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Behind the Veils of Yemen: How An American Woman Risked Her Life, Family, And Faith To Bring Jesus To Muslim Women
When Audra Grace Shelby and her husband felt God calling them to minister in the Middle East, she was fearful--how would she raise her children in the heart of conservative Islam?
Armed with prayers and a faith that always seemed too small, the family made the move to Yemen, enduring deadly illness, uncertainty, and the unnerving experience of being Christians in an Islamic culture.
Yet God was at work, and Audra was invited to see what few Christian women have seen: behind the veils of Muslim women. Here she shares about the friendships she forged, about the opportunities to minister when her new friends' hopes shriveled and their own religion faltered--and how the grace of God touched lives in the midst of an enemy stronghold. With humor, passion, and honesty, she shows readers glimpses of life deep in the heart of Islam and the yearning heart of our loving God.
Armed with prayers and a faith that always seemed too small, the family made the move to Yemen, enduring deadly illness, uncertainty, and the unnerving experience of being Christians in an Islamic culture.
Yet God was at work, and Audra was invited to see what few Christian women have seen: behind the veils of Muslim women. Here she shares about the friendships she forged, about the opportunities to minister when her new friends' hopes shriveled and their own religion faltered--and how the grace of God touched lives in the midst of an enemy stronghold. With humor, passion, and honesty, she shows readers glimpses of life deep in the heart of Islam and the yearning heart of our loving God.
243 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2011
63 people are currently reading
773 people want to read
About the author
Audra Grace Shelby
4 books4 followersAudra Grace Shelby served nine years as a Southern Baptist missionary in the Middle East, alongside her husband and four children. The daughter of career missionaries, she speaks frequently at conferences and in churches across the United States, and she
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
October 31, 2012
This book was extremely disappointing and reminds me why any religious zealotry, regardless of its source, is so dangerous.
Shelby didn't go to Yemen to help improve the life of the people there; she went to convert them. She didn't provide medical care, clean drinking water, or help build schools like other missionaries. Her goal was only to infiltrate communities and convince them that her viewpoint was superior.
Obviously the Yemeni women do not enjoy the same freedoms that we do in the U.S., but they still believe what they believe and have a right to do so. For Shelby to learn so little from this experience is a shame.
I expected the author to show some kind of growth or understanding and come to realize that she wasn't so different from the Muslim women she met. Instead, she failed to see that they believe in their god for the same reasons she believes in hers. She based her success on the number of people who bought into Christianity, not the lives she could improve.
Shelby didn't go to Yemen to help improve the life of the people there; she went to convert them. She didn't provide medical care, clean drinking water, or help build schools like other missionaries. Her goal was only to infiltrate communities and convince them that her viewpoint was superior.
Obviously the Yemeni women do not enjoy the same freedoms that we do in the U.S., but they still believe what they believe and have a right to do so. For Shelby to learn so little from this experience is a shame.
I expected the author to show some kind of growth or understanding and come to realize that she wasn't so different from the Muslim women she met. Instead, she failed to see that they believe in their god for the same reasons she believes in hers. She based her success on the number of people who bought into Christianity, not the lives she could improve.
January 14, 2016
An honest portrayal of what it is like to do mission work in the Muslim World. Shelby is not afraid to share her doubts, fears, and frustrations with adjusting to a new culture and a new way of thinking. For people who are interested in the mindset of a family that is passionate and dedicated to missions work, this would be a good read.
I felt frustrated at times by what I considered to be rather trite references to prayer. I recognize that this was her experience and that God answers her seemingly little prayers (like for a crate to arrive one week late) in a way that caused her faith to grow, my own experience spending time on pediatric cancer wards indicates that God does not always give us what we pray for. The references to prayer in the book were filled with answers to prayer and I think this holds out an unrealistic view of what prayer is for. Might I have prayed for a crate to arrive late -- certainly -- because I do believe God cares about such things. But sharing this view of prayer in a missionary biography sets up the expectation for some readers that God acted like this because he cared so much for the Shelby family and when he doesn't answer in the same way for families like those I have met on the Pediatric Oncology Ward, the tendency is for people to believe that for some reason God doesn't care about them. I found myself so distracted by these vending machine type answers to prayer that I couldn't fully appreciate the book.
Some readers expressed annoyance at her lack of cultural understanding -- and at times I felt the same way. But in the end, I appreciated her honesty with regard to these things. The fact is that moving to a new place, especially a place where cultural norms are so different, is extraordinarily difficult. We spend years being socialized to the right way of doing things and then suddenly being told that one's way is wrong can be very disorienting. I'm glad she didn't sugarcoat her adjustment woes.
Overall, for fans of missionary biographies, this is probably a worthwhile addition to the genre. She provides great description of the place and insight into the cultural norms from her perspective. She also gives a great look into the adjustment that is required for those who move to another culture. I wouldn't recommend it outside of those types of readers as I think it would be very problematic for people who don't have the same understanding of Christian missions as Shelby and her family.
I felt frustrated at times by what I considered to be rather trite references to prayer. I recognize that this was her experience and that God answers her seemingly little prayers (like for a crate to arrive one week late) in a way that caused her faith to grow, my own experience spending time on pediatric cancer wards indicates that God does not always give us what we pray for. The references to prayer in the book were filled with answers to prayer and I think this holds out an unrealistic view of what prayer is for. Might I have prayed for a crate to arrive late -- certainly -- because I do believe God cares about such things. But sharing this view of prayer in a missionary biography sets up the expectation for some readers that God acted like this because he cared so much for the Shelby family and when he doesn't answer in the same way for families like those I have met on the Pediatric Oncology Ward, the tendency is for people to believe that for some reason God doesn't care about them. I found myself so distracted by these vending machine type answers to prayer that I couldn't fully appreciate the book.
Some readers expressed annoyance at her lack of cultural understanding -- and at times I felt the same way. But in the end, I appreciated her honesty with regard to these things. The fact is that moving to a new place, especially a place where cultural norms are so different, is extraordinarily difficult. We spend years being socialized to the right way of doing things and then suddenly being told that one's way is wrong can be very disorienting. I'm glad she didn't sugarcoat her adjustment woes.
Overall, for fans of missionary biographies, this is probably a worthwhile addition to the genre. She provides great description of the place and insight into the cultural norms from her perspective. She also gives a great look into the adjustment that is required for those who move to another culture. I wouldn't recommend it outside of those types of readers as I think it would be very problematic for people who don't have the same understanding of Christian missions as Shelby and her family.
May 15, 2013
Like a lot of holier than thou Christians, the author strikes me as being incredibly unChristian in a blind way.
June 16, 2021
I have extremely mixed opinions on this book. At first I thought it was just going to be stereotyped, racist, anti-Islamic depictions and white savior tropes. But it wasn't so black and white. Yes, Audra is really cringe and awful to go to another country for the only purpose of trying to convert the people. I have respect for Catholic missionaries who go to another country to operate and build hospitals, schools and other useful forms of charity. Audra is not there is to be useful though, her sole purpose is to convince the population that they need Jesus. What usefulness she does end up being is only due to circumstance, or to be more appealing to the population so they desire her religion. And yes, most of the book is mostly just about her, her family, and her own religious struggles -not even about the people she is coming to 'save'.
Anyway, I'm a white Christian married to a Yemeni Muslim. So I had a special interest in this book for a very obvious reason. And admittedly, I saw many of my own struggles reflected here. I think Audra does a mostly honest and respectful job depicting Yemeni society and Yemeni people. Most of what she talks about is true, even if it is only a narrow vision of a specific aspect of the culture. She isn't shy to mention that Muslims are more pious than her, more moral. She doesn't hesitate to illustrate her own failings and elevate the hospitality of Yemeni's, who pride themselves in their manners. In some ways, I was really impressed by her transparent illustrations. She seems to have actually really respected her host country and the people she encountered, at least, way more than I expected. In one part of the story, she clearly demonstrates how much more friendly she was able to be with the locals as opposed to other western women (she goes out with a group of western women who all are cold to her and ignore her, and then later is with a bunch of village women who adore her and show her kindness).
Even though I certainly enjoyed many aspects of this book, and felt it was a decent representation of Yemen and Yemeni culture -there was still so much of it that was laden with ignorance and second hand embarrassment. For one, Audra doesn't understand Islam. And Audra's Christianity is nothing I personally understand, if she can't see the similarities between her and a Muslim's belief, then I just can't relate. I assume she is some kind of Protestant but I don't know if that is every spelled out plainly. She says some really absurd and unhelpful things in regards to her faith like how she worships a God who is "alive" (thinking incorrectly that Muslims worship.... a dead God?). She cringes at their use of 'Mashallah' (God Willing) which seems strange coming from a religious perspective -isn't it good to include God in everything you say and think? And other than just saying she finds comfort and peace in Jesus, she really offers the Muslim women she talks to absolutely nothing that they don't already get from their religion. Is this how missionaries work? How do they ever convert anyone? Secondly, she constantly talks to the Yemeni's like children. She does this intentionally to earn their respect (by not correcting them or admonishing them). Personally I can't stand this approach to dealing with another culture. When the Yemeni girls show off their motkhenna (a quern-stone) she could have illuminated them by telling them of modern technology, plant a seed of awe and curiosity in them. Instead she just goes along with them and says that she needs one too. "The old woman sat back against her cushions with a pleased smile wrinkling her face. She seemed glad to give instruction to a foreign woman. I chuckled inwardly. How could I describe my high-powered food processor to a woman who thought me ill-equipped without a stone grinding slab? I smiled. I would indeed buy a motkhenna, but not for my kitchen. I would display it in my curio cabinet." While this kind of catering to ignorance is polite for passing strangers, she is trying to develop deep and emotional bonds with these women. All she is doing is being disingenuous, and what will she do? She will buy the technology they are so proud of for décor. How insulting.
On top of this I do feel she either focused too much on the impoverished and uneducated people of Yemen, or she is exaggerating. For example, when she talks to some women about her potentially having a baby girl, they say that it is bad and she should hope for a boy. While boys are beloved as first children especially in almost all cultures, girls are adored in Yemeni and Muslim society. Several Islamic hadith praise the blessings that are obtained by having girls. So there were times where her conversations seemed off to me, but to be fair, I don't have conversations with village women who don't know what a blender is.
Overall I think what Audra did was done with wrong intentions, and she never seems to shake the idea that she is above the people who she is wanting to "help". She seems to think all Yemeni's are uneducated, impoverished and following some backwater religion (even though Islam is in a sense, an offshoot of Christianity). While poverty is a true reality even for the rich of Yemen, especially these days, there are wider avenues she could have pursued, but didn't either by choice or ignorance. I found sooo much of it to be embarrassing, as a white Christian who has found myself in many similar situations. But on the other hand, how rare is it that anyone in the West is writing about Yemen? I loved to see the depictions of the place and people, even if she mostly wrote about the bad side of things. Yemeni people and Yemeni culture is incredibly unique in the world and still a big mystery to most people. While this isn't the best, ideal way for someone to learn about it, it's a start. Overall I think I would recommend the book to people with some knowledge about Yemen, and I would be hesitant for this to be the first encounter someone has with the country. But even then, Yemen is a backdrop in this story -Audra is the main focus. So unless you're interested in reading about the internal dialog of an Evangelizing Christian, then maybe I'd just pass all together.
Anyway, I'm a white Christian married to a Yemeni Muslim. So I had a special interest in this book for a very obvious reason. And admittedly, I saw many of my own struggles reflected here. I think Audra does a mostly honest and respectful job depicting Yemeni society and Yemeni people. Most of what she talks about is true, even if it is only a narrow vision of a specific aspect of the culture. She isn't shy to mention that Muslims are more pious than her, more moral. She doesn't hesitate to illustrate her own failings and elevate the hospitality of Yemeni's, who pride themselves in their manners. In some ways, I was really impressed by her transparent illustrations. She seems to have actually really respected her host country and the people she encountered, at least, way more than I expected. In one part of the story, she clearly demonstrates how much more friendly she was able to be with the locals as opposed to other western women (she goes out with a group of western women who all are cold to her and ignore her, and then later is with a bunch of village women who adore her and show her kindness).
Even though I certainly enjoyed many aspects of this book, and felt it was a decent representation of Yemen and Yemeni culture -there was still so much of it that was laden with ignorance and second hand embarrassment. For one, Audra doesn't understand Islam. And Audra's Christianity is nothing I personally understand, if she can't see the similarities between her and a Muslim's belief, then I just can't relate. I assume she is some kind of Protestant but I don't know if that is every spelled out plainly. She says some really absurd and unhelpful things in regards to her faith like how she worships a God who is "alive" (thinking incorrectly that Muslims worship.... a dead God?). She cringes at their use of 'Mashallah' (God Willing) which seems strange coming from a religious perspective -isn't it good to include God in everything you say and think? And other than just saying she finds comfort and peace in Jesus, she really offers the Muslim women she talks to absolutely nothing that they don't already get from their religion. Is this how missionaries work? How do they ever convert anyone? Secondly, she constantly talks to the Yemeni's like children. She does this intentionally to earn their respect (by not correcting them or admonishing them). Personally I can't stand this approach to dealing with another culture. When the Yemeni girls show off their motkhenna (a quern-stone) she could have illuminated them by telling them of modern technology, plant a seed of awe and curiosity in them. Instead she just goes along with them and says that she needs one too. "The old woman sat back against her cushions with a pleased smile wrinkling her face. She seemed glad to give instruction to a foreign woman. I chuckled inwardly. How could I describe my high-powered food processor to a woman who thought me ill-equipped without a stone grinding slab? I smiled. I would indeed buy a motkhenna, but not for my kitchen. I would display it in my curio cabinet." While this kind of catering to ignorance is polite for passing strangers, she is trying to develop deep and emotional bonds with these women. All she is doing is being disingenuous, and what will she do? She will buy the technology they are so proud of for décor. How insulting.
On top of this I do feel she either focused too much on the impoverished and uneducated people of Yemen, or she is exaggerating. For example, when she talks to some women about her potentially having a baby girl, they say that it is bad and she should hope for a boy. While boys are beloved as first children especially in almost all cultures, girls are adored in Yemeni and Muslim society. Several Islamic hadith praise the blessings that are obtained by having girls. So there were times where her conversations seemed off to me, but to be fair, I don't have conversations with village women who don't know what a blender is.
Overall I think what Audra did was done with wrong intentions, and she never seems to shake the idea that she is above the people who she is wanting to "help". She seems to think all Yemeni's are uneducated, impoverished and following some backwater religion (even though Islam is in a sense, an offshoot of Christianity). While poverty is a true reality even for the rich of Yemen, especially these days, there are wider avenues she could have pursued, but didn't either by choice or ignorance. I found sooo much of it to be embarrassing, as a white Christian who has found myself in many similar situations. But on the other hand, how rare is it that anyone in the West is writing about Yemen? I loved to see the depictions of the place and people, even if she mostly wrote about the bad side of things. Yemeni people and Yemeni culture is incredibly unique in the world and still a big mystery to most people. While this isn't the best, ideal way for someone to learn about it, it's a start. Overall I think I would recommend the book to people with some knowledge about Yemen, and I would be hesitant for this to be the first encounter someone has with the country. But even then, Yemen is a backdrop in this story -Audra is the main focus. So unless you're interested in reading about the internal dialog of an Evangelizing Christian, then maybe I'd just pass all together.
June 20, 2012
I felt the author was very truthful about how she felt about everything she went through. I could really relate to her and respect her. I liked how the book wasn't shocking in its imagery. It was worth the read. I never read non-fiction books and I'm happy I read this. It kept my attention and I was truly interested about their life in Yemen. I learned a lot about what is truly behind the veils of Muslim women and their struggles. Please keep this people group in your prayers.
February 18, 2012
One of the worst books I have ever read, I would give it zero stars.. Amazing how it s accepted to be disrespectful of other ist because their belief system is different! There are different ways to empower women in different cultures!
September 15, 2012
It's rare I call a modern work of nonfiction excellent, but Behind the Veils of Yemen is. This is the story of one woman's growth in Christ and her work among Yemen women. But along the way, we get an intimate look at what life is like for the women in Yemen and how different the culture is there. Happily, too, the book is not about listing the number of conversions the author witnessed. It is more about how Christians can truly touch others - whether or not they live in Yemen. I cannot recommend this book enough.
July 8, 2013
A real glimpse into the life of Yemen women and such an encouragement of faith from a godly woman. She is real and honest about her doubts and God is real in the way he answers each.
September 11, 2013
Well written. I felt like I had a good visit in Yemen -- Audra does a lovely job of describing what life was like. Also appreciated that she used Arabic terms (defined for us) in the conversations. What God calls us to do.....and I really liked (?) her phrase -- "Do you trust me enough to not know why?" (Not an exact paraphrase, but it resonated.... That's a real question -- do I trust God enough to no have to know why....
May 6, 2016
I was surprised by the ending as it was abrupt. f
Felt as though author got tired of writing so she placed a period and closed the file. The glimpses into the lives of the Yemen women were insightful yet not surprising. I found her attitude towards their beliefs to be pompous rather than understanding.
Felt as though author got tired of writing so she placed a period and closed the file. The glimpses into the lives of the Yemen women were insightful yet not surprising. I found her attitude towards their beliefs to be pompous rather than understanding.
January 11, 2023
I usually don't read books like this due to the high emotional cost, but I was strongly drawn to this book to fulfill "Around the World in 80 Days" readathon/challenge. This is an excellent book! I recommend this captivating memoir to anyone who has a heart for missions and honoring Jesus. Vulnerability and truth described throughout the book while Jesus was continually revered are encouraging!
July 2, 2018
I'm sure that some people might enjoy this book. But I found the title very miss leading.Maybe I expected to much from it.This story was about the authors own personal faith more than preaching the word to women in Yemen.
December 28, 2012
A missionary woman, responding to God's call to serve in Yemen - that is what this book is about. Audra Grace Shelby sees her faith challenged as she goes through the initial period of her introduction to a country and people who have so many different customs and habits, but who are, just as the rest of us, people with feelings, interest and worries. A wife, a mother, a friend and a witness to God's grace and love for Yemeni women, Audra faces difficult moments that shake her emotions and her different roles, but prays to become the tool that would be able to share Jesus in such a way that Muslims would understand. It is easier said than done. There were many risks involved, but she and her family decided to stay faithful to God. She tells about how even her relationship with Jesus changed; she learned to trust Him completely, even when things did not make sense to her and finds solace in the peace that God gives, as a constant companion through hardships.
During the years of her life described in the book, we learn how she befriends Fatima, a woman who teaches her Arabic and the ways of the culture, and introduces Audra to her family (mainly women relatives) and closest circle of friends. She gets a peculiar glimpse at the women behind the veils, who slowly come to accept her (some just agreed to put up with her). The more and more familiar she got with Fatima and the others, the more Audra becomes aware of the heavy burden that restricts Muslim women, going way beyond their clothes; it comes to the fact that they are not even allowed to learn how to read or write, so their faith and ways are a result of what they are told, either by men or by older women who were also just told about the Muslim ways. This fact also translates into further abuse, like not being given the right change when buying groceries in the market (they just do not know how to count), or cheated out of estate ownership or inheritance.
Little by little, Audra becomes a living testimony of how interested God is in having a relationship with us, and bravely does and acts Christian in a society that rejects her and her family. For example, she describes the prayer ritual and how meaningful it is for Muslims to wash before praying. When she asks if she could pray and does not wash, the women around her are shocked, but that allows Audra to explain that Jesus is not interested in how clean our outside is, but is rather interested in the cleanliness of our heart. With precious moments like this one, she is able to tick the women who have been in such a need of love and acceptance.
Her story does not talk much about her husband's ministry, about which I often wondered; however, don't let that hinder you from reading this book. It is a treasure. Personally, it has reminded me of how blessed we are to live in a time and place where we are free to learn and study the Bible in so many different ways. It gives a wonderful picture of what the personal life of a missionary is - a fact that would help us pray for those who have been sent and their specific needs. Also, it is a challenge for Christians, to love and see people more the way God does, and not the way we do, taking away prejudice and preconceived notions, and just loving them the way they are - after all, Jesus died for all of us, equally and with no distinction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. In no way has this influenced my opinion on the book or on the author.
