The War Within Our Hearts

Gr 8 Up—This advice book for Muslim teens covers such topics as alcohol, modesty, music, pornography, the Internet, friends, suicide, abuse, and more. The authors adhere to a fairly strict interpretation of the Qu'ran, so there is no reference whatsoever to dating and they advocate as much separation of the genders as possible. There is also no reference to LGBTQ issues, which is in keeping with the conservative tenor of the book. The approach is positive, encouraging young Muslims to be respectful of both themselves and others. The cover and chapter titles would suggest that the language is teen-friendly, but the tone of the text is academic, dealing more with the Qu'ranic justifications for Islamic law than with helpful advice for reconciling these laws with Western culture. This volume will certainly be what some Muslim teens are looking for, but will not appeal to all. The lack of an index also impedes access to information. Dilara, Iman, & Yasmine Hafiz's The American Muslim Teenager's Handbook (Acacia, 2007) covers similar material with a more liberal and teen-friendly approach. Purchase where titles of a more conservative nature are needed.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library System, OH