As a Christian I have thought deeply about my relationship with Muslims. I have read the Quran from cover to cover, not once, but twice. We spent a year in the predominantly Muslim country of Bangladesh and are now working our way through our third year in Malaysia. I work and eat with Muslims, and Muslims make up the overwhelming majority of the students that I teach. I would not wish to offend them in the least. I recognize that the only way forward for the West and Islam is through understanding and dialogue.
It is in that spirit that I urge all our Muslim readers, and those who have an interest in this cultural dialogue, to find and read a copy of this important book. Having read thousands of books, from Dante to Dostoevsvky, C.S. Lewis to Cervantes, Milton to Moby Dick, I can tell you that this is one of the most remarkable books I have ever read in my life.
I encourage you to put this book on your reading list for the coming year. It will expand your understanding of Islam tremendously, and uplift you with the tenacity and beauty of the human spirit. This is one amazing life, and yes I do see the providential provision of a loving God in the preservation of this unique woman. She has a story to tell that needs to be heard.
Home Thoughts From Abroad 
October 29, 2009 at 12:30 am
I’m interested when you talk about this book that can expand the understanding of Islam tremendously.
How far it can be?
anyway, good to share. I wish I could find time to read the book.
by the way, it pick my interest, when you said you have read the Quran from cover to cover, not once but twice.
I’m interested to know, what do you think throughout your reading?
There must be interesting experience to share with.
October 30, 2009 at 9:00 am
What I think of the Quran is largely what Ms. Ali seeks to understand from the Quran through her journey towards the truth. Only she expresses it far more eloquently than I could ever hope to do. I encourage you to read her book. I am certain by now it is in some good libraries, so that will save you the expense of buying it.