The Jewel of Medina-Controversy

“The Jewel of Medina” is a novel about the early life of A’isha, one of the many wives to the Prophet Muhammad that has ignited strong opinions pertaining to its characterization amongst many people in society. Ballintine Books canceled its publication in August fearing it would offend and ignite Muslim Extremists. Gibson Square, an independent publishing company felt it was without question that the novel should be published. One of their publishers, Martin Rynja, has been quoted in The New York Times stating, “In an open society there has to be an access to literary works, regardless of fear.” One early Saturday morning Mr. Ryjna’s house in North London was set on fire by three religious extremists. These religious extremists are not alone in the fight against publishing this sensitive novel. Thomas Perry, deputy publisher of Random House Publish Group, and Denise Spellberg, an associate professor of History at the University of Texas, both believe the book shouldn’t be published to the public. Thomas Perry believes that by publishing the novel violence will erupt from small radical segments. Denise Spellberg was quoted in The Journal stating the novel is “an ugly, stupid piece of work,” and that it’s like porn. The author Ms. Jones blatantly disagrees with Denise Spellberg childish characterization of her book and encourages many people to read her novel in order to recognize how the novel is being lied about. She says she doesn’t worry about dying but instead how she is living. Ms. Jones is exceptionally expressive and believes it is one of the keys to life. Mr. Kampmann, president of Beaufort books believes in standing behind the publication of the book. He however believed in taking precautions in publishing the book. He characterizes the novel through a quote in The New York Times as a “credible historical fiction.”
In my opinion, this article illustrates religious extremism, matters towards freedom of speech and censorship, as well as religious beliefs. I believe Ms. Jones book should be published and that although there is going to be religious extremists whom want to intimidate her, the publishing companies, and citizens in general, she should still have her right to freedom of speech and be proud of her work. I believe that the people who characterize the book in a bad light are narrow minded and incompetent to the Muslim religion. Denise Spellberg doesn’t strike me as a very sophisticated professor when I read the quotes she has to say about the novel. She seems a bit childish in her description and I honestly expect a bit more from a college professor when giving their input on a novel or any subject for the matter. I believe the religious extremists of who use violence as a tactic to intimidate the society on the topic of the book need to have a more open mind. I don’t believe Ms. Jones is intentionally trying to offend the Muslim religion. In the article various different people like Mr. Kampmann, Thomas Perry, and Martin Rynja believe Ms. Jones’ novel was, if anything, pro-Muslim. I believe in freedom of speech and think that the book should be published for the society to interpret instead of just half a dozen people.