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Being Muslim
Since 9/11, the world has been confronted with the most volatile facets of Islam with little explanation of how or why these controversial elements developed. Written by one of North America's most honored journalists, Being Muslim presents an up-front and clear explanation of this complex and emotion-laden subject.
Although the varying branches of Islam are analyzed and their history outlined, the real focus of the book is on the present. In speaking about and crossing political, cultural, and religious divisions, the author offers a unique perspective based on life in Canada, a country in which diverse groups of people have found a way to live in peace. Aimed at young adults, the book offers invaluable insight to readers of all ages, cultures, and religious traditions.
Although the varying branches of Islam are analyzed and their history outlined, the real focus of the book is on the present. In speaking about and crossing political, cultural, and religious divisions, the author offers a unique perspective based on life in Canada, a country in which diverse groups of people have found a way to live in peace. Aimed at young adults, the book offers invaluable insight to readers of all ages, cultures, and religious traditions.
160 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2006
84 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 19, 2015
First what it's not. It's not the best place to learn about Islam, Muhammad, or the Qu'ran (a primer is offered the reader.) It's also not the best place to go for a politically neutral, objective look at U.S. foreign policy, and any but the most left-leaning reader will find the tone somewhat jarring in places.
What the book does well is provide the reader with ample facts and anecdotes and scenarios to persuade the reader that Islam as a religion and Muslims as a whole have been unfairly portrayed as radical and extremist; that the Qu'ran is unfairly and ignorantly characterized as engendering violence, and that post 9/11 Islamaphobia has contributed to the dehumanization of the Muslim community and prompted egregious deprivations of basic human rights and civil rights.
The journalist's writing is vigorous and spare, never tedious, with enough data to support claims, but not so much that reader gets mired in it.
What the book does well is provide the reader with ample facts and anecdotes and scenarios to persuade the reader that Islam as a religion and Muslims as a whole have been unfairly portrayed as radical and extremist; that the Qu'ran is unfairly and ignorantly characterized as engendering violence, and that post 9/11 Islamaphobia has contributed to the dehumanization of the Muslim community and prompted egregious deprivations of basic human rights and civil rights.
The journalist's writing is vigorous and spare, never tedious, with enough data to support claims, but not so much that reader gets mired in it.
February 12, 2016
I struggled between a 3 and 4 and rated up because I know so little about Muslim culture. This book did a reasonable job covering it. However, a more appropriate title might be "In defense of being Muslim." That's why I removed a star. It just made me sad that it was written so defensively vs. just presenting a beautiful culture. The first few chapters, and I understand why, so I am not criticizing, were written as if the author felt before he could say anything he had to present the context of a hostile Western environment. Likely for many audiences he is in fact right, but for me, not so much.
That said, there is a lot in here to learn from, especially given the climate of Islamic views in the US. I did not know most of what they talked about in the book related to prayer and woman. While I wouldn't be rid of the early chapters, I preferred the latter chapters which discussed more day to day life and clarified women, correcting many mis-understandings. I also liked the description of the different sects of muslim as they are quite different in the manner in which they behave.
That said, there is a lot in here to learn from, especially given the climate of Islamic views in the US. I did not know most of what they talked about in the book related to prayer and woman. While I wouldn't be rid of the early chapters, I preferred the latter chapters which discussed more day to day life and clarified women, correcting many mis-understandings. I also liked the description of the different sects of muslim as they are quite different in the manner in which they behave.
June 8, 2016
Worth reading - Not without bias, this book does create a bit of insight into Islam and American misconceptions connecting terrorism to a religion that has been stolen by extremists (not unlike the crusades of Christianity in the past). The one thing the author consistently did that bothered me was cling to the individualism of belief, then go against that notion to occasionally speak ill of others' beliefs. This book does have its place in human relations and is a good start for anyone who is searching for a more open worldview, but I wouldn't recommend this book as a source alone. Branch out and pair it with other similar works.
May 6, 2014
This was a very intriguing and interesting book. It definitely provides some background information about Islam, if you're not familiar with it. My one complaint...the author, on numerous occasions tries to justify some Muslims' actions by saying that other faiths have done such and such, which is worse. Wrong is wrong. All religions have done their share of wrong.
But like I said, this book is very informative if you can get past the anti-west writing (which at times, I do agree with...it's just over the top in parts of the book). An easy read about important information.
But like I said, this book is very informative if you can get past the anti-west writing (which at times, I do agree with...it's just over the top in parts of the book). An easy read about important information.
February 15, 2016
Really solid introduction to basically every major issue surrounding contemporary Islam in the West, from social tensions to theology. Also very sensitive to Western proclivities/misconceptions without pandering to them. Manages to be highly informative while also short enough to read in a few days - IDEAL.
June 22, 2022
For context of my review, a timeline is important. This book was written in 2006, in a post-9/11 Bush presidency in America. I purchased a revised version in 2015, shortly after its 4th printing, in a pre-Trump era. It sat on my shelf for roughly 7 years before I finally got around to reading it, hence my completion tonight.
