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Books published by publisher Brainbow Press

  • Quran: A Reformist Translation

    Edip Yuksel, Layth Saleh al-Shaiban, Martha Schulte-Nafeh

    Paperback (Brainbow Press, Aug. 16, 2007)
    • The Reformist Translation of the Quran offers a non-sexist and non-sectarian understanding of the divine text; it is the result of collaboration between three translators, two men and a woman. • It explicitly rejects the authority of the clergy to determine the likely meaning of disputed passages. • It uses logic and the language of the Quran itself as the ultimate authority in determining likely meanings, rather than ancient scholarly interpretations rooted in patriarchal hierarchies. • It offers extensive cross-referencing to the Bible and provides arguments on numerous philosophical and scientific issues. • It is God's message for those who prefer reason over blind faith, for those who seek peace and ultimate freedom by submitting themselves to the Truth alone. "A bold and beautiful translation that serves as a timely reminder to all believers that the Qur'an is not a static scripture, but a living, breathing, ever-evolving text whose sacred words are as applicable today as when they were first uttered by the Prophet Muhammad fourteen centuries ago." - Reza Aslan, PhD., CBS News Consult-ant; Author, No god but God: The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam. "A testament to the fact that faith need not suffocate reason. This is bound to be among the smartest of 'smart bombs' in the battle of ideas within Islam." - Irshad Manji, Fellow, Yale University and author, The Trouble with Islam Today: A Muslim's Call for Reform in Her Faith. "I completely agree with you in your rejection of the right of any group to arrogate to themselves the sole interpretation of the Quran.... Your effort is praiseworthy. Well done. Keep it up." - Kassim Ahmad, former president of Malaysian Socialist Party and head of Malaysian Quranic Society who was declared "apostate" by religious authorities for his controversial work on the Prophetic Traditions. "This translation is the best tool for those who want to understand the uncorrupted Message of Islam - justice and peace. This translation shows that the Quran is but the confirmation and continuation of God's system memorialized through Abraham, demonstrated in Torah through numerous prophets, and in the Hebrew Gospel through Ye-shu'a/Jesus, the righteous of God. This translation is a message of peace, justice and judgment..." - Gershom Kibrisli, theologian and communal leader, The Karaim of the Early Hebrew Scriptures, Holy Land & Benelux. "This Reformist Translation of the Quran and its ancillary materials should begin many conversations, between and among Muslims and non-Muslims alike. In many parts of the Muslim world this is a dangerous discussion, and sometimes that danger can reach well into the West, as evidenced by the 1990 fatwa-inspired murder of Rashad Khalifa in Tucson, Arizona. It is an important discussion, however, and the editors of this book have assumed this risk to argue for a perspective that sets violence aside both in discourse and living. One can imagine that a broader adoption of their perspective across the Muslim world would reduce strife and invite greater examination of Islam by non-Muslims as something other than a threat. It would expand the conversation." - Mark V Sykes Ph.D. J.D. Director, Planetary Science Institute. "Very Interesting and Timely" - Riffat Hassan, Ph.D. Professor of Religious Studies and Humanities at the University of Louisville, Kentucky. A pioneer of feminist theology in the context of the Islamic tradition. "Quran: A Reformist Translation is also unique because it is the product of collaboration between two key figures in the pre-sent-day Qur'anist movement: Edip Yuksel and Layth Saleh al-Shaiban." - Aisha Y. Musa, PhD, Professor of Islamic Studies, Florida International University; author of An Examination of Early and Contemporary Muslim Attitudes toward Hadith as Scripture (Doctoral Dissertation, Harvard University, 2004).
  • Quran: a Reformist Translation