During the years of her life described in the book, we learn how she befriends Fatima, a woman who teaches her Arabic and the ways of the culture, and introduces Audra to her family (mainly women relatives) and closest circle of friends. She gets a peculiar glimpse at the women behind the veils, who slowly come to accept her (some just agreed to put up with her). The more and more familiar she got with Fatima and the others, the more Audra becomes aware of the heavy burden that restricts Muslim women, going way beyond their clothes; it comes to the fact that they are not even allowed to learn how to read or write, so their faith and ways are a result of what they are told, either by men or by older women who were also just told about the Muslim ways. This fact also translates into further abuse, like not being given the right change when buying groceries in the market (they just do not know how to count), or cheated out of estate ownership or inheritance.
Little by little, Audra becomes a living testimony of how interested God is in having a relationship with us, and bravely does and acts Christian in a society that rejects her and her family. For example, she describes the prayer ritual and how meaningful it is for Muslims to wash before praying. When she asks if she could pray and does not wash, the women around her are shocked, but that allows Audra to explain that Jesus is not interested in how clean our outside is, but is rather interested in the cleanliness of our heart. With precious moments like this one, she is able to tick the women who have been in such a need of love and acceptance.
Her story does not talk much about her husband's ministry, about which I often wondered; however, don't let that hinder you from reading this book. It is a treasure. Personally, it has reminded me of how blessed we are to live in a time and place where we are free to learn and study the Bible in so many different ways. It gives a wonderful picture of what the personal life of a missionary is - a fact that would help us pray for those who have been sent and their specific needs. Also, it is a challenge for Christians, to love and see people more the way God does, and not the way we do, taking away prejudice and preconceived notions, and just loving them the way they are - after all, Jesus died for all of us, equally and with no distinction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. In no way has this influenced my opinion on the book or on the author.
February 24, 2012
Good Morning folks. Here is another great book for you to add to your list of must reads!
Behind the Veils of Yemen by Audra Grace Shelby is really a book that I looked forward to reading. Why you might ask? Well I was looking forward to the insight of a US missionary going to a foreign country, I wanted to see what she had to experience as well as how she, as well as her family were going to deal with those challenges. I would have to say honestly I was impressed by what I read.
Let me start at the beginning.... Behind the Veils of Yemen is a book written by Audra Grace Shelby. It is just a little glimps into her life as a missionary to Yemen. Audra goes to Yemen with her husband and her three children, it is a struggle to leave her family and friends in the USA knowing that they were going to a country that is totally foreign, not woman friendly by any means and does not take kindly to Christians.
Audra is very honest in the book when she talks about her struggles as a woman having to be cover-up in public, or as a Christian who has to deal with medical problems that arise with her family in the USA as well as once she is in a foreign country. Struggles for things that we take for granted such as clean water, running water, decent housing, loving husbands and families, even being able to get medical attention when you need it - not later when it could be too late!
It was interesting to see how Audra's faith kicks in and reminds her that God is with her, that she is not alone. She may feel that she is facing the giants by herself but she is always reminded by something that she needs to rely on God and He will get her through it. This does not mean that she never gets upset at the circumstances, or mad at having to go through a situation, it means to stand firm with her God and wait for the results. That no matter how hard those results are God will strengthen her and she will be able to handle it!
I was very impressed with the choices that were made by Audra, she chose to be a missionary and to go to Yemen with her family. She chose to stay true to her God and pray to Him even when others were not supportive and actually thought she was unclean, an infidel. She chose to pick the Yemen woman and their culture over the "American women" that were living in Yemen at the time. Something that had to really be very hard at the time! She chose to live in a country that does not support women, tries to keep them uneducated, covered and dependant on men. She chose to take her children to a country where they might not always be safe but that they would always be able to see God move in their lives as well as others. She lives by example to the rest of Christians that might be talking the talk but not walking the walk. We are here to do the work of the Lord, no matter how hard or uncomfortable that may be.
Go pick up a copy of this book! I bet you look at things a little differently. I pray that it will prompt you to get out of your comfort zone and into God's zone!
I want to thank Chosen a division of Baker Publishing Group for giving me this book free of charge. All they ask in return from me is to write an honest book review.
Behind the Veils of Yemen by Audra Grace Shelby is really a book that I looked forward to reading. Why you might ask? Well I was looking forward to the insight of a US missionary going to a foreign country, I wanted to see what she had to experience as well as how she, as well as her family were going to deal with those challenges. I would have to say honestly I was impressed by what I read.
Let me start at the beginning.... Behind the Veils of Yemen is a book written by Audra Grace Shelby. It is just a little glimps into her life as a missionary to Yemen. Audra goes to Yemen with her husband and her three children, it is a struggle to leave her family and friends in the USA knowing that they were going to a country that is totally foreign, not woman friendly by any means and does not take kindly to Christians.
Audra is very honest in the book when she talks about her struggles as a woman having to be cover-up in public, or as a Christian who has to deal with medical problems that arise with her family in the USA as well as once she is in a foreign country. Struggles for things that we take for granted such as clean water, running water, decent housing, loving husbands and families, even being able to get medical attention when you need it - not later when it could be too late!
It was interesting to see how Audra's faith kicks in and reminds her that God is with her, that she is not alone. She may feel that she is facing the giants by herself but she is always reminded by something that she needs to rely on God and He will get her through it. This does not mean that she never gets upset at the circumstances, or mad at having to go through a situation, it means to stand firm with her God and wait for the results. That no matter how hard those results are God will strengthen her and she will be able to handle it!
