THE BOOK FAIR

Review.

In February of 2006, Wafa Sultan participated in an interview on Al Jazeera network that changed her life.  During the interview, Ms Sultan told the male interviewer to be quiet, as it was her turn to speak.  This statement caused a tsunami in the Muslim world.  Born in Syria, Ms. Sultan states, she grew up in a culture ruled by men and with a God who hates women.

In her book, Ms Sultan explains in detail the beginnings of Islam, the life of the Prophet, the tenets of Islamic law, attitudes towards women, and the politics of Islam.  As a psychiatrist, Ms. Sultan approaches the fanaticism and extreme requirements of Islam in social and humanitarian terms, not only political.

For example, the author asserts that Muslim women must learn the difference between decision and choice.  She sites for example the headscarf:  it is a decision to wear a headscarf.  But it is not a choice, because not wearing a headscarf brings punishment of one form or another depending on the country.

Ms. Sultan speaks candidly of her family, of her struggles in Syria and in immigrating to America.  The book is highly informative, well written, descriptive, and colorful.  Five stars. Recommended.