Illustrated Dictionary of the Muslim World Islamic Beliefs, Practices, and Cultures Modern Muslim Societies

Gr 7 Up—In-depth titles on modern Islam. Dictionary contains a glossary, a time line, a fact file of nations with significant Muslim populations, and two dictionaries: persons and places. Islamic Beliefs and Muslim Societies delve into social and religious customs in the Muslim world, and the world at large. General topics are covered (holidays, visual arts, marriage) and there are chapters devoted to the specific histories of Islam in different regions of the world. These titles do not shy away from current controversies, such as the debates over the definition of jihad and whether or not Islamic law requires the practice of female genital mutilation (considered by the WHO to be a human-rights violation). Sideboxes and pull-quotes highlight key concepts and enhance accessibility. Clear, color photos and reproductions throughout illustrate the diversity of the world's Muslims and their rich heritage. While it is detailed in information, the dictionary's inclusion criteria are unclear. It is confusing, for example, why Salman Rushdie is included, but not Ayaan Hirsi Ali. While extensive further-reading lists are included in each title, individual articles don't cite sources. However, except in the dictionary, the author of each article is listed, along with credentials. Attractive trim on the pages, colorful fonts, quality illustrations, and framed (and often illustrated) sideboxes create a pleasing layout. Excellent for assignments.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH