I'm only about a quarter of the way through this book. But it is such a timely read given the current situation in Iraq! I think this book will help clarify for me why such violence is ongoing there. Nawaz states his goal for writing the book is to break down the generalizations put forth by both Islamists and Americans. His hope is that by using his experiences within an Islamist Extremist organization and in a mainstream American environment, he can explain the complexities behind such generalities.
The first few chapters describe his own experiences as a youth in England and the random violence against him and his Pakinstani family and friends -- perpetuated by bigoted "skinheads" who mindlessly attacked solely on the basis of skin color. He quickly learned to defend himself and found himself searching for relief from the incomprehensible violence waged against him. It wasn't long before he was approached by a charismatic leader from an Islamist extremist group -- and the propaganda that he spun seemed to make sense to Nawaz and his brother. They were won over to that cause.
One important distinction he makes is the difference between Islamic faith and Islamist Extremist...the latter having very little to do with faith and everything to do with a political agenda.
Fascinating read.
Very interesting. I wonder if this could account for the Tsarnaev brothers' turn to extremism. What is it about promoting hate...I just don't get it!
ReplyDeletePatty, I don't get it either. And so sad and scary that it seems to be so prevalent in societies all across the globe! I'm anxious to get to the part in his story when he denounces extremism and what led him to do so.
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