Professor Bob Shipman, a Britsih and retired lecturer from the University of Birmingham and Vanley Burke international social documentary photographer recently published a book on Mosques in The Gambia. The book was published through the assistance of Glynn Jones known by her Gambian name Mariama Manneh of SHINE Africa.

Speaking in an interview with the Daily Observer, Professor Bob Shipman revealed that when he was lecturing at the University of Birmingham, he felt that it is important to broaden the students and teachers knowledge on another culture rather their own.

He added that they visited various mosques and met imams and took photographs that resulted to an exhibition in Birmingham at a centre for black culture. "It is quite natural to have the images in a book to reflect more on the social side of the mosque," Professor Bob Shipman noted.

Professor Shipman noted that the book is essentially intended for the Western audience. "We feel that it is a story that has not been told, Islam has very calm effect on people and is a respectful religion and should be respected," he added.