How Muslims Shaped the Americas

Journalist Omar Mouallem's book "How Muslims Shaped the Americas" explores the history of Muslim communities in the West, challenging assumptions about identity and belonging. Mouallem travels to thirteen unique mosques to discover how Islam has survived and thrived in the Americas, meeting members of fascinating communities who provide different perspectives on what it means to be Muslim. He discovers that Islam has played a significant role in shaping the Americas, from industrialization to politics, and that there may be a place for Islam in his own life, even if he will never be a true believer. The book offers an original and insightful perspective on a secret history of home and the struggle for belonging in towns and cities across the Americas, pointing to a more inclusive future for all.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 14 March 2024
Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Journalist Omar Mouallem delves into the captivating history of Muslim communities flourishing in the Western world, shattering preconceived notions about identity and belonging. In his award-winning book, he weaves a beautifully written narrative that challenges societal norms and sheds light on the untold stories of Muslims in the Americas.

Omar Mouallem, raised in a Muslim household, grappled with the role of Islam throughout his life. As an adult, he used his platform to critique organized religion, yet his identity remained largely unchanged. As a father, he worries about the challenges his children will face in a growingly nativist and hostile Western world.

In his book, How Muslims Shaped the Americas, Mouallem embarks on a journey to explore the hidden history of Islam across the Americas. He visits thirteen unique mosques, seeking answers to the enduring success of this religion far from its origins. From California to Quebec, Brazil to Canada's icy north, he encounters diverse communities, each offering unique perspectives on what it means to be a Muslim.

Through his travels, Mouallem gains a profound understanding of Islam's influence on the shaping of the Americas. He witnesses the impact of industrialization, political changes, and social movements on Muslim communities. He also discovers that Islam may have a place in his own life, even if he remains an agnostic.

How Muslims Shaped the Americas is a groundbreaking work that offers original insights and a beautifully told narrative. It unveils a secret history of home and the struggle for belonging unfolding in towns and cities across the Americas. The book points toward a more inclusive and harmonious future for all, challenging societal norms and promoting understanding and acceptance.

Omar Mouallem's book is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Muslim communities in the Western world. It sheds light on the complexities of identity, religion, and cultural integration, and encourages readers to embrace diversity and inclusivity. Through his storytelling, Mouallem inspires us to look beyond stereotypes and recognize the contributions of all communities to the rich tapestry of the Americas.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 210 x 140 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501199165