The Evolution of a Muslim Democrat

Charles Allers earned his PhD in Islamic studies from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and his D.Min. from Azusa Pacific University. Dr. Allers has been active in serving people in the capacity of church pastor and civic chaplain for over twenty years. He and his wife, Greta, reside in San Diego, California.

«Few public figures have transcended their milieu more decisively than Anwar Ibrahim. Moving well beyond the turbulent politics of Malaysia, he has become a major force in modern Islam. Charles Allers meticulously and insightfully documents Anwar's unparalleled trajectory from intellectual and activist to political outsider and prime minister-in-waiting. This is an assured and sensitive biography that finds, in an exceptional life, the evolution of a liberal Islam in which inter-civilizational dialogue and cosmopolitan values are unexceptional.» (James Piscatori, Durham University)
«Anwar Ibrahim has been a pivotal figure in the intersection between Islam and politics in Malaysia, with an impact that has gone beyond the country's boundaries. Through this thoroughly researched book, Charles Allers provides insight into the dynamics of change and approaches to 'reform', using Anwar as a lens through which decades of discourse and activity can be reflected upon and interpreted. Allers makes an important contribution to research on Islam and Muslims in the contemporary world, not just in relation to Malaysia. The book will be of relevance to students and specialists seeking to develop their understanding of the complexities and controversies surrounding Anwar Ibrahim and his place in Malaysian society, as well as those interested in attitudes toward politics and religion in modern Islamic contexts.» (Gary R. Bunt, Reader in Islamic Studies, University of Wales, Trinity Saint David)