A couple of years ago I was reading up on "Judaism for Dummies" and I found it to be a nice way learn a bit more about the religion. Online reviews of the book ran from serious to quirky and every flavor in between - some liked it, while others could do without.
After 9-11 I felt that it might be helpful to employ the same series "Islam for Dummies" to prime myself on the religion of peace.
Surprisingly, it was a 5 star read for anyone and everyone that so much as touched the book. I figured I really didn't need to bother with the book.