What Is Veiling?

“[Amer] offers perhaps the definitive glossary on veiling. . . . Amer’s deliberate and caring scholarly treatment is pitch perfect. This book about 'hijabistas,' 'muhajababes,' and veiled Muslim hip-hop artists, among others, is not just about veiling; it is the story of Islam, especially modern Islam, told through the prism of the veil.” — Publishers Weekly, starred review

“In Amer’s able hands, the often feminist, anti-colonist nature of veiling is brought to light. . . . In prose that is approachable and sympathetic, and with research spanning nations and centuries, Amer’s project manages to be both comprehensive and illuminative. . . . An important work that stands to advance multicultural conversations and is a must-read for all those who wish to intelligently approach the subject of Muslim women and autonomy.” — Foreword

“Nuanced, thoughtful . . . Amer weaves a complex picture of the historical, religious, political, and sociological dimensions of Muslim women’s head coverings.” — CHOICE

“A sweeping historical and sociopolitical overview and perhaps the most comprehensive one on veiling.” — Sociology of Religion: A Quarterly Review

“Remarkably nuanced and thoughtful, this timely book takes readers on a riveting intellectual journey that brings into focus the complexities of the veil as a discursive, political, and material object. . . . Beautifully written and exhaustively researched, this book is a must read for novices and experts alike.” — New Books Network

“A remarkable primer that guides newcomers and scholars alike through the range of issues, contexts, debates, and ethics of what is sure to be a continued controversy for some time to come.” — SCTIW Review

“A strong introduction to the multiplicity and polysemy of veiling practices.” — Contemporary French Civilization

“Veiling is a difficult but timely and important topic. Sahar Amer explains that Muslims didn’t invent the veil, not all Muslims veil the same way, and ideas about Muslim veiling have served and continue to serve political and polemical purposes. A vivid resource for general readers as well as students in courses on Islam and women’s studies.” — Kecia Ali, author of Marriage and Slavery in Early Islam

“In this well written, succinct, and much needed overview of the role of veiling in the Muslim world, Sahar Amer interweaves the perspectives of Muslim women themselves, with emphasis on the many meanings attached to veiling. Given that veiling has been commonly practiced by many religions, why has the veil become so strongly associated with Islam? Why is it that Muslim women who veil are automatically assumed to be oppressed, ignorant, pious, or militant? How is it that a piece of clothing is so politically and emotionally charged? Amer answers these questions clearly over the course of this highly readable book.” — Lynne Huffer, author of Are the Lips a Grave?: A Queer Feminist on the Ethics of Sex