Do you think the book is more suitable to Christians only or to all religious backgrounds?

Use this forum to discuss the February 2024 Book of the Month, "Beyond the Golden Door: Seeing the American Dream Through an Immigrant's Eyes" by Ali Master
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Diala Macak
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Re: Do you think the book is more suitable to Christians only or to all religious backgrounds?

Post by Diala Macak »

I think that religion is a very sensitive topic. Our man was brave to write about it to inspire and give perspective to people who are a little confused or lost at the moment. However, we need to remember that other religions, mainly Islam, wouldn't be happy about it. Open-minded people usually mind their own business in these cases, but extremists can be loud and dangerous.
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Post by Malleswararao Dasari »

This book appeals not only to Christians but every one who are open minded and who are interested in exploring vast topics like cultural differences, how people from different countries perceive things differently.
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Post by Chikamnele Favour »

This book is not limited to any religion. Anyone in any religion can read this book.
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Post by Ije Bons »

I think that this book transcends religion and focuses on humanity instead. I enjoyed reading it.
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Post by Princewill Uchenna »

While the book might hold specific interest for Christian readers due to the author's religious background and experiences, its themes and narrative should not limit its audience
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Post by shvarya malai »

The book is mostly about Christianity, and while no other religion is specifically mentioned or damaged, it should be noted that some readers may become narrow-minded about other religions as a result of reading it. For this reason, I would suggest this book to everyone, but only if they approach it with an open mind and a universal perspective. And I think liberal people can and should read any book if they choose to learn about experiences and cultures outside of their religion, even though it is the author's responsibility to appropriately warn readers of all religions about the subject matter of their work.
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Post by Sarah Zain »

Yes, there are parts related to Christianity, but the other aspects that the book deals with, such as immigration and the differences in cultures, make the book worth the opportunity to read.
Life is hard on its own so let's make it easier for each other if we could.
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Post by Risper Ouma Anyango »

All regions will enjoy this book because religion isn't the major theme, its one if the themes in the book. Making it for a specific religion would undermine the whole purpose which is achieving the American dream after years of hardwork by Ali Master.
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Post by Lisa P Cowling »

I think there's a lot more to the book than the author's religion. Therefore, the book is suited for anyone. Many readers will learn or relate to the author's experiences.
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Post by Chidera Ezeakolam »

"Beyond the Golden Door: Seeing the American Dream Through an Immigrant's Eyes" by Ali Master is a book that resonates with a wide audience, regardless of religious background. While the book may touch on themes like liberty, determination, and personal success, it offers a universal message that can be appreciated by readers from various religious beliefs or cultural backgrounds.
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Jenna Padayachee
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Post by Jenna Padayachee »

I feel that this book strongly depicts Master's transition from being in an environment and religion where he experienced a strong sense of enslavement, to an experience of ultimate liberation, purpose, and gratitude.

The agreement of Abboo with the support of the initial finances to send Master to America was a powerful pivotal point ( the beginning of many), this and a few other moments in the book depict a universal truth in that we are all in the position to change our lives, despite circumstances at any given moment in time.

Master's love for America and his views on Pakistani politics and the Muslim religion may rub certain people practicing Islam/ similar structured religions and politics the wrong way, extremely. This is evident in his own story when he goes to Pakistan after accepting Christianity, the reaction of his family, friends, and society depicts this reality.

He also points out in the book the volume of attention he received from those in the Christian faith, as they were very fascinated by his transition from Islam to Christianity.
The most significant difference in both these religious books is the role of Jesus ( the common narrative being the basis arising from Old Testament scriptures).

Ali greatly celebrates ( towards the latter pages of the book), his life achievements, relationships, and purpose in his newfound Christian faith which he also views as being interwoven into the American Dream / American Constitution.

I do believe there will be those who will avoid this subject and therefore not access this book
, as there will be those,
who are curious to genuinely find an understanding of Master's experience ( despite different religious and political backgrounds).

Considering the above, I conclude that this book will be well received by those who are open enough to explore it to understand Master's interesting life account and when they do, they will no doubt find a wealth of inspiration from his ability to follow his heart and purpose in life, despite all challenges presented to him ( I found a lot of nuggets of wisdom and inspiration from it).
"Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power." Lao Tzu
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Post by Marina Flisvou »

Ali Master's book tells his story of changing from following Islam to Christianity. This big change is an important part of the book. Some people might like reading about someone changing their religion and what that means for them. Others who don't want to read about religion might not enjoy these parts as much. But, the book also talks a lot about overcoming challenges, getting used to a new culture, and chasing the American Dream, which many readers can appreciate, no matter what they believe about religion.
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Post by Sunday N Florence »

I agree that while this book may have particular appeal to Christians, its message transcends religious boundaries, offering valuable insights that are relevant to people of all faiths or beliefs. Despite our religious differences, there are universal truths and lessons that we can all learn and appreciate together as a unified community.
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Post by Zainab Wasif »

The themes and story are not exclusive to Christian readers. Readers of different faiths, as well as those intrigued by immigration and self-development will benefit from this book.
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Post by Mark Maxwell 2 »

Absolutely, while the author's Christian background and experiences may resonate strongly with Christian readers, the overarching themes and narrative of the book have a universal appeal that extends beyond religious boundaries. Readers from diverse backgrounds, regardless of their faith, can find relevance and significance in the book's exploration of immigration, self-discovery, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Its themes of resilience, personal growth, and overcoming obstacles speak to the human experience on a broader level, making it accessible and meaningful to a wide range of audiences.
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