My Friend the Fanatic: Travels With an Indonesian Islamist

Discover the complexities of Indonesia and its intricate relationship with Islamic identity in 'My Friend the Fanatic: Travels With an Indonesian Islamist.' This compelling work by Sadanand Dhume takes readers on a poignant journey through Indonesia during a transformative period, following the devastating Bali bombings in October 2002. As a Princeton-educated journalist, Dhume dives deep into the cultural shifts in the world's most populous Islamic nation, alongside Herry Nurdi, a fervent Islamist. This unique perspective sheds light on the juxtaposition of economic development and rising Islamist politics, making it a must-read for those seeking to understand the nuances of Muslim cultures. The book skillfully addresses pressing questions about radicalization and societal tolerance, contributing to a broader dialogue on Islam in contemporary society. 'My Friend the Fanatic' is not just a travel account; it's an essential narrative that fills the gap in literature about Indonesia, urging readers to reflect on the forces shaping the future of this diverse nation. Don’t miss your chance to explore this important work, which has been well-received for its insightful commentary and engaging storytelling. Ideal for students, scholars, and anyone interested in Indonesian history and Islamic studies, this trade paperback is a valuable addition to any bookshelf, and it’s available now at Smartfox NZ with free shipping on your order. Immerse yourself in the pages of this enlightening book and gain a deeper understanding of a country at a crossroads.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781921351402
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 2008
Publisher: The Text Publishing Company
Pages: 320


Description:
In October 2002, Sadanand Dhume found himself in a place most foreigners were trying to flee -Bali. Powerful explosions the previous night had ripped through two tourist nightclubs, killing more than 200 people. That evening he visited all that remained of the Sari Club- piles of ash, twisted girders, blackened beer bottles and the stench of charred wood and petrol. Amidst the desultory crackle of police walkie-talkies, he wondered about the future of a country long regarded as immune to such carnage. My Friend the Fanatic is a portrait of Indonesia, a nation in the midst of a profound shift towards both Islamic orthodoxy and Islamist politics. This portrait is painted through the travels of a pair of unlikely protagonists. Dhume is a foreign correspondent, a Princeton-educated Indian atheist with a fondness for John Updike and an interest in economic development. His companion, Herry Nurdi, is a young Islamist who hero-worships Osama bin Laden. As the most populous Islamic nation on the planet, Indonesia occupies remarkably little space on our bookshelves. My Friend the Fanatic fills this void. It is a work made timely by a deep hunger for knowledge about Muslim cultures. But it is equally the story of a sprawling land at the edge of the world captured at a defining moment. How does a society go from broad inclusiveness to shrill intolerance in the space of a generation? Will Indonesia be radicalised alongside other parts of the Islamic world? Does Herry represent the future?

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