Islam is one of the biggest monotheistic religions worldwide and in many ways it is also one of the most feared. This new book gives a fascinating insight into the belief system that affects every single action of its followers in a way that is both informative and engaging. Some of the rules might be hard to understand, let alone accept, but Dr. Brewton presents an objective and secular view of a religion that is anything but secular. Phenomena Magazine - Sept '23 ~ Phenomena Magazine, Review

A number of other books on the subject have attempted this approach, but too often fall prey to overt or covert prejudices that wind up attacking Islam's deepest contentions in an effort to make the contrast favorable to Christian beliefs. Another difference between Charles H. Brewton's approach and others is his focus on the concepts of Sharia Law, which are embedded into democratic principles and Christian history, as well as Muslim faith. A third important note is that Muslim Mechanics assumes no prior familiarity with either Christian or Muslim concepts. This allows those with varying levels of familiarity with either faith to fully engage with a coverage that clarifies the basic concepts which drive the Muslim faith and life choices. Brewton doesn't neglect the political ramifications of his subject, either: "The inquiries about who is Muslim and who is not, and under what conditions and circumstances, are critical questions for Islamic fundamentalists. They are fundamental questions for jihadis since takfir is pivotal to identify the enemies who must be fought and killed. The issue of takfir was one of the significant contention points in the conflict between Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. Al-Qaeda holds the more moderate position, according to which takfir applies to selected individuals. In contrast, IS leaders use it more freely and do not hesitate to brand as heretical entire movements, communities, or sects, such as the Shi'ites." This approach allows for a much greater depth of understanding of not just Muslim faith, but the foundation concepts that drive political and cultural entities either together or apart. The contrasts in political approaches influenced by Muslim beliefs and perceptions lend to a special form of enlightenment not usually proffered in simple contrasts of belief systems: "Several Muslim nations such as Egypt, Jordan, and even Saudi Arabia have found that having political relations with Israel can improve security, trade, and economic opportunity. Some Muslim countries like Iran and Syria cannot let go of historical and contemporary enmity. The issue of whose God has sovereignty in this land has created the overall schism." The result is a wide-ranging connection between faith and social and political history and choices. Muslim Mechanics, The View From Behind the Curtain ideally will be chosen for all kinds of library holdings, but is especially highly recommended for book club and debate groups interested in the connections between belief systems and their social and political incarnations. The ability of Muslim Mechanics to reach all kinds of audiences with clear enlightenment about these special connections makes it a top recommendation over other books which too often contrast beliefs without showing how these are reflected in real-world political and social actions. ~ Midwest Book Review, Review

I hope you can already tell, here in Muslim Mechanics: The View from Behind the Curtain by author Charles H. Brewton, everybody, no matter who they are, what religion they worship, what color their skin is, or where they live, can be brought up to date on Islam, and how it impacts on the cultures that surround it, whilst at the same time giving us all a glimpse into not only how to peacefully exist with God, but what the future might also hold. FULL REVIEW: https://annecarlini.com/ex_books.php?id=471 ~ Exclusive Magazine, Review

Muslim Mechanics: The View from Behind the Curtain sounds like a reference book on Islamic engineering; close but not quite. Charles H. Brewton delves into the workings of the needs and wants of Muslims as consumers by studying Islam as a religion, as an organization, as a social institution, and the rules that make it unique. It attempts to explore the rules governing laws that Muslims follow. It begins by tracing the shared and divergent histories of Christianity and Islam and gives a review of the Qur’an. It also devotes space to Islamic Fundamentals and Sharia Law, as well as the different categories of Muslims and who are the major players. It then examines the population growth of Muslims and where the faith is headed. So what’s in it for you? Much of the western world is not familiar with Islam and its customs and beliefs. In a contemporary setting that embraces globalization and diversity, it is important to understand Islam as a way of life, a form of government, and a social structure with standard norms that Muslims adhere to as a guide for the way they conduct themselves whether it be political, social, economic, or personal. Charles H. Brewton expertly presents the ethical and moral foundations of economic relations based on the distinction between halal and haram under Sharia Law. I believe that this book has plenty to offer to anyone interested in the anatomy of Islam and how to better engage in personal and professional dealings with our Muslim brothers and sisters. I especially recommend Muslim Mechanics to those interested in Islamic studies and business entities that want to get a better grasp of Islamic consumerism. 5 stars ~ Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite, https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/muslim-mechanics

“Muslims Mechanics: The View from Behind the Curtain” by Charles H. Brewton presents itself as an explanation of the Islam way of life. Its target audience, it seemed to me, is American Christians; although the author compares it with Judaism and Buddhism as well. Brewton presents his research and analysis through an unbiased, factual perspective. The information presented to the reader is structured in different Chapters that go from Islam’s links to the Bible, through origins and content of The Qur’an, Islamic beliefs, Stand of Fundamentalist Islam in some Issues to Muslim-Jewish Enmity, Islam Demographic, Growth Analysis and where Islam is headed. As a theology and philosophy enthusiast and the mother-in-law of a Muslim, I was drawn to this title immediately. I found that the author did a thorough and accurate historical research of Islam. Brewton’s writing was both impeccable and easy to read. His writing style was able to grasp my attention from beginning to end through a type of content that undoubtedly could have become monotonous and boring at any given moment. That tells a lot about his talent as a writer, but I also was impressed on how he was able to analyze the different religions through his business background lens. Having said that, that same fact that his background was business and not theology, might lead some to question credibility in his analysis on this topic. I did not have a problem with the fact that his Bio didn’t show a theology background because anyone who is part of a belief system has a lifetime of experience on it. However, I would love to have seen the opinion of an Imam or Islam professor about his analysis included as commentary at the end of the book. Without it, to me the book seemed unilateral and somewhat from an observer point of view. Overall, I enjoyed reading “Muslims Mechanics: The View from Behind the Curtain” by Charles H. Brewton and found it to be a significant historical and cultural explanation of the Islam way of life peeking in from the outside. A great effort to help others understand Islam culture, “Muslim Mechanics” is a 4 star read in my book. ~ Reviewed by Susan Violante for Reader Views (01/2023), https://readerviewsarchives.wordpress.com/2023/01/04/muslim-mechanics-brewton/

Muslim Mechanics: The View from Behind the Curtain by Charles H. Brewton is the singular book anyone needs to read for them to understand Islam. Unlike anything I have read on Islam, this book answers the question: Why do Muslims do what they do? The author takes readers through history, examining the animosity between Sunni Muslims and Shiite Muslims, the cultural, historical, political, and religious implications of the Sharia Law as well as the rules and governing laws that Muslims follow. The book explores the expansion of major religions — Christianity, Islam, and Judaism — while offering a compelling comparison and what creates the differences between these religions. In this book, readers will discover the links between Islam and the Bible, get insights into the Qur’an, find a compressive examination of the core Islamic beliefs, and a lot more. Muslim Mechanics: The View from Behind the Curtain by Charles H. Brewton is both eye-opening and informative, a book that explains what happens in Islam, from their fundamental laws to sharia finance, from Islamic democracy to growth and market share. The author identifies the key stakeholders and players in the Islamic organization and makes predictions for the future. The writing is fluid and confident and Brewton provides fascinating details that give color and life to a dazzling portrait of Islam explored in this book. There are numerous historical and social commentaries that provide context for the work. Brewton comes across as an expert on the growth and exposure of major religions and this book is a powerful tool for anyone, especially Westerners, who want to understand the inner workings of Islam and its structure. Muslim Mechanics: The View from Behind the Curtain is extensively researched and intelligently written. ~ Reviewed by Matthew Novak for The Book Commentary, https://thebookcommentary.com/review-preview/964/muslim-mechanics

Muslim Mechanics, The View From Behind the Curtain offers a primer on Muslims for Christian readers, and should be considered an essential ingredient in fostering understanding between the religions of the world. A number of other books on the subject have attempted this approach, but too often fall prey to overt or covert prejudices that wind up attacking Islam's deepest contentions in an effort to make the contrast favorable to Christian beliefs. Another difference between Charles H. Brewton's approach and others is his focus on the concepts of Sharia Law, which are embedded into democratic principles and Christian history, as well as Muslim faith. A third important note is that Muslim Mechanics assumes no prior familiarity with either Christian or Muslim concepts. This allows those with varying levels of familiarity with either faith to fully engage with a coverage that clarifies the basic concepts which drive the Muslim faith and life choices. Brewton doesn't neglect the political ramifications of his subject, either: "The inquiries about who is Muslim and who is not, and under what conditions and circumstances, are critical questions for Islamic fundamentalists. They are fundamental questions for jihadis since takfir is pivotal to identify the enemies who must be fought and killed. The issue of takfir was one of the significant contention points in the conflict between Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. Al-Qaeda holds the more moderate position, according to which takfir applies to selected individuals. In contrast, IS leaders use it more freely and do not hesitate to brand as heretical entire movements, communities, or sects, such as the Shi’ites." This approach allows for a much greater depth of understanding of not just Muslim faith, but the foundation concepts that drive political and cultural entities either together or apart. The contrasts in political approaches influenced by Muslim beliefs and perceptions lend to a special form of enlightenment not usually proffered in simple contrasts of belief systems: "Several Muslim nations such as Egypt, Jordan, and even Saudi Arabia have found that having political relations with Israel can improve security, trade, and economic opportunity. Some Muslim countries like Iran and Syria cannot let go of historical and contemporary enmity. The issue of whose God has sovereignty in this land has created the overall schism." The result is a wide-ranging connection between faith and social and political history and choices. Muslim Mechanics, The View From Behind the Curtain ideally will be chosen for all kinds of library holdings, but is especially highly recommended for book club and debate groups interested in the connections between belief systems and their social and political incarnations. The ability of Muslim Mechanics to reach all kinds of audiences with clear enlightenment about these special connections makes it a top recommendation over other books which too often contrast beliefs without showing how these are reflected in real-world political and social actions. ~ Reviewed by D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review and Editor, Donovan's Literary Services, http://www.midwestbookreview.com/

