Headscarves and Hymens: Why the Middle East Needs a Sexual Revolution

The journalist Mona Eltahawy is no stranger to controversy. Through her articles and actions she has fought for the autonomy, security, and dignity of Muslim women, drawing vocal supporters and detractors. Now, in her first book, Headscarves and Hymens, Eltahawy has prepared a definitive condemnation of the repressive forces--political, cultural, and religious--that reduce millions of women to second-class citizens.

Drawing on her years as a campaigner for and commentator on women's issues...