'Porn' Comment Sparks Attack on Mohammed Novel Publisher

LONDON — The words of an academic critic have sparked outrage over a new novel about the Muslim prophet Mohammed and his wife.

American author Sherry Jones' new novel "The Jewel of the Medina" follows Mohammed's relationship with his wife, Aisha. Denise Spellberg, an associate professor of Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Texas, said that Jones' novel takes "sacred history" and turns it into "softcore pornography."

The comment got someone's attention. London residents spotted smoke and flames near the home of Martin Rynja, whose publishing house will release the novel in the United Kingdom next month. Police investigated and found explosives. Rynja escaped unhurt.

London police have arrested three men so far in connection with the attempted attack. Four other households are also under investigation.

Although publishers and representatives feared arousing anger in the hardline Muslim community with the publication of "The Jewel of Medina," officials have not said whether the men being detained in connection with the case were Muslim.

Jones' representatives have criticized Spellberg's comments. Natasha Kern, Jones' agent, called on the public to read her client's novel in order to counter the "distortions and outright lies that the book either insults Mohammed or contains salacious or suggestive material."

In related news, Danish publisher Bjarke Larsen is reconsidering his company's approach to "The Jewel of Medina" in the wake of the attempted attack in England.

“It makes me rethink the situation. I have a responsibility to my family, and that of course makes me think again,” he said. “On the one hand we have the consideration for the safety of my family and for the fact that things do not escalate out of control. On the other hand we cannot let the freedom of speech be suppressed.”

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

The Dungeon Store Debuts 'Thing Noir' Violet Wand Attachment

The Dungeon Store has released the Thing Noir violet wand conductive e-stim accessory.

Pjur, Magasin du Nord Partner for 'Flex Area' Campaign

Pjur and retail brand Magasin du Nord have partnered for the wellness brand’s Flex Area campaign.

Kheper Releases New 'Think Like a Slut' Party Game

Kheper Games has released the new "Think Like a Slut" party game.

Honey Play Box, Creative Conceptions Ink European Distro Deal

Honey Play Box has signed a deal with Creative Conceptions for distribution in the U.K. and Europe.

Motorbunny Debuts 'Fluffer Rock Hard Power' Cock Ring Vibe

Motorbunny has introduced its Fluffer Rock Hard Power vibrating cock ring.

EQOM Appoints Anneke Kamphuis Interim CEO

EQOM Group, the company behind ONE-DC and EasyToys, has appointed Anneke Kamphuis as its interim CEO.

Viben Debuts 'Dreamii' Collection

Viben has unveiled its new Dreamii line of pleasure products.

Onahole Debuts New 'Brain Hacker DX' Stroker

Pleasure brand Onahole has introduced its new Brain Hacker DX stroker.

Fanreal Debuts 'Real Skin Texture' Love Doll

Pleasure brand Fanreal has introduced its proprietary silicone Real Skin Texture love doll.

Full Circle Expands 'Savage Me Dream Girl Doll' Line

Full Circle has introduced Alyssa, Carla, and Nadia from its Savage Me Dream Girl Doll collection.

Show More