mantaq10's review against another edition
4.0
Sami Shah's book is full of witty commentary, jokes that would not only chuckle both Muslims and non-muslims alike and a very good intro to the landscape of Islam (Muslims more precisely) in the context of current global issues and its unique manifestation in Australia. A very balanced take on genuine concerns on both sides (Islamists and Islamophobes). Although the writing is purely anecdotal, the frequent interviews with people actively researching on these topics along with his upfront confession of it being so set the right expectations. A must read for all in down under.
horseyhayls's review against another edition
4.0
Finally, a review. Better late than never, right?
A very funny take of a topical and divided issue in Australia right now. As a Pakistani, comedian, and ex-Muslim, this is a unique perspective with a relaxed and humorous tone in a growing genre of literature on the subject which tends to be far more serious, a bit angry, and very political. Not that Sami Shah doesn't get political; he does present a helpful kind of Islam 101, going through the basics of the culture and politics of the religion, and sorts out a few misconceptions about the "Muslim community" in Australia (including the idea that the community is one homogeneous group). Throughout the book, Shah also addresses many issues including Islamophobia (maybe the touchiest subject in this country at the moment) in a way which requires everyone to stop taking themselves too seriously and have a bit of a laugh. No one is safe from Shah's gentle ridicule and that's just what we need right now.
My thanks to NetGalley and ABC Books for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
A very funny take of a topical and divided issue in Australia right now. As a Pakistani, comedian, and ex-Muslim, this is a unique perspective with a relaxed and humorous tone in a growing genre of literature on the subject which tends to be far more serious, a bit angry, and very political. Not that Sami Shah doesn't get political; he does present a helpful kind of Islam 101, going through the basics of the culture and politics of the religion, and sorts out a few misconceptions about the "Muslim community" in Australia (including the idea that the community is one homogeneous group). Throughout the book, Shah also addresses many issues including Islamophobia (maybe the touchiest subject in this country at the moment) in a way which requires everyone to stop taking themselves too seriously and have a bit of a laugh. No one is safe from Shah's gentle ridicule and that's just what we need right now.
My thanks to NetGalley and ABC Books for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
biblio_kel's review against another edition
4.0
A really interesting and surprisingly informative read with a good amount of humour.
mishaone's review against another edition
4.0
Good primer for anyone looking to understand Islam and the Muslim/Ex-Muslim experience in Australia. Easy to read, quite funny while remaining informative.
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