As an infantryman with the U.S. Army from 2001-2005, I was deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq and experienced the Islamic culture first hand. Cultural diversity is an important aspect in the military, law enforcement, and business communities. In my experience, the ultimate question during any controversy, conflict, or debate has always been "why". More specifically, "why me". Taking time to explain the "why" paves the road for a positive outcome. Dr. Brewton provides a foundation to answer that question for this topic. Muslim Mechanics is a tool for building cultural diversity on the religious plane. ~ Lieutenant Brandon Maynard, Sumner County Sheriff's Office, TN

Required reading… Few give a better insight into the dynamics of the worlds leading religions, their history, their impacts on the cultures that exist today and a glimpse of what the future might hold. Charles Brewton acknowledges that he began his studies for a selfish reason, to better understand Islam as well as his own religious beliefs. I am glad he has turned his lengthy working into this book for all to share. ~ Lieutenant General Dennis D. Cavin, US Army, (Retired)

The text is based on history and well researched. It uncovers Sharia Law not as a code for interaction but a way to exist with God. The most interesting sections delve into the question of violence and waging war as extensions of Islam. Notably it explains how non-Muslims have been treated in Muslim countries traditionally and today due to the globalization of the economy. Considering Islam as a peaceful religion is extremely difficult even though so many leaders--Muslim and not--have made that claim. Those leaders may be ignorant or patronizing. Their deception might have deterred acts of terrorism. However, the deception continues a Great Lie that has ongoing implications, namely covering up the violence that is expected by Muslims. Unintentionally Muslim communities encourage emigration to non-Muslim countries. Muslims living in poverty and war are frequent immigrants to nations with greater wealth and tolerance. Often it is the hard line of Muslim leaders in those nations who precipitate the conditions that cause Muslims to flee. Islam is anti-capitalist and its laws have retarded the development of many countries. Furthermore, when Muslims migrate to the U.S., the expectations of a capitalist democracy are heretical to them. Devout Muslims will always be troubled by Western law because they cannot see humans as subservient to Islam. Humans, the writers of laws, are less than God. Therefore, human law is insignificant. The book includes charts and data that reveals the growth of Christianity and Islam in world history. It further explains how the growth rate of Islam has surpassed the growth rate of Christianity during the past few decades. Then it explores the meaning and the consequences of that growth. To a historian, the most enlightening chapter explained the enmity between Muslims and Jews. Both are followers of the God of Moses and Abraham. But the similarities end quickly and the violence erupts soon afterward. The existence of Israel--control of sacred land--is only partially the reason for the ongoing animosity. ~ Jamie Clary, Mayor, Hendersonville, TN

Dr. Brewton's book, Muslim Mechanics, is essential for anyone interested in knowing more about how Islam relates to today's society. It is an easy read that does not get bogged down with technical complexities. Whether you like history, theology, politics, or sociology, there is something here for everyone. Even finance and marketing! This book dives into the background of why Muslims are who they are and offers understanding why they do what they do. From the novice to the expert Muslim Mechanics will provide new insight to what you think you know about Islam. ~ Shane, NGO Field Worker in Western Europe

Whether you have a grasp on Islam or are a novice, Muslim Mechanics will improve your understanding. In a readable study, Charles gives insight on the beliefs and rules that Muslims follow, the actions they take, and where they are headed. If you are looking to get a handle on Islam, this is a read for you. ~ Reverend Don Hutchinson, Lead Pastor, Hendersonville First United Methodist Church

What part does religion play in the government of man? For Muslims quite a lot. As our United States enhances her diversity by welcoming those who follow the teachings of Allah we must try to understand the whys and wherefores of the interconnectivity of the Muslim faith and government. Dr. Brewton presents an in-depth analysis of historical research and current-day practices that reveal concepts of the Muslim faith that are at odds with the advancement of democratic and technological progress. It ignites an interest in learning more as we live and work together in a progressive society. ~ Betty Gallina, Retired Educator, Pinellas County Schools, Pinellas County Florida