The Lucifer Principle, Howard Bloom's latest book, published by the Atlantic Monthly Press, describes Muslims as "barbarians." On pp. 223-4 of the book, the author says:

"[T]here are barbarian people whose cultures glorify the act of murder and elevate violence to a holy deed...Islamic societies tend to be high on this list... Though Islamic literature praises Mohammed as a man of peace, he was anything but... He said in the blessed book the Koran,

`Kill those who join other gods with God [e.g., Christians] wherever you shall find them, and seize them and slay them, and lay in wait for them with every kind of ambush.'"

Mr. Bloom fails to reference the quote from the Holy Quran for a simple reason: the quote does not exist. Sura 39: 65 says the following of those who join gods with God, i.e., pagans:

"If thou wert to join gods with Allah, truly fruitless will be thy work in life, and thou wilt surely be in the ranks of those who lose all spiritual good." .

Mr. Bloom's preposterous statement serves to fuel the flames of anti-Arab and anti-Muslim hatred.

Write and call the publisher and author, demand an apology, ask that they discontinue any future editions of The Lucifer Principle, as well as any sequels of the book. Also suggest that the Atlantic Monthly Press consult with Arab Americans prior to the publication of materials that deal with Arab or Muslim issues.

Call and write to: Mr. Morgan Entrekin, President, Atlantic Monthly Press, 841 Broadway, NY, NY 10003, Tel: (212) 614-7850, Fax: (212) 614-7886.

Cc (at the same address): Mr. Anton Mueller, Senior Editor & Mr. Howard Bloom, Author.

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