a broader understanding of Islam will have some difficulty, as the question-and-answer structure of the book necessitates a good deal of repetition. Major concepts like Sufism and legal traditions are used in answers early in the volume but are only described later. Throughout, Renard debunks misconceptions held about Islam that are common in the West, but at times his answers shift from the factual toward emotional defenses of the faith. Scattered throughout are questions that feel out of place in an introductory text, such as those about a specific Islamic conference held in 2005. VERDICT There is useful information here, but students may have an easier time using other sources to find the basic facts on Islam hidden in these pages.-Eric Norton, McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.