The Faith Development Office of the Unitarian Universalist Association is publishing a three-part, free, online discussion guide for the new Skinner House book, Muhammad: The Story of a Prophet and Reformer, by Sarah Conover.

The book offers younger readers and those who read with them “an encounter with a man quite different from the Muhammad often seen in Western popular culture,” according to publicity for the book. Conover relates the story of a radical prophet who challenged the rich and powerful, guided his community of followers through a dangerous time of persecution and exile, formed alliances with people of different beliefs, and preached “love for humanity what you love for yourself.”

Part One of the discussion guide is available now. It includes a 75-minute workshop for people aged 10 and up, using art and discussion to build knowledge about Islam and compare it to Unitarian Universalism.

Parts Two and Three of the discussion guide will be published later this fall and will be designed for combined groups of youth and adults. Part Two will explore contemporary stereotypes of Muslims. Part Three will examine interfaith relationships, including the interfaith roots of Unitarianism.

Conover is also co-author of Ayat Jamilah: Beautiful Signs: A Treasury of Islamic Wisdom for Children and Parents.

About the Author

Don Skinner

Don Skinner is editor of InterConnections and a member of the Shawnee Mission UU Church in Lenexa, Kansas.

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