    Edip Yuksel, Martha Schulte-Nafeh, Layth Saleh al-Shaiban

    eBook (Brainbow Press, May 19, 2010)
    The Reformist Translation of the Quran offers a non-sexist understanding of the divine text; it is the result of collaboration between three translators, two men and a woman. It explicitly rejects the right of the clergy to determine the likely meaning of disputed passages It uses logic and the language of the Quran itself as the ultimate authority in determining likely meanings, rather than ancient scholarly interpretations rooted in patriarchal hierarchies. It offers extensive cross-referencing to the Bible and provides arguments on numerous philosophical and scientific issues. It is God's message for those who prefer reason over blind faith, for those who seek peace and ultimate freedom by submitting themselves to the Truth alone.A bold and beautiful translation that serves as a timely reminder to all believers that the Qur'an is not a static scripture, but a living, breathing, ever-evolving text whose sacred words are as applicable today as when they were first uttered by the Prophet Muhammad fourteen centuries ago. REZA ASLAN, CBS News Consultant; Author, No god but God: The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam.A testament to the fact that faith need not suffocate reason. This is bound to be among the smartest of 'smart bombs' in the battle of ideas within Islam. IRSHAD MANJI, Fellow, Yale University and author, The Trouble with Islam Today: A Muslim's Call for Reform in Her Faith. Every conversation begins with a single voice. This Reformist Translation of the Quran and its ancillary materials should begin many conversations, between and among Muslims and non-Muslims alike. In many parts of the Muslim world this is a dangerous discussion, and sometimes that danger can reach well into the West, as evidenced by the 1990 fatwa-inspired murder of Rashad Khalifa in Tucson, Arizona . It is an important discussion, however, and the editors of this book have assumed this risk to argue for a perspective that sets violence aside both in discourse and living. One can imagine that a broader adoption of their perspective across the Muslim world would reduce strife and invite greater examination of Islam by non-Muslims as something other than a threat. It would expand the conversation. - MARK V SYKES Ph.D. J.D. Director, Planetary Science Institute.Very Interesting and Timely - RIFFAT HASSAN, Ph.D. Professor of Religious Studies and Humanities at the University of Louisville, Kentucky. A pioneer of feminist theology in the context of the Islamic tradition. I completely agree with you in your rejection of the right of any group to arrogate to themselves the sole interpretation of the Quran. The Quran, being a book containing divine knowledge and wisdom, can only be understood progressively. It has to be interpreted anew by every generation and through a scientific methodology. Your effort is praiseworthy. Well done. Keep it up. - KASSIM AHMAD, former president of Malaysian Socialist Party and head of Malaysian Quranic Society who was declared apostate by religious authorities for his controversial work on the Prophetic Traditions. This translation is the best tool for those who want to understand the uncorrupted Message of Islam - justice and peace. This translation shows that the Quran is but the confirmation and continuation of God's system memorialized through Abraham, demonstrated in Torah through numerous prophets, and in the Hebrew Gospel through Yeshu'a/Jesus, the righteous of God. This translation is a message of peace, justice and judgment. I pray that the Reformist translation of the Quran will replace all others not only because it is the best but also because it is the closest to the original Arabic text. - GERSHOM KIBRISLI, theologian and communal leader, The Karaim of the Early Hebrew Scriptures, Holy Land & Benelux. --BrainBowPress
  • The Magic Mirror and Other Stories: 5 tales of magic and fun for older children

    Frances Cashman

    eBook (Rainbow Press, Feb. 12, 2015)
    The Magic Mirror tells of Katelyn's thrilling journey to the strange and rather scary land of Saragocia to release the magic mirror found in her new home from the wicked spell put on it many years ago by an evil magician called Dorominex. She is guided in her daring exploits by Antonio, the Spirit of the Mirror. However, she must come face to face with both wicked witch, Golwessy Evandora and Dorominex before finally achieving her noble goal.In Esmerelda's Magic Flute, Esmerelda is a pixie with great musical talent. She is delighted when rewarded with a flute with magical powers by Planderbil, the Chief Pixie She can make people feel happy or sad, sick or well, anything she wants them to feel actually - simply by playing it. However, using this special gift wisely proves more difficult than she imagines. She has valuable lessons to learn before she can prove herself worthy of such a unique reward.The story of how Billy-Bob Mc-Alistair joins the circus as a clown is an interesting one. He soon becomes known as the funniest clown in the world. However, after many years, something sad happens and poor Billy-Bob fears he may never again smile let alone make anyone. Young Mr McFee, the circus owner as well as the ring-master, comes up with a plan. Will it succeed though?Int The Violet and the Rose, a kind old lady named Beth loves flowers and even talks to them. More surprisingly, flowers have a language of their own which we humans can neither hear nor understand. One day, Beth has an especially beautiful bunch of flowers, each of a different variety. She loves the rose most of all even though she loves all her flowers dearly. However, the violet is inclined to be jealous of the rose and can even be rather nasty to her. Beth's little granddaughter, Rachel comes to visit. Life changes for the flowers, particularly the violet.In Grandma's Star, when Tom's grandma dies, he runs away, afraid of being sent to an orphanage. That night, all alone in the dark, to his great surprise, a star speaks to him, introducing himself as Florence, his grandma's star and saying that he will always be there to take care of him. Tom''s greatest wish is to join Florence in the sky. During his exciting adventure, he meets the Great Fish of Knowledge, the good Witch of Wilderington Forrest, Whiitey, the snowman and his wife, Snowball and Wonderbolt the Flying Horse.
  • The Mystery of Esteron: Roxiltons, Warnicks, and Transcritters

