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THE BOOKSELLER

03.10.08 Philip Jones

US publisher Beaufort Books has brought forward the US publication date of the controversial Islamic book The Jewel of Medina so readers can decide for themselves about the book. The edition will now be published on 6th October, nine days before its original publication date of 15th October.

The move came after the offices of UK publisher Gibson Square were fire-bombed putting UK publication in doubt.

Eric Kampmann, president of Beaufort Books, said: "After the incident in the UK Saturday, we feel it is important to put to rest accusations about the book's content, and make it available for readers to decide for themselves."

The statement added, cancelled publications, threats and acts of violence had not swayed the author Sherry Jones, "whose goal was never to insult or raise controversy but rather to raise awareness and begin a dialogue".

"The misguided acts of few will not stop the publication of a tale which at its root is about freedom, equality and the right of individuals to make decisions for themselves."