Defending Muḥammad in Modernity

*Lord of the Flies* by William Golding is a classic novel that explores the darker side of human nature through the story of a group of boys stranded on a deserted island. As they attempt to govern themselves and form a society, their initial attempts at order quickly devolve into chaos, savagery, and violence. The boys' descent into brutality is symbolized through the conflict between two leaders: Ralph, who strives for civilization and rescue, and Jack, who embraces the primal instincts of power and control. The novel examines themes of civilization vs. barbarism, the loss of innocence, and the inherent violence within humanity. Through its stark portrayal of how quickly societal norms can break down, *Lord of the Flies* serves as a powerful critique of human nature and the fragility of social order.

*Mornings in Jenin* by Susan Abulhawa is a poignant and powerful novel that spans several decades, telling the story of a Palestinian family whose lives are profoundly affected by the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The novel centers around the Abulheja family, whose home in the West Bank town of Jenin is destroyed during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. The narrative follows the lives of several generations, particularly focusing on the struggles and resilience of the protagonist, Amal, as she grows up in a refugee camp, grapples with the loss of her family members, and contends with the trauma of displacement. Through vivid storytelling, *Mornings in Jenin* paints a deeply human portrait of the Palestinian experience—capturing the pain of exile, the loss of homeland, and the hope for a better future despite the violence and suffering. The novel is an emotional exploration of love, survival, and the impact of political conflict on personal lives, offering readers a deeply empathetic view into the complexities of the Middle East and the ongoing struggle for peace and justice.

*The Serpent's Shadow* by Rick Riordan is the third book in *The Kane Chronicles*, a thrilling series that blends Egyptian mythology with modern-day adventure. The story follows siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who are magicians descended from ancient Egyptian pharaohs. In this final installment, the Kanes face their greatest challenge yet: they must stop the evil serpent god Apophis from plunging the world into chaos and destruction. With the help of their friends and the gods of Egypt, they embark on a perilous journey filled with magic, danger, and betrayal. As they race against time, Carter and Sadie must also grapple with their own powers and their growing responsibility as protectors of the ancient world. *The Serpent's Shadow* is packed with action, humor, and heart, making it a fitting conclusion to the epic trilogy.

*Why Nations Go to War* by John G. Stoessinger is a comprehensive analysis of the causes of war, examining both historical and contemporary conflicts to understand why nations engage in violent conflict. The book explores various political, social, and psychological factors that lead to war, including national ambitions, misperceptions, fear, and the roles of individual leaders. Stoessinger uses case studies of major wars, such as World War I, the Vietnam War, and the Gulf War, to highlight how misunderstandings, unchecked power, and the failure of diplomacy contribute to the escalation of conflicts. The book also emphasizes the human cost of war and the importance of understanding the deeper, often irrational motivations behind international conflict. *Why Nations Go to War* is an insightful and accessible work for readers interested in international relations, political science, and the complexities of global conflict.