I was very impressed with the choices that were made by Audra, she chose to be a missionary and to go to Yemen with her family. She chose to stay true to her God and pray to Him even when others were not supportive and actually thought she was unclean, an infidel. She chose to pick the Yemen woman and their culture over the "American women" that were living in Yemen at the time. Something that had to really be very hard at the time! She chose to live in a country that does not support women, tries to keep them uneducated, covered and dependant on men. She chose to take her children to a country where they might not always be safe but that they would always be able to see God move in their lives as well as others. She lives by example to the rest of Christians that might be talking the talk but not walking the walk. We are here to do the work of the Lord, no matter how hard or uncomfortable that may be.
Go pick up a copy of this book! I bet you look at things a little differently. I pray that it will prompt you to get out of your comfort zone and into God's zone!
I want to thank Chosen a division of Baker Publishing Group for giving me this book free of charge. All they ask in return from me is to write an honest book review.
November 11, 2011
"Behind the Veils of Yemen" by Audra Grace Shelby, is a fascinating and eloquent true story, of Audra's and her family, personal experience, when they relocated to Yemen, to begin work there as missionaries.
Filled with rich details of the Yemeni culture from meals to wedding traditions to basic phrases that are customary to greet each other, what makes, "Behind the Veils of Yemen" stands out, is that this isn't about just the women of Yemen, that Audra encountered and ministered, but how her and her family life there, were transformed and their faith in God was strengthened by their personal experiences.
The stories she shares are haunting and presents a look, "Behind the Veils of Yemen" , that those in the States often don't hear or maybe only hear very brief glimpses of and the way, Audra, writes, is a story that is filled with strength and hope, in and through our Father in Heaven.
I felt that the ending of the book was a bit rushed and yearned to find out more about what happen after the events in Yemen, but the rest of the book, is a powerful testimony to the spirit of faith, hope and persistence.
The reader will find themselves hanging on to the detail of daily life of the Yemeni culture as shared by Audra and the complicated interactions she find, living as a foreigner among the Yemeni people.
Her experiences are both eye-opening, heart breaking, convicting and live readers asking, how strong are they to be able to do the same as Audra and her family.
Although the book shares about the Muslim women that Audra encountered and befriended, if you are expecting a "missionary book" about conversions, Audra doesn't focus on that; Instead, she focuses on the real life struggles and experiences of being a missionary family in the Middle East, learning both the languages and customs, sharing personal insights into the culture and on the trials that her and her family personally endure of times of sickness that they had encountered and how as Christians, sharing the Gospel with other faiths and culture.
This isn't really a book that focuses a lot on the Yemen women or culture, but rather is more like a personal biography of one missionary families experience, but it is still a compelling and fascinating read to look into.
***This book has been provided courtesy of Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.***
Filled with rich details of the Yemeni culture from meals to wedding traditions to basic phrases that are customary to greet each other, what makes, "Behind the Veils of Yemen" stands out, is that this isn't about just the women of Yemen, that Audra encountered and ministered, but how her and her family life there, were transformed and their faith in God was strengthened by their personal experiences.
The stories she shares are haunting and presents a look, "Behind the Veils of Yemen" , that those in the States often don't hear or maybe only hear very brief glimpses of and the way, Audra, writes, is a story that is filled with strength and hope, in and through our Father in Heaven.
I felt that the ending of the book was a bit rushed and yearned to find out more about what happen after the events in Yemen, but the rest of the book, is a powerful testimony to the spirit of faith, hope and persistence.
The reader will find themselves hanging on to the detail of daily life of the Yemeni culture as shared by Audra and the complicated interactions she find, living as a foreigner among the Yemeni people.
Her experiences are both eye-opening, heart breaking, convicting and live readers asking, how strong are they to be able to do the same as Audra and her family.
Although the book shares about the Muslim women that Audra encountered and befriended, if you are expecting a "missionary book" about conversions, Audra doesn't focus on that; Instead, she focuses on the real life struggles and experiences of being a missionary family in the Middle East, learning both the languages and customs, sharing personal insights into the culture and on the trials that her and her family personally endure of times of sickness that they had encountered and how as Christians, sharing the Gospel with other faiths and culture.
This isn't really a book that focuses a lot on the Yemen women or culture, but rather is more like a personal biography of one missionary families experience, but it is still a compelling and fascinating read to look into.
***This book has been provided courtesy of Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.***
October 26, 2011
Behind the Veils of Yemen
By Audra Grace Shelby
Trusting God Must be Enough
Well, I always knew I wasn’t missionary material and reading this book confirmed it! I can love people but I have a hard time with dirt, germs and foreign food. However that does not keep me from wanting to see people reached for God, and I guess that is why I love to read a good missionary story.
This is one woman’s narrative of going into the Islamic community and blending in with the women there so that she could show them Jesus. She did literally become like one of them; learning their customs, mode of dress, and language. She made deep friendships with these women and saw a side of Islam that we never hear about. She also gave great insight into the heart and mind of a missionary and how they can leave it all behind to go to a foreign culture. Written in a beautiful and captivating style, this book is sure to capture the attention of any person who reads it. I read my copy in one sitting.