    Barbara Gorski, Eva Gorski

    Paperback (Rainbow Fan Press, June 2, 2019)
    Eight-year-old Freddie’s uncle and cousin have disappeared in an exotic country during a business trip. To save them, he and his family must travel to this magical world populated by legendary Leshies and robotic knights who turn into monstrous animals. Freddie feels like his wildest dreams are materializing, but is unaware of the harsh reality he must face, especially when civil war erupts between two armies: the heroic Roxiltons and the evil Warnicks!
  • The Giving Me

    Lydia Criss Mays, Fran Battendieri

    Paperback (Our Rainbow Press, )
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  • We Eat Food That's Fresh

    Angela Russ-Ayon, Cathy June

    Hardcover (OurRainbow Press, June 19, 2009)
    A whimsical chef introduces young children to fun food experiences that stir up their interest in fruits and vegetables. Join them as they pick from the garden, prepare in the kitchen, and relax by the shore. The chef wants the children to try something new, and they just might, before he s through. Easy rhymes and repetitive verses are combined with deliciously colorful pastel illustrations. This picture book comes with a companion song, audio book, and instrumental on CD
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  • The Listening Me

    Lydia Criss Mays, Fran Battendieri

    Paperback (Our Rainbow Press, July 31, 2014)
    The Listening Me helps children develop the lifeskill of listening. Strategically crafted, this book provides children with listening invitations to practice and understand the importance of listening. From rising in the morning, to resting their head on the pillow at night, children are invited to interact with the world as a listener and critical thinker. The Listening Me includes two unique additions that were crafted by brilliant contributors who work steadfastly to make the world a more kind place for all. A PARENT DISCUSSION GUIDE, written by Stephen de Groot from Getting to Better is included to help adult readers deeply connect with their children while reading. A CHILDREN'S ACTIVITY GUIDE, written by Orly Wahba, of Life Vest Inside, is included that extends invitations in the book to real world experiences.
  • Let's Potty!

    Bisa, John Floyd Jr.

    Board book (OurRainbow Press, Nov. 7, 2006)
    Teaching potty training can be a very trying time. This book helps children understand the routine of going to the potty from undressing, using the toilet to washing their hands. Every parent and educator can use this book to teach appropriate bathroom routines.
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  • Play With HEART

    Debbie Miller-Palmore, John Floyd Jr.

    Paperback (OurRainbow Press, )
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  • The Enchanted Life of Desmond

    Barbara Gorski, Judy Grupp

    Paperback (Rainbow Fan Press, Sept. 29, 2017)
    The happy life of Desmond, a young Australian lizard, is shattered by an earthquake, which leaves him and his friends orphaned. In the course of the rescue, they are directed through an organization to charitable families abroad. At night on the plane, an overheard conversation makes Desmond wonder about their destination. Are they actually being taken to a zoo? Coincidentally, a crash-landing in a swamp allows the children to escape. Soon they are found by Arlene, a kindhearted golden eagle, who guides them to Greenhill Forest. Amid their new life of fun school activities, the children learn important lessons on friendship, but can they also avoid capture by the zookeepers?
  • Bedtime Magic

    Mary Frances Cashman, Marie Hendrick

    Paperback (Rainbow Press, )
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  • Neeko's Angel: A Story About Kindness

    Melanie Mims

    Paperback (OurRainbow Press, July 1, 2005)
    Neeko gets the chance to get even with his bully but learns the true meaning of kindness instead.
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