The Faith Club
Non-fiction
By Ranya Idliby, Suzanne Oliver, and Priscilla Warner
Reviewed by Tiffani Williamson
5 out of 5 Stars
“A Muslim, a Christian, and a Jew — Three women search for understanding.”
September 11, 2001 affected America in more ways than one. One of the millions pressure by this tragic event was Ranya Idilby, an American Muslim of Palestinian descent. After what is now only described as “nine-eleven,” she faced constant questions from her children, the only Muslims in their classrooms, about Iran, death, and God. Inspired by a story about Muhammad, and to answer these questions for her children, and to understand herself, Ranya reached out to two other mothers- a Christian and a Jew. It became clear that the women themselves needed an honest and open environment where they could discuss, and admit, their concerns, misunderstandings, and stereotypes about one another after just a few short meetings of sipping tea and nibbling bars of dark chocolate. Hours of soul- searching about the issues that divided them past and Ranya- the Muslim, Suzanne- the ex- Catholic now attending an Episcopal Church, and Priscilla- the Jew, grew close enough to discover, and explore, what United them.
The Faith Club is an outstanding read for anyone who has a devoted faith, is discovering and exploring a new religion, or is of no belief at all. This journal- like story makes the reader feel as if they are eavesdropping on all the authors conversations, discussions, opinions, and conclusions; no matter how private, provocative, controversial, or politically incorrect.. The words of this story are perfectly written and constantly etched into your mind as your eyes scroll over the black ink. The readers will watch the uncurling of an interfaith friendship, and the birth of relating to others in a new way. This is a great novel and I recommend it to both women, and men, or all ages, even though it is directed at older audiences.
