Muhammad's was a life of almost unparalleled historical importance; yet for all the iconic power of his name, the intensely dramatic story of the prophet of Islam is not well known. In The First Muslim, Lesley Hazleton brings him vibrantly to life. Drawing on early eyewitness sources and on history, politics, religion, and psychology, she renders him as a man in full, in all his complexity and vitality.  Impeccably researched and thrillingly readable, Hazleton's narrative creates vivid insight into a man navigating between idealism and pragmatism, faith and politics, nonviolence and violence, rejection and acclaim. The First Muslim illuminates not only an immensely significant figure but his lastingly relevant legacy.

This event will feature a short presentation from Dr. Dustin Byrd (MSU Department of Religious Studies), followed by small group discussions of the book led by graduate students and question and answer time with the author.  Free and open to the public.  Presented by MSU Muslim Studies Program and MSU Libraries.  Co-sponsored by East Lansing Public Library.

Please register in advance for this book discussion:

https://bookings.lib.msu.edu/event/7371460