Positives Reviewers frequently praise the book for its informative and engaging journalistic style, offering an accessible introduction to complex topics concerning Muslim women in the Middle East. Many found it well-researched, enriched by the author's personal experiences, interviews, and observations from her time as a foreign correspondent. The book is lauded for its ability to differentiate between the teachings of the Quran, the Hadith, and various cultural practices, providing a nuanced view of how these elements shape women's lives across different regions like Iran, Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. Readers appreciated its role in breaking some stereotypes and providing a snapshot of women's experiences, often highlighting the diversity of their situations and beliefs. It is seen as an eye-opener for those previously unfamiliar with the subject matter.
Negatives Despite its strengths, the book draws significant criticism, primarily regarding its perceived bias and outdated information. Many reviewers felt the author, an outsider, presented a polemical perspective, focusing on extreme examples and failing to adequately separate cultural practices from Islamic tenets. Critics argue that the book's portrayal of Muslim women can be monolithic or Eurocentric, often overlooking the experiences of women from less privileged backgrounds or those living in more tolerant Muslim communities outside the Middle East. Concerns were also raised about the author's interpretation of religious texts, her choice of words, and the book's overall agenda, which some felt aimed to highlight Islam's negative aspects. Furthermore, as the book was published in the mid-1990s, many readers noted that its information is now considerably dated, making some of its observations less relevant to contemporary conditions.
Conclusion Overall, the book is considered a valuable, albeit flawed, starting point for understanding the challenges and realities faced by some Muslim women in the Middle East during a specific historical period. While it offers a compelling, story-driven overview, readers are strongly advised to approach it with a critical eye, recognizing its limitations in scope, potential biases, and the passage of time since its publication. It is recommended for those seeking an initial, engaging introduction to the topic and a historical perspective on the rise of fundamentalism. However, it is not presented as a definitive or unbiased resource and should be supplemented with more contemporary works, particularly those written by Muslim women themselves, to gain a more balanced and comprehensive understanding of the diverse experiences within the Islamic world.
