John Voll

DeLong-Bas provides an excellent introduction to Islam for twenty-first century readers, introducing the major themes of the faith tradition and providing engaging portraits of historic and contemporary Muslims. One among the book’s many strengths is its presentation of topics of contemporary interest within the historical framework of the Islamic faith tradition. Her model analysis of the politics and theologies of gender examines historical developments and current controversies. Coverage of the history and evolution of Muslim-Christian relations from the time of Muhammad to the present contributes importantly to scholarship as well as adds a dimension not usually covered in books introducing Islam.