Here is a very important book for any doctor or health professional who wants to share their faith with Muslim patients or neighbours. It's the fruit of a career-long commitment of a doctor who lived and worked in several Muslim countries, then practised in a mostly-Muslim English inner-city context.

The author's thesis is that faith sharing needs to start at gut and heart level - 'anthropology, not theological disputation'. Much of the book is an endeavour to find'a common language'. Even so he does not duck hard questions, such as questions over Islam's inherently violent nature.

It is full of treasure: insights about the cultural and linguistic gaps standing in the way; stories of real-life encounters; accounts of lively debates; heart-warming answers to prayer; advice on how to offer and accept hospitality and make friends.