Recommended Books

John Gottman has revolutionized the study of marriage by using rigorous scientific procedures to observe the habits of married couples in unprecedented detail over many years. Here is the culmination of his life's work: the seven principles that guide couples on the path toward a harmonious and long-lasting relationship. Packed with practical questionnaires and exercises, The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work is the definitive guide for anyone who wants their relationship to attain its highest potential

Note: One of the most comprehensive and easy to understand books on the market. The author is a leader in his field and most if not all of his recommendations are consistent with Islamic values. His position on in-laws may be too harsh but even here the advice in general is sound. 

 

 


The New York Times and Washington Post bestseller that changed the way millions communicate.

“[Crucial Conversations] draws our attention to those defining moments that literally shape our lives, our relationships, and our world. . . . This book deserves to take its place as one of the key thought leadership contributions of our time.”
—from the Foreword by Stephen R. Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

“The quality of your life comes out of the quality of your dialogues and conversations. Here’s how to instantly uplift your crucial conversations.”

—Mark Victor Hansen, cocreator of the #1 New York Times bestselling series Chicken Soup for the Soul® 

Note: This book has been recommended by one of our on camera experts, Rashaad Vahed. 

 

 


Islam teaches that marriage is 'half of religion'. Because it fulfils so many basic needs of individuals and of society, it is the cornerstone upon which the whole Muslim life is built. Modern life brings strains and pressures which can upset even the most compatible relationship. This means that nowadays, to protect the spirit of cooperation and happiness which is the sign of the true Islamic marriage, careful thought needs to be given to the mechanisms which help husband and wife to live together and respect each other's rights. This highly-readable book takes the reader through the relevant passages in the Quran and Hadith, and goes on to discuss the main social, emotional and sexual problems that can afflict relationships, suggesting many practical ways in which these can be resolved.

Note: One of the strengths of this book is that it highlights the importance Islam gives to a loving physical union between husband and wife.  


In this highly acclaimed recovery guide, renowned sex and relationship therapists Wendy and Larry Maltz shed new light on the compelling nature and destructive power of today’s instantly available pornography. Weaving together poignant real-life stories with innovative exercises, checklists, and expert advice, this groundbreaking resource provides a comprehensive program for understanding and healing porn addiction and other serious consequences of porn use.

The Porn Trap will help you to:

  • Decide whether it’s time to quit using porn
  • Learn how to stop using porn and deal with cravings
  • Improve self-esteem and personal integrity
  • Heal an intimate relationship harmed by porn use
  • Develop a healthy sex life

 


Note: Recommended by Muslim social worker Amal Killawi (MSW) to who uses this book to help Muslim couples. Although the book is written from a Christian perspective, there are many moral teachings shared by Muslims. Moreover, it addresses an important topic without the use of explicit images.

Answers to real-life, nitty-gritty private questions Christians are asking about sex Louis and Melissa McBurney offer frank, humorous, sensitive, and biblically grounded answers to the thousands of sex questions readers have sent to the editors of Marriage Partnership, a publication of Christianity Today International. The authors deal with sensitive issues that need to be talked about, but within a solid spiritual, psychological, and therapeutic context. This book is perfect for newlyweds, newlyweds of 25 years, or for parents to give their engaged son or daughter who is soon to be married. The McBurney's give frank, honest answers to real, honest questions that many Christians have always wanted to ask, but were too embarrassed or afraid. The author's authentic, unblushing, yet thoroughly Christian perspective is presented in a two-column format. Their humor, husband-wife dialogue, and to-the-point answers provide an ideal reference for all the stages of married sex.


Understand the process of preparing for marriage by exploring your personal beliefs and values as well as the qualities you seek in a spouse.  Gain a deeper understanding of your potential spouse in order to gauge your compatibility.  Consider the impact of your respective views on profession, education, personality, Islam, culture, finances, home life, family, friends and children.  In this second edition of Before the Wedding, newly revised questions are geared toward fostering thought provoking and challenging conversations between you and your potential spouse.

Through a series of structured conversations, you and your potential spouse can sharpen your communication skills and gain valuable insights that will boost your confidence in making the best decision when marrying.  A newly added chapter on the "marriage cycle" further reflects on the challenges and stressors all couples can expect to encounter in the course of their marriage.

Note: This short, easy to read book lists many questions that prospective spouses can and should ask one another about finances, personal history, faith and family. You may not ask every question but it is crucial for you to know which questions are important to ask your potential life partner.  


IN SPOUSE-TRAP YOU WILL LEARN:

- What marriage should do for you 

- Four things to look for in a spouse

- How to make marriage last

- How to clarify what you want

- Questions to ask on day to day living

- Questions to ask on hygiene and health

- Questions to ask on attitude and character 

- What you need to find out about your in-laws

- Questions to ask on beliefs and religion

- What you need to find out about your fiance's friends

- About discussions you need to have on money

- About discussions you need to have on children

- About discussions you need to have on living arrangements

- What an ideal spouse should be like

Available in the Kindle Edition.


Islamic Marriage draws from the works of several highly respected Muslim scholars. The book clarifies the Sacred Law on marriage, presents Prophetic teachings on the subject, and gives plain guidance for entering into a marriage, and sustaining it with happiness once inside it. At a time when successful marriages are definitely on the decline, this book offers healing and encouragement, and hope for the attainment of felicity and success in this life and the next.