I always hope to walk away from a good book having learned something that applies directly to my life—wanting it to touch me in a positive way. This book did that but not in the way I expected. Although the story of the missionaries’ lives and the people they ministered to was touching, that is not where God met me. Instead He used this book and author to speak to me about a struggle I have been going through in my own life. God asked me personally, “Do you trust me enough without having to know why?” and I realized that I need to work on that one. This is a book that I will not soon forget. Read it—you will not be disappointed.
I received this complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers for this review. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed here are my own.
By Audra Grace Shelby
Trusting God Must be Enough
Well, I always knew I wasn’t missionary material and reading this book confirmed it! I can love people but I have a hard time with dirt, germs and foreign food. However that does not keep me from wanting to see people reached for God, and I guess that is why I love to read a good missionary story.
This is one woman’s narrative of going into the Islamic community and blending in with the women there so that she could show them Jesus. She did literally become like one of them; learning their customs, mode of dress, and language. She made deep friendships with these women and saw a side of Islam that we never hear about. She also gave great insight into the heart and mind of a missionary and how they can leave it all behind to go to a foreign culture. Written in a beautiful and captivating style, this book is sure to capture the attention of any person who reads it. I read my copy in one sitting.
I always hope to walk away from a good book having learned something that applies directly to my life—wanting it to touch me in a positive way. This book did that but not in the way I expected. Although the story of the missionaries’ lives and the people they ministered to was touching, that is not where God met me. Instead He used this book and author to speak to me about a struggle I have been going through in my own life. God asked me personally, “Do you trust me enough without having to know why?” and I realized that I need to work on that one. This is a book that I will not soon forget. Read it—you will not be disappointed.
I received this complimentary copy from Bethany House Publishers for this review. A positive review was not required and the opinions expressed here are my own.
September 30, 2013
The book started off really well and I was so intrigued to learn about the lives of Muslim women raised in Yemen. My heart went out the author's family during their trials and I was ecstatic to see God bring healing and deliverance to her family. The book opened my eyes to the culture of Muslim women and how they are treated and I hope this has given me a deeper compassion and respect towards them.
I was however disappointed as the book progressed as there was no in-depth revelations of what God did for the families/communities where the author visited. It would have been more exciting to read about the transformation of the Muslim women's lives as I believe according to the biography the author started to teach them sewing skills. Maybe she is planning a sequel? Overall it was still an enjoyable book.
I was however disappointed as the book progressed as there was no in-depth revelations of what God did for the families/communities where the author visited. It would have been more exciting to read about the transformation of the Muslim women's lives as I believe according to the biography the author started to teach them sewing skills. Maybe she is planning a sequel? Overall it was still an enjoyable book.
November 18, 2012
While I have faith, I wouldn't necessarily call myself religious at this point. I knew this would have a religion in it, but was hoping to see more of the life of Muslim women and if she had any impact. As another reviewer said, I see no evidence of anyone benefiting other than her friendship. Nobody got better food, water, education, etc. and nobody was converted as far as we can tell.
March 12, 2012
Didn't finish it, so shouldn't have clicked "read," but honestly couldn't get past the missionary focus of the writing in the first quarter of the book (not sure if it continues all the way through, but...); it was enough to turn me off from reading further.
April 18, 2025
2,5 stars
I have mixed feelings about this book.
This book was easy to read and I liked the shortness/length of the chapters.
I found the choice of stories within the book super random.
Audra served in the Middle East for 9 years, yet this book only captures their first 3 years - 2/3 of this book being the journey to and their language study in Yemen.
What was it about that tree in her garden? We never hear about Fatima again?
I believe God called Audra and her husband to Yemen. But I found it super hard to relate with Audra. I actually didn’t relate with her story or character at all.
The kind of questions she threw towards God and the kind of lessons she had to go through honestly made me wonder about her life in America before going to Yemen. She certainly had a relationship with God her whole life and I don’t want to seem judgmental. (I know everyone’s walk with God is a different one). Yet, this novel left me questioning her character and theology and overall belief system.
She seemed very insecure to me. And honestly I had my eyes rolling every-time she would apologize and blame herself in front of God because someone didn’t believe yet, or she didn’t “bear enough witness”. As if it is my responsibly that someone else is not a believer yet.
Also her big question “If I had grown up in Yemen and been taught Islam, would I…” - again I simply couldn’t relate. And she also never seemed to got her answer.
The way she encountered hardship and how she got into different hardship all over again - again couldn’t relate.
Also I would love to know more about the involvement of her sending organization within her life in Yemen. It seemed to me like they should’ve been more present and I was missing their support and guidance throughout their Yemen journey.
Nonetheless, this book is an honest review of a human being woman in missions. I honor her honesty and vulnerability - since this book doesn’t seem to have the greatest reviews in general as well…
I wouldn’t recommend this though for someone who’s never read any mission stories yet.
I have mixed feelings about this book.
This book was easy to read and I liked the shortness/length of the chapters.
I found the choice of stories within the book super random.
Audra served in the Middle East for 9 years, yet this book only captures their first 3 years - 2/3 of this book being the journey to and their language study in Yemen.
What was it about that tree in her garden? We never hear about Fatima again?
I believe God called Audra and her husband to Yemen. But I found it super hard to relate with Audra. I actually didn’t relate with her story or character at all.
