Pointing the Finger: Islam and Muslims in the British Media [Paperback]

'A timely and important book. With critical analysis of recent media coverage and suggestions for positive action, the authors advance the study of essential issues faced by multicultural societies today.' --Elizabeth Poole, Senior Lecturer in Media Studies, Staffordshire University and author of Reporting Islam: Media Representations of British Muslims

'Required reading for scholars, students, activists, and journalists. A forensic examination of how Muslims are misrepresented in Britain's media.' --Arun Kundnani, Author of The End of Tolerance: Racism in 21st Century Britain and Visiting Fellow, London Metropolitan University

'This excellent collection of timely essays should be read by all with a civic concern for the growing divisions in our society.' --Tariq Modood, University of Bristol

In this important book, several leading media commentators examine the phenomenon of Islamophobia and ask how to tackle it. Charting recent media controversies, from the Archbishop of Canterbury's comments on Sharia law to the veil debate, the book argues that media hostility to Islam alienates Muslims and undermines efforts to combat extremism. With examples of press-fuelled myths about Islam in Britain, this is a captivating insight into how Muslims are depicted in the UK.

Julian Petley is Professor of Film and Television at Brunel University. He is the author of several books on censorship, and has written for the Guardian and Independent. Robin Richardson is Co-director of the Insted consultancy, focusing on issues of equality and diversity. His previous roles include director of the Runnymede Trust and chief inspector of education in the London borough of Brent. He is the author of Islamophobia: a challenge for us all.