From the preface of the 1954 version of the book... It is noticeable that the American Moslems, who were born in this country, are lacking the necessary knowledge concerning the Islamic law with which the Moslem’s actions must conform. The lack of this very needed knowledge is resultant of many factors, mainly the lack of the English authorities to which an earnest learner can appeal. As far as I know, there is no English book which contains the needed instructions concerning the Islamic laws. There are several pamphlets containing very brief descriptions in respect to prayer without detail, but this is not all that a good Moslem needs.