Muhammad

Rating:
Summary: An enlightening piece of work
Review: Sensitive prose and detailed, beautiful illustrations in the style of Persian miniatures make this one of the best books for readers young (and old) seeking an introductory biographical sketch of the Prophet Muhammad and the story of the origins of Islam. What is most remarkable is that the author presents this story as it is widely understood within Islam-her sources and bookjacket endorsements are all Muslims-yet in a way that illuminates that understanding for non-Muslims. DD

Rating:
Summary: A work of art
Review: The illustrations in this book are amazing -- gold gilt and beautiful details. The text is easy to read and fluid and is the standard accepted scholarly biography of Muhammad's life. (This is not a revisionist religious studies discussion, after all, and she's not pushing any envelopes.)

Demi's tone is not reverent, but respectful and considerate. The review from School Library Journal above reveals more about the author's prejudices than this book's biases: she says that Muslims weren't supposed to be friends with Jews and Christians, but the Jews and Christians to whom the Qur'an refers were the ones persecuting the early Muslims in 7th century Arabia. The reviewer neglects to mention that the Qur'an also says that Muslims can MARRY Jews and Christians because of their elevated status in Islam (Jews and Christians are called "People of an Earlier Revelation").

Demi, on the other hand, has adopted a very appropriate tone for this book. In a children's book about Jesus or Moses or Krishna, I would want to see a respectful narrative tone, as well.

Highly recommended for both children and adults -- a lovely way to get to know something about the 2nd largest religion in the world.

Rating:
Summary: Wonderful introduction to the life of Muhammad
Review: This is a beautiful, brief biography of the life of Muhammad. Demi's illustrations are lovely and are a perfect complement to his life. Of course it does not cover every aspect of Muhammad's life, but it is respectful and Demi's selection of episodes in his life are accurate and not misleading at all. I highly recommend this book as an introduction to Muhammad and Islam.