Written by a Muslim Canadian, this book is a thumb guide to Islam, interspersed with political statistics and arguments defending this population against worldwide misinterpretation and bigotry. The ultimate issue is that while a passionate and well-intended work, the information is dated and the flow is choppy, making this work ultimately feel more like a poorly-aged political pamphlet than a serious work of nonfiction.
Not that the book is without merit. Even taking into account the outdated data and occasionally anecdotal liberties taken by the author, this can be seen as a sociological piece written by and in defense of an oppressed people circa 2006. In a world of Ms. Marvel and DJ Khaled, it's easy to forget the raw emotion evoked by Islamophobia some 16 (or even as little as 2) years ago, but Sidiqqi managed to capture the sentiment I felt so long ago. The author vividly took me back to my college years of defending a religion in many ways more peaceful and progressive than those looking down on it.
I cannot give this book merit as having stood the test of time, but ultimately give it 3 stars as a window into history and a single Muslim mind during the timeframe in which it was written. At 149 pages, it's a quick read, so if you're interested for the sociology aspect alone, it may be a simple distraction and thought provoking read. I certainly gained enough merit that I didn't regret my purchase.
Written by a Muslim Canadian, this book is a thumb guide to Islam, interspersed with political statistics and arguments defending this population against worldwide misinterpretation and bigotry. The ultimate issue is that while a passionate and well-intended work, the information is dated and the flow is choppy, making this work ultimately feel more like a poorly-aged political pamphlet than a serious work of nonfiction.
Not that the book is without merit. Even taking into account the outdated data and occasionally anecdotal liberties taken by the author, this can be seen as a sociological piece written by and in defense of an oppressed people circa 2006. In a world of Ms. Marvel and DJ Khaled, it's easy to forget the raw emotion evoked by Islamophobia some 16 (or even as little as 2) years ago, but Sidiqqi managed to capture the sentiment I felt so long ago. The author vividly took me back to my college years of defending a religion in many ways more peaceful and progressive than those looking down on it.
I cannot give this book merit as having stood the test of time, but ultimately give it 3 stars as a window into history and a single Muslim mind during the timeframe in which it was written. At 149 pages, it's a quick read, so if you're interested for the sociology aspect alone, it may be a simple distraction and thought provoking read. I certainly gained enough merit that I didn't regret my purchase.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2025
First, in the interest of full disclosure: Haroon is a good friend and someone I look to for rational advice.
This is a ‘primer’ that helps, in a succinct and tightly controlled narrative, to dispel the many myths that circulate and continue to be propounded about Islam. In doing so it introduces readers to quotes from the Quran, with interpretations to provide context and counter the many misconceived assumptions about Islam.
The author may come across as being biased, as some reviews on this site might suggest. However, if I approach any subject or author with a prejudice or, at the very least, an unconscious bias then I am likely to react to their contrarian view dismissively. It is therefore important to become an 'open book' oneself and to read with an open mind.
A very easy read. This book, together with Mohammad Mamdani’s Good Muslim Bad Muslim clear out the many religious and political views about Islam that have, and continue to be misrepresented and therefore misunderstood.
This is a ‘primer’ that helps, in a succinct and tightly controlled narrative, to dispel the many myths that circulate and continue to be propounded about Islam. In doing so it introduces readers to quotes from the Quran, with interpretations to provide context and counter the many misconceived assumptions about Islam.
The author may come across as being biased, as some reviews on this site might suggest. However, if I approach any subject or author with a prejudice or, at the very least, an unconscious bias then I am likely to react to their contrarian view dismissively. It is therefore important to become an 'open book' oneself and to read with an open mind.
A very easy read. This book, together with Mohammad Mamdani’s Good Muslim Bad Muslim clear out the many religious and political views about Islam that have, and continue to be misrepresented and therefore misunderstood.
May 27, 2022
A succinct, useful book that gives a broad overview of the current state of Islam worldwide and the main orthodox beliefs of Muslims. As a Christian who knows very little about Islam, I appreciated the relatively objective (albeit clearly Canadian left-leaning) perspective of the author.
The book gives many anecdotes, current statistics, and primary historical sources to back up the author’s political and theological points. The book does a great job of describing the current challenges and prejudices that Muslims face worldwide, but it also fairly critiques areas where the Arab and Islamic world could improve, especially in women’s rights.
Good read for anybody looking to understand Islam better! I have a deeper respect and appreciation for Muslim people than I did before reading this book.
The book gives many anecdotes, current statistics, and primary historical sources to back up the author’s political and theological points. The book does a great job of describing the current challenges and prejudices that Muslims face worldwide, but it also fairly critiques areas where the Arab and Islamic world could improve, especially in women’s rights.
Good read for anybody looking to understand Islam better! I have a deeper respect and appreciation for Muslim people than I did before reading this book.
May 17, 2018
This book for me was a good reminder and clarification of my points of view on the topics discussed. I definitely agree with the vast majority of the book and it was great to see a little bit more quantitative facts. It's definitely a point of view of the author however it's also a fair point of view. It's not an 'Islam is the best' type of book which is what a lot of books tend to become. It points out primarily that the West has demonized Islam and how the views are based on incomplete information.
