Aggressive evangelism by Christians and Muslims has been producing increasing conflict between these two great religions, especially on the African continent.

This volume is an attempt to help Christians understand the Muslim view of God and the world. It is informative and clear.

Some of the guidelines for understanding are simple; others more complex. Followers of Islam are not Muhammadans. Only God is God, and they are his followers. They should not be named after even someone as important as the Prophet.

Muslims consider Jews, Christians and themselves to be the people of the Book: the law of Moses and the Torah and the message of Jesus, the gospels. All three also share Abraham, but Christians have strayed from the one God by calling Jesus his son.

If the editor has an agenda, it is to open understanding between Christians and Muslims and decrease mounting tensions: "(The) mountains of hatred and ill will can begin to dissipate only as people of goodwill on each side make the appropriate effort. Certainly North America is an ideal location for this process to begin."

The first Muslims came to North America with the Spaniards, perhaps Columbus himself, then involuntarily through slavery. Today Muslims arrive by immigration or they are African-American converts, according to the editor.

Increasingly we may have Muslim neighbors, friends, co-workers or relatives by marriage, and this book provides information for sensitivity to holy days, and food restrictions. The book contains seven appendices that add to the reader's information.

(The Very Rev.) ROBERT A. L'HOMME

Peoria, Ill.