Book excerpt: There are many shouts and screams-coming from a range of ideological backgrounds-competing for your ears, heart and mind in order to convince you of negative views regarding Isl¿m and Muslims. It would be unfair to accept these ideologically motivated narratives without question and without giving Muslims a chance explain the reality of what they believe in and practice and what Isl¿m means to them. Within this context, the book in your hands is a short primer that provides a brief yet concise introduction to Isl¿m. It discusses Isl¿m's most important foundations, pillars, obligations and major prohibitions and the wisdoms behind them. It also discusses morals and ethics, perfection of character, racism and Isl¿m's position towards extremism and terrorism. Finally, the status of women in Isl¿m and some related misconceptions are also discussed.