The kind of questions she threw towards God and the kind of lessons she had to go through honestly made me wonder about her life in America before going to Yemen. She certainly had a relationship with God her whole life and I don’t want to seem judgmental. (I know everyone’s walk with God is a different one). Yet, this novel left me questioning her character and theology and overall belief system.
She seemed very insecure to me. And honestly I had my eyes rolling every-time she would apologize and blame herself in front of God because someone didn’t believe yet, or she didn’t “bear enough witness”. As if it is my responsibly that someone else is not a believer yet.
Also her big question “If I had grown up in Yemen and been taught Islam, would I…” - again I simply couldn’t relate. And she also never seemed to got her answer.
The way she encountered hardship and how she got into different hardship all over again - again couldn’t relate.
Also I would love to know more about the involvement of her sending organization within her life in Yemen. It seemed to me like they should’ve been more present and I was missing their support and guidance throughout their Yemen journey.
Nonetheless, this book is an honest review of a human being woman in missions. I honor her honesty and vulnerability - since this book doesn’t seem to have the greatest reviews in general as well…
I wouldn’t recommend this though for someone who’s never read any mission stories yet.
April 23, 2025
It’s taken a couple weeks since finishing this for me to figure out why I didn’t like it and here’s where I’ve landed. It didn’t seem like the author ever got to know the women behind the veils. She seems to go to a foreign land under the assumption that they needed her to revolutionize their life and entire belief system. It also seemed like she made it a point to show that she was better than other expats/christian/non-muslim they met because she wore the expected garb and was submissive to the men as expected. A lot of the stories started out captivating and I waited for the message they learned or the action she was able to take from the experience and it always petered out. Honestly, I’m sure they witnessed miracles in their time in Yemen but this book didn’t articulate them very well. I always believe you can start from somewhere of commonality and build but that was not her tactic. Giving this one star because of all these things but I really appreciated that she did take language lessons and seemed to be consistently mindful of the culture.
July 17, 2019
This was an engaging peek into missionary life in Yemen. It was fairly short and was very much an overview, not an indepth study. It discusses journey to Yemen and some of their experiences there during the first years. It focuses on several extremely difficult experiences they went through healthwise and how the kept faith in God and his plan for them in Yemen throughout it all. As it is such a different lifestyle and religion in Yemen, I would have loved a longer, deeper look at their missionary service, perhaps that will be forthcoming later? This was definitely worth reading though, the author has a very readable style though it just whet my appetite for more! To me, the main purpose in this book is to show how God taught the author to have faith no matter what the circumstances; I'd love to see a further book on their missionary service.
October 23, 2019
I love the fact that despite their hardships they trusted God to pull them through, but as some others have said I feel like Audra had tunnel vision. I agree that the most important part of being a missionary, or even just a believer in general, is to lead people to Christ, but I feel like she missed a lot of opportunities to learn about their culture and why the believe what they do instead of getting angry at what they believe and trying to prove them wrong. It was still a wonderful insight into the lives of the people of Yemen and I'm glad she told it.
October 1, 2023
For anyone who wants an inside view of the life of cross-cultural workers or Yemen, this is a great book to help you experience both. Audra Shelby shares her story of mission service with transparency and beauty, not being afraid to hide the struggles or trials in the process of following God's will. This is a great gift for anyone who has a desire to serve or pray for the people of the Middle East or Muslim world. It also helps Christians know how to better pray and support their local missionaries.
A recommended read.
A recommended read.
June 9, 2018
A very well-written book about missions in an incredibly difficult place. Shelby was able to draw me into the story so well that I cried when her husband was fighting for his life, I laughed as she danced with the lonely women behind the curtains, and reached near panic when her newborn was taken away from her in his struggle with pneumonia. I so appreciate the many unknown missionaries serving in oppressive, dark places so that Christ's light can shine.
October 13, 2023
Makes me want to pay harder for the middle East. Makes me want to go on the mission field, but mine is here in Scotland with my autistic children and newly discovered autistic self. Maybe my mission field will lie with the autistic community in the future too, but I'll always be drawn to overseas mission and one day, maybe lord, I will be able to go
June 18, 2017
Living among the Muslims as Christians
An interesting view of life in Yemen living among the Muslims as Christians. The family took the challenge to share their faith with their friends and neighbors. Living as the Yemen did. Quite interesting.
An interesting view of life in Yemen living among the Muslims as Christians. The family took the challenge to share their faith with their friends and neighbors. Living as the Yemen did. Quite interesting.
April 17, 2018
I loved this glimpse into Yemen and into this families lives. Audra’s battle with faith was relevant to all aspects of life and it was encouraging to read her raw honesty about it. I could have kept reading.
April 26, 2020
Loved this book! It does a great job of helping the readers understand Muslim culture, and I loved all of the medical references of it. I especially appreciated the intimacy of her prayers and the blatant statements of what God told her. I do not read that much, and really appreciated it.
July 5, 2020
I find these kind of books interesting , challenging and slightly irritating.
Hope now that preparation to work in Muslim countries is wider than the author and her family had. More to befriending people from another culture than learning their language.
Hope now that preparation to work in Muslim countries is wider than the author and her family had. More to befriending people from another culture than learning their language.
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