Secrets of the Koran: Revealing Insight Into Islam's Holy Book
Although Richardson asserts that his book offers "an objective yet concise critique of the Koran," only his claim for brevity rings true. Richardson's presentation of Islam is decidedly one-sided; he takes 111 of the Qur'an's "war verses" out of their historical contexts and claims that this selection proves that contemporary Islam is a dangerous and militant faith. (Has he read the Book of Deuteronomy lately?) But apart from the obvious problem of the pot calling the kettle black, Richardson ignores any evidence that contradicts his theory-for example, entirely neglecting to mention the history of the peaceful Moorish occupation of the Iberian peninsula. Richardson resorts to degrading stereotypes about Muslims, depicting Muhammad, for example, as a sex-crazed, vengeful and avaricious charlatan. The chapters are filled with unproven hyperbole, shrill writing, and a polemical tone, whether Richardson is railing against moderate scholars such as Karen Armstrong and John Esposito or attacking the news coverage of Newsweek and PBS. ("PBS," curses Richardson, "may the fleas from a thousand camels infest your armpits for foisting this travesty of a documentary upon us!") Overall, Richardson's sensationalized attempt to unveil the so-called "secrets" of Islam preys upon fear and perpetuates half-truths.Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.