March 2, 2020
Great pick for the "Dewey Dare" Reading Challenge at our local library. A book that I may not have picked up but was so glad I did. It has opened my mind and has educated me on a religion I had no idea what it was about. With over 1.3 billion muslims and a growing religion its important to learn more about each other and others believes. Information backed in only 148 pages!!
July 11, 2023
It's a basic overview of Islam and why stereotypes and myths have developed. There are chapters on politics, Europe, women, the faith, life of Mohammed, and jihad / terrorism. A good little book to read to avoid Islamophobia.
October 14, 2021
A eye-opening discussion of the real religious, political and social issues regarding Muslims and Westerners. This book topples the mainstream western narratives and biases.
December 27, 2021
Spoken plainly and covering a broad swatch of insights, yet reveals that there is much more to learn.
January 16, 2013
Being Muslim by Haroon Siddiqui is a great young adult as well as informational novel. The book consists of 144 pages and is about Islam post 9/11 and how it is perceived in the West. This book is an attempt to mend fences and bring two types of thoughts together, to personify Islam and defend the religion and the unfortunate circumstances that we have had to bear since 9/11. In the book the author travels to different Muslim country's and interview's experts. The novel examines the impact of terrorism on Muslims and justifies how Islam doesn't lead people to be violent however the opposite. The author shows how extremists are being challenged by a new generation and tackle controversial topics, from being terrorists to women being ostracized. Personally I liked the book however, I feel like it can not be used as a justification for whats happening around the world today. The authors vast research on Islam helps tackle different topics and I feel like it was a great and interesting read.
May 17, 2008
Wooooo, lately I've been reading about 5 sentences a week. On to the book, it's a shame all because I feel these are the books about Islam that really say the blunt yet the unscathed truth. I could refer to this in many ways, again I just didn't enjoy how he wanted to show the lovely dandy side of things. How we are all humans embrace, feel the togetherness. Meh I don't know if you want to get a good book about misconceptions of pretty basic Islamic opinions and how we aren't all wanting to engage in war, This is the book to read.
August 14, 2013
This book offers a basic explanation of the history, beliefs, traditions, and people of Islam. As someone who was seeking to understand more about the religion, Being Muslim offers a good introduction. However, the author adapted an almost apologetic tone as he defended certain passages and practices, and stumbled through a bunch of fallacies in his attempt to paint Islam in a more favorable light. Despite this, the book did present a thorough examination of Islam and Muslims in a way that makes it easy for someone with little background in the area to understand.
March 12, 2008
I've never read such a well thought-out book on religion. I've been studying Islam on and off since I was in middle school, and this book made the Muslim experience more tangible than any other I've read. More importantly, it tackles many current issues like the war in Iraq, Muslim women, and the protests over the Danish cartoons depicting the prophet Muhammed.
August 9, 2009
I confess I didn't finish reading this book because it was full of statistics and such, which is just fine, but not what I was looking for. I thought it was about people's stories about being Muslim, especially after 9-11. I did have an interesting perspective coming from Canadian Muslims that I hadn't expected.
January 29, 2015
I liked this book but I felt that there wasn't enough information on the actual religion. I went into this book not knowing much at all and found myself lost within the first chapter. I learned a lot about the views of the author and some Muslim people but I ended the book not knowing that much more than when I started it.
May 5, 2008
Very informative. Muslims by region/language (Turkic 135 Million) Comedians, Food etiquette, women leaders and in the family, Rap music, Muslim grievances and articulation vs theology, religious pluralism
July 18, 2013
It loses one star for starting a little on the pedantic side, but after that it gets awesome. Lots of really interesting information you don't get in every book about Islam. He covers a little bit of everything, and does so in an interesting way.
April 29, 2015
This book is classified in my local library as for Teens, but it seems adult-oriented to me. This is a no-holds-barred, angry rundown of what Islam really is and how it gets interpreted and misinterpreted around the world. Very interesting, very adult. A little TOO angry at times. Non-fiction
November 17, 2015
A perfect primer on Islam, this book is a quick yet informative read that shuts down stereotype and corrects misinformation. Adding it to my list of definite must reads for anyone we feels the call to actually educate themselves about Islam.
January 4, 2016
Although I did learn some new things, I did not feel like this was an unbiased account. Worth the read but I feel I need to dig a little deeper into understanding Islam. However, it was comforting to learn that not all Muslims are terrorists Donald Trump.
August 28, 2007
an intelligent, brief-yet-dense introduction to Islamic faith, contemporary issues, culture, and intra-Islamic diversity. a great read for non-Muslims interested in what it is to be Muslim...
May 27, 2008
The Author did a good job in exploring the challenges that face muslims in the west, and explaining the basic Islam principles.
August 21, 2016
I read this for research and found that this book gave me an overall view of being Muslim. It was very helpful to me in understanding the life of a muslim.
June 13, 2017
A very insightful read tackling current issues. Highly recommend.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews