Muslim Identities: An Introduction to Islam (Second Edition) presents a fully updated introduction to the religion of Islam and the various social groups who define themselves as Muslim. Unlike other such works, it presents both insider and outsider accounts with the aim of striking a unique balance between overly apologetical and overly Orientalist perspectives. With the first edition described as a "truly outstanding book", and "the very best introduction currently available in English for non-Muslims seeking a sound approach to Islam" (Journal of Islamic Studies), this new edition offers both students and general readers a comprehensive and balanced introduction to the world's second-largest religion. Muslim Identities by Aaron Hughes is one of the most balanced introductory textbooks for the academic study of Islam that I have read and taught. It is both thorough and scholarly, yet also easily legible. It addresses insider/outsider debates and examines controversial issues, such as "Islam and 9/11," with both boldness and sensitivity. Edith Szanto, Assistant Professor, Religious Studies, University of Alabama This book is more than just an introduction to Islam. Aaron Hughes provides analytical tools for the reader to understand Islam as a historical and social phenomenon, and not as a static and homogeneous entity. Despite its admirably clear language, accessible to the non-specialist, Muslim Identities is written with utmost scholarly rigor. It keeps complexity and historical change at the forefront of its exposition and steers away from simplistic clichés. Mushegh Asatryan, Associate Professor of Arabic and Muslim Cultures, University of Calgary Aaron W. Hughes is the Dean's Professor of the Humanities and the Philip S. Bernstein Professor in the Department of Religion and Classics at the University of Rochester.