Muhammad novel pulled

National Catholic Reporter, Sept 5, 2008

NEW YORK -- Random House is defending its decision to pull a new novel that explores the personal life of the prophet Muhammad, citing concerns about offending Muslims and inciting violence.

The New York-based publishing giant consulted with security experts and Islamic scholars before halting publication of The Jewel of Medina, which was scheduled to hit stores Aug. 12.

Sherry Jones, the book's author, has said her goal was to expose the feminist underpinnings of Islam's founder by offering details of his relationships with women. The novel traces the life of A'isha, one of Muhammad's wives.

Jones and Random House agreed to the termination in May. Under the agreement, Jones will be allowed to shop her book to other publishers.

A Serbian publisher pulled 1200 copies of the book from shelves last week after an Islamic Organization denounced it.