Nonie Darwish

Being a student of Egyptian Arabic and having a number of Egyptian internet friends, I can tell you that everything written is the truth.

As a young woman I dated a lot of Egytian men who act and do things here that they would not dare over there.

Honor killing is still happening. Sex before marriage is both against the state religion and the law, so you are condemned twice, plus your family's decision on what to do about it, and whatever they choose is bad news for the girl.

One of my teachers who left Islam said living in Egypt was like living in the 'Dark Ages '.

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Overall: some interesting insights into Egyptian culture and definitely worth a read. However, not as strong as Ayaan Hirsi Ali's "Infidel".

Strengths: Reveals how Muslim politicians manipulate populace into blind hatred of Israel, America and the West. Also shows how poorly women are treated in modern Muslim society and attempts to provide answers as to why moderate muslims in the west don't speak up against the Wahabbists. The most powerful part is how she's able to forgive and love those who killed her father. She's also able to objectively evaluate his role in this whole process.

Weaknesses: Like I said, definitely not as riveting or moving as Ayaan Hirsi Ali's "Infidel" nor as well written. Overall, the book didn't flow as smoothly as I would have hoped and also more religious theory/background would have been useful.… (more)