Book on Bridging the Muslim-Christian Divide Embraced by Viewers of both Al Jazeera and Trinity Broadcasting Network

Airing interviews with former Congressman Mark Siljander within the same week, the the world’s largest Christian and Muslim television broadcast networks reflect broad, national appeal of his message of understanding and acceptance.

Great Falls, VA September 21, 2009 – Mark Siljander has the unusual experience of appearing on both Al Jazeera’s current events show Min Washington (today, 3pm ET) and Christian Trinity Broadcasting Network’s Behind the Scenes (Thursday, 5pm PT) within the same week.

"We didn’t plan it this way," says Siljander, "but the fact that both shows are airing the same week demonstrates the diversity of people interested in and affected by the book. It’s ironic but appropriate that the shows are airing so closely together." In the award winning A Deadly Misunderstanding Siljander highlights his journey of spiritual discovery regarding Islam and Christianity and the possibility of greater reconciliation. Since the Washington Times reviewed A Deadly Misunderstanding on Aug 7th, Siljander has seen an uptick in interest.

Publisher HarperOne recently sold out the first printing and new books hit the shelves soon. His dual appearances this week are representative of the openness with which he speaks to every audience about his area of interest: the common ground traditionally missed between Islam and Christianity. "My job is to say-to both sides-we’re both consumed with our own cultural traditions and need to venture out of our comfort zones."

Siljander applies a unique approach to peacemaking, with what he calls the "Fifth Track" of spiritual diplomacy, running alongside more traditional paths to rapprochement. His efforts recently resulted in an invitation to the Sept 30-Oct 1 Geneva World Dialogue conference initiated by Saudi King Abdullah and focused on "Inter Religious Dialogue And Its Impact On Disseminating Human Values." Siljander will join world leaders in discussing complex problems faced in the world and the role that faith can play in the possibility for reconciliation.

Reflecting the interest generated in many quarters, the impressive diversity of endorsers of A Deadly Misunderstanding include both Christian and Muslim leaders as well as prominent Republicans, Democrats and political notables-testifying to the influence of the insightful and effective peacemaking that characterizes Siljander’s work.

Mark Siljander is a former U.S. congressman & deputy U.S./U.N. ambassador. After traveling to nearly 130 countries and studying the languages and holy books of Islam, Judaism and Christianity, he has authored the book, A Deadly Misunderstanding; A Congressman’s Quest to Bridge the Muslim-Christian Divide (HarperOne, Oct. 2008). www.adeadlymisunderstanding.com