Book Review: The Complete Idiot's Guide to Islam

by Yahiya Emerick

The Complete Idiot’s Guide To Islam by Yahiya Emerick is just that, a thorough introduction to the history and teaching of Islam. The author starts with the importance for Westerners to understand Muslims, who are spread throughout this country and the world. These are our neighbors, both across the globe and next-door.  Emerick presents the historical background of the religion and then goes through the many aspects of this teaching, many of which are either totally unknown or misunderstood by Westerners. He uses clear definitions, and clarifications from teachers, as well as actual quotes from the Qur’an and other sacred texts.

This guide both presents a extensive exploration of the teachings as well as going through the many spiritual traditions and practices. Included is a comparison of Islam to other faiths of the world. Emerick does a wonderful job in opening our minds and hearts to this most beautiful and sacred teaching, based on love and devotion.

Review by Rev. Ruth Barnhart, a staff minister at Center for Spiritual Living, Santa Rosa.

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Islam is available from Stepping Stones Books and Gifts.