Islam di mata orang Jepang Ulil, Gus Dur, sampai Ba'asyir

The reviews highlight the book's significant contribution through its unique perspective, coming from a Japanese Buddhist sociologist researching Islam in Indonesia. Readers praise the author's ability to offer deep insights into various interpretations of Islam, effectively challenging common misconceptions, particularly the automatic association of fundamentalism with terrorism. The book is commended for illustrating how diverse Muslim figures, from liberal to fundamentalist, ultimately share a common desire for peace and betterment rooted in Islamic teachings. Reviewers appreciate the author's engaging and accessible writing style, which manages to tackle complex and sensitive subjects with lightness and humor, making the content enjoyable and thought-provoking. Many found the book to be more mature and compelling than the author's previous work, with its comprehensive interviews providing a valuable window into the nuanced realities of Islam in Indonesia.

Despite the praise, some reviewers expressed reservations. A recurring point of criticism concerns the perceived lack of depth in the author's exploration of certain sensitive topics, such as the portrayal of Islam as terrorist or fundamentalist. Some felt the book primarily recounted experiences and interviews without delving sufficiently into deeper analysis, leading to a less profound impact compared to expectations or the author's previous work. Concerns were also raised about the author's categorization of Muslim groups into "fundamentalist" and "liberal," with some reviewers questioning whether the interviewed figures would agree with such labels, even if used in a broad sense. Additionally, a few readers hoped for a broader discussion on how Japanese people generally view Islam, rather than a specific focus on Indonesian Islam, and noted the absence of interviews with certain key figures that could have offered an even more comprehensive overview.

Overall, the book is highly regarded for its objective and balanced portrayal of Islam in Indonesia through the eyes of an outsider. It is consistently recommended for its ability to foster dialogue, challenge preconceived notions, and underscore the unifying message of peace inherent in Islam, despite the diversity of interpretations. The book serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking a fresh, non-Muslim perspective on Islamic thought and practice in Indonesia. It is particularly suitable for open-minded readers, those looking to broaden their understanding of religious diversity, and individuals interested in the cultural and social dynamics of Islam in the Indonesian context.