Description
Beyond the Golden Door is the compelling, sometimes tense, and often humorous story of how a Pakistani Muslim finds freedom, love, and a new faith and challenges readers to appreciate the liberties found in America and to consider their own spiritual journey.
It’s easy to talk about freedom. But unless someone has lived in a world that suffocates freedom, it’s difficult to appreciate the liberty found in America. Beyond the Golden Door is the engaging true story of Ali Master, a Pakistani Muslim who immigrates to the United States to attend college and discovers five transformational freedoms along the way: the freedom to fail and start over, to love, to choose one’s faith, to be an entrepreneur, and to self-govern.
These American freedoms are shown in stark contrast to the life Ali lived in a third-world Muslim country and he asks the question: what are the roots of these precious American freedoms? Ultimately, readers discover that this tale is about God, the true source of liberty, and how He works in people’s lives to bring about unexpected and undeserved redemption.
Beyond the Golden Door encourages Americans to consider how they can preserve their precious freedoms and contribute to their country’s legacy, as well as the deeper challenge of considering their own life journey. A call to value and preserve American freedoms, Beyond the Golden Door extends an invitation for readers to consider ultimate freedom in Jesus Christ.
For bulk order pricing, please email books@alimaster.com
Nicole –
“The Beauty of Starting Over and Building Anew — a story anyone can relate to!”
Ali’s Through the Golden Door is a tale about moving away from a place of comfort, familiarity, and privilege to a place where you must start over, create your own identity fresh, and face the world anew. It is a story that any immigrant can relate to or any person who has ever left behind a home in order to create a new one.
I am 25 and I have lived in the US my entire life. I was born and raised here, and I still identify with many of the topics that Ali talks about. The US is a place of opportunity, but also hardship and challenges. What creates meaning in life aren’t the accolades of achievement, but the lessons learned, and friends made along the way. Throughout the book, Ali describes in perfect clarity about how his life is impacted by the people in his life—sometimes for the better (aka his wife), sometimes for a learning opportunity (aka his previous relationships).
I think one central theme of the book that especially resonates with me is the theme of creating your own identity. You see Ali face the issue of conformity or popularity in which he tries to be cool or fit in with a certain crowd, but it never feels like “him” until he meets his wife Judy. Once he meets Judy, everything feels right and his identity starts to solidify in ways that eventually lead him to his final form: ambitious, caring, hardworking, and innovative. This is the Ali you see later in the book and the transformation is inspirational to anyone young or old who feels lost or wants to push themselves to be better.
Another captivating trait about this book is that you are rooting for Ali every step of the way and you see him grow his confidence in himself which leads to better decision making. From trying to fit in to embracing his uniqueness, he blossoms into the person that you see today writing this book.
His final lesson is that becoming a successful person (no matter what your definition of success is) doesn’t happen overnight. It is the culmination of many hardships, lessons, acts of faith, and truly believing in yourself and listening to the world around you. It takes years, but that is the beauty of life and Ali reminds you that in America, success isn’t handed to you, but it is an option should you take the challenge. And that is what lies for you beyond the golden door.
Working Mom –
“Fascinating, funny and personal”
So many fascinating and humorous personal stories combined with genuine hardship, all linked by a clear Providential purpose. Uplifting and inspiring as a fresh reminder of the gift of being an American.
Amazon Customer –
“Couldn’t put the book down!”
Ali’s story is a masterpiece in narrating his truly unique journey. I literally read it cover to cover in a day, couldn’t stop reading it as I was continually drawn into the next chapter, then the next, and so on.
What insight he provides about life in a secular Muslim country compared to the freedoms that we all enjoy here as Americans. Makes me want to have Ali stand up and speak to those who denigrate our freedoms and attack our way of life, privileges that have cost many lives and spanned hundreds of years for us to enjoy today.
Most important to me was Ali’s perspective on his faith journey with the Lord. God’s providence certainly prevailed in his life and will continue to in the years to come. I am blessed to call him my brother in Christ and as a long time friend, I have gained even greater insight and perspective into not only Ali’s trials, but it has widened my view of others who do not share the freedoms that we too often take for granted here in America.
Christa –
“Read this book!”
This was a great read and a really interesting perspective from a Pakistani immigrant to the U.S. who stayed, assimilated, and converted to Christianity. This true story lets you walk in his shoes, going through a complete cultural shift from a life back in Pakistan (that has a shocking twist), struggling to make it without a safety net in the U.S., making unique choices that are strongly challenged by his family, and finding a strong sense of identity in the U.S. Hearing this voice of patriotism from an unlikely source was a reminder that, at its heart, this country does open its doors to immigrants. Ali’s pride in his adopted land is contagious.
Brooks McElyea –
“Best read you will have all summer.”
This book is an amazing read. In a time where we have forgotten what makes this country amazing, it is refreshing to hear the story of a man who risked it all, failed, pulled himself back up and has dominated the business world. More importantly he is in touch with his spiritual self and family. His life and experiences are the epitome of American values, as he so eloquently lays out the freedoms that we have in America to find and pursue all of these things. Without a doubt a must read for anyone who believes in America and what we can strive to be. Well done Mr. Master’s.
Dunatos –
“Authentic Transformation – American Freedoms!”
If you read this book, you will be educated and inspired in your own life. I love the five Freedoms that Ali Master articulates in his new book. I know I have taken them for granted, and this book made me grateful again. In a world of bad news, we need some good news. We need to be reminded of those who overcome and succeed – in spite of huge obstacles. The themes in this book could not be more relevant: immigration, government, business, family, faith, and of course, freedom. This book will pull you in and keep you engrossed from the beginning to the end. It is a page-turner!
Tracey S. –
“A page-turner with many surprises”
This book is well-written and easy to read. I am the same age as the author and really got a good laugh from all the generational references. Although I disagree with the author’s perspective in the last couple of chapters on the linkages of Christianity to the founding of this country and some of his views on immigration and asylum seekers, I read it with an open mind and enjoyed it very much. Well done. (Note: This book should probably be categorized as a religious journey first, rather than an immigrant’s story. That theme is strongest.)
Rohit Gulhati –
“Fantastic read for adults and teenagers alike”
An uplifting, relatable and eye-opening book. The author’s diverse experiences – both positive and negative – provide an honest and informative look into the challenges of adulthood and assimilation from the perspective of an immigrant. Although a relatively quick read, you can learn a lot about the differences between the Pakistani and American culture and what it takes to build healthy relationships with people on both sides. The author’s perspective on the benefits of American system of government is also much needed in these extremely polarized times. Highly recommended for all audiences with an open mind.
James H. Pence –
“Powerful, moving story!”
In the interest of full disclosure, I am a freelance editor and it was my privilege to serve as editor for “Beyond the Golden Door.” I have known Ali for many years, but had only heard small bits of his story. As I worked with Ali to bring this book to publication, I was captivated by his story. “Beyond the Golden Door” is a powerful story and compelling reading. It will give you a perspective on America and the proverbial “American Dream” that is, sadly, disappearing in our country’s conflict-filled atmosphere.
Ronald Krupa –
“Powerful book and incredible journey”
Do you take all of the freedoms and liberties we have in this country for granted? Have you become disenchanted with living in the greatest country given all the negative rhetoric? Ali does a wonderful job of highlighting things that many who grew up in the USA forget makes this place special. His journey from Pakistan, discovery of the freedoms in the US, and conversion from Islam to Christianity are moving. This is a book that is easy to read that I had trouble putting down.
CJ Vinson –
“A moving and inspiring read”
This book is a very easy read, one with great life lessons that can be gleaned through every new chapter and story told by Ali in his journey to find his place in America. All people can relate to the joys and pain he has experienced, regardless of your background or nationality. A wonderful book written at such an appropriate time.
Jan Shea –
“Refreshing reminder of truth”
I didn’t know what to expect when I started reading Ali’s story, but I’m better for having entered the pages of his life’s journey. Thank you for your honest vulnerability you have encouraged me to embrace my own.
Grab a cup of coffee and settle in, because once you begin reading you won’t want to put this one down!
Karyn Wright –
“Great reminder of our freedoms that should not be taken for granted”
Ali’s book is a great reminder, particularly in today’s environment, of the freedoms we have here in the US that should never be taken for granted. The author has a great voice, reflecting on his journey to American and ultimately citizenship and putting into perspective for his reader the challenges that he faced. Highly recommended.
Amanda N –
“Faith and freedom found in a country of second chances”
Mr.Ali’s story is a beautiful testimony to the freedom and restoration he found in Christ, and the untapped potential he experienced in the freedoms of America…the land of second chances.
Peter Corwin & Janet Corwin –
“A captivating read”
Author takes the reader on a step by step history of his new live in America.
Naqi Shariff –
“Beautiful, Brave, Relevant”
Ali has penned beautifully through his personal life experiences value of ‘Freedom’. Sometimes we take freedom for granted. Ali’s nudge to all of us in safeguarding the freedom in America is so important and relevant … specially in today’s time… loved reading the book!
Rikki D. –
“Great read!”
Enjoyed this book – very readable! Ali shares his story in such a relatable way with a biblical perspective that is portrayed so lovingly. This story serves as a great reminder for our nation.
John W Cullins –
“Inspirational!”
I really enjoyed this book. I found it thoughtful, insightful and inspiring. There is much to be learned from Ali’s immigration journey and his faith journey. I highly recommend Beyond the Golden Door.
Stephan Mardyks –
“Going Above & Beyond with the Golden Door”
This is truly a captivating book and an inspiring journey about faith, work, and life. Ali Master is sharing in his book so much wisdom so highly needed in today’s world.
Glenda Lindsay –
“Seeking freedom and truth”
Absolutely loved this book. The candor, humor,and honesty,touched my heart and makes you think of all the blessings we take for granted. Thanks for writing!
jim t –
“Well worth the read!”
Great read! Take the time to appreciate what you have. Great perspective and witness to America and the world in general.
deborah shokunbi –
“American life well captured”
James Wartian –
“An honest 3-D story of life in the Muslim and the American world”
It is rare that I read a book like this that I cannot put down. Having known Ali while I lived in Dallas, this book is so clearly written in his voice. It is a labor of love. More importantly, it is deeply authentic. This is the person I knew at church who loved God and loved people. It is wonderful how this book really captures who he is and the God and the country he loves.
The book is broken up into a few sections, one of which focuses on 5 freedoms. Normally this would feel contrived, but in this book, it works. I appreciated Ali’s perspective on the freedoms we have that we can too easily take for granted.
Ali also does a masterful job of painting a picture of life in Pakistan and in America. He avoids over-generalizations and instead leans into describing what he has experienced. What is unusual is he refrains from much editorializing. He states the facts and might make a comment, but this is not a book that blindly builds up one side or tears down the other. I love the balance and the three-dimensional picture he paints.
Finally, this book is about his spiritual journey. But don’t let that put you off! This book clearly and honestly shares his journey from being a Muslim to being a Christian and does it in a way that refrains from the typical bashing of the religion he has left. If you are looking for an in-depth book about what Islam teaches, look elsewhere. But if you are wanting to read an honest story of how one person discovered a relationship with Christ and a spiritual freedom that was not available in Islam, prepare to be inspired. The point of this book is to honestly share his faith, yet he does so without beating the reader over the head with his beliefs. I think that just makes it stronger.
Bottom line, this is an incredible book. When I saw a post from Ali on Facebook about this book, I immediately went to Amazon and bought it for my Kindle. My only disappointment is in the hours of sleep I lost when I could not put it down! This is a must-read in my opinion.
Hack –
“Honest, inspiring and relevant”
Ali shares his experience moving between two completely different worlds and how that migration shaped his character and his life. While his overall message is optimistic, he does not hide the grim realities of his journey from the reader. For example, his history includes examples of racism, prejudice, and difficulties in adjusting to a new culture, a new language, and separation from family and friends. By sharing his love of America and the blessings he experienced in immigrating to this country within the context of his personal hardships, Ali demonstrates a postiive but realistic American dream. As a result, his story his relateable to all audiences. Ali’s story demonstrates a positive message that while America isn’t perfect, it has a lot to offer.
With regards to the writing style, the book is an easy and enjoyable read. The story jumps between Ali’s present and his past to juxtapose the conditions of his new life and the life he left in Pakistan. His use of this style is easy to follow and helps the reader understand that life in Pakistan has desirable attributes and life in America has struggles but that overall his journey to American and his willingness to partake of the American dream was a positve experience that blessed his life and the life of his family. I recommend this book to anyone who is willing to to view the world from the eyes of an immigrant seeking a better life. This perspective is not new but is especially relevant today.
Ileana J. –
“I could almost not put this book down until I finished it all”
This book is a masterpiece. Reading the book is like watching a captivating movie that keeps you tied to your seat as you don’t want to miss any detail. I have to say is so captivating, that it just took me two days to finish it, as I read it during the day, before I went to sleep and during the night while finding a way to go to sleep again. Its full of detail and makes you feel like you are there watching all that unravels. All the vivid narrative will make you laugh and cry, you got to believe that it will keep you interested from start to finish. I felt so identified with Ali as I faced related challenges when coming to live to the United States, the cultural clash, the language barriers, different food, different points of view, discrimination and at the end of the day how you miss the country you left behind because there you felt like you belong somewhere. Also is a great eye opener for Americans who take for granted the liberty and advantages they are used to since they are born. It also describes how it feels to break with the religious beliefs that you were raised on and how challenging this is. For us who have gone through something similar as well, will bring tears to your eyes. For those who have not, his testimony will move you as his testimony is powerful. Great book!
Amazon Customer –
“Not just a life story, but educational and suspenseful in a way that you need to wintess yourself.”
Ali Master did a phenomenal job drawing the reader in. Throughout the entire book, from chapter to chapter, you will always find yourself asking yourself whats next? I downloaded the book via the Book store on the iPhone, and I found myself slowly pulling the phone closer and closer as Ali takes you on a adventure that is constantly filled of meaningful, educational and inspiring events. I did not feel as if someone was telling me a story, I felt like I was in the story standing right next to Ali. In times of joy, I felt happy and when things were getting difficult for Ali, I was becoming empathetic. What I found most enjoyable is that, even though he was telling the story in chronological order, he continued to go back to a point in his life that perfectly pertained to the current or upcoming event in the book. Clearly this was done by no accident and was well thought out! Also, what I also caught myself doing is bookmarking pages in the book so I can go back and reflect on as reading through that portion once was just not enough. Thank you, Ali for sharing your life story! I would encourage the youth, teenagers and all adults to take the time to read this book.
Robert Neisen –
“Incredible thought-provoking book that reminds us of God’s grace and His divine plan for our lives”
I picked this book up approximately 8 hours ago and could not put it down until I had finished it. As someone who was born in Texas who has enjoyed all of the liberties that growing up in the US has to offer, I was quickly drawn into the clarity in which the author describes his immigration to the US, his path to God’s unending grace, and his ability to knit together the details of the road that he has travelled which so clearly reflect God’s divine plan for his life. This book embodies the scripture in Romans 8:28. “We know all things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to his purpose.” This book is a most important read, given the current times that we are experiencing in our country today. We take for granted our ability in America to live freely, to try and fail (then try again), and to worship the Creator God. This book sparks a deep sense of thankfulness for the American culture, and a reminder to never take our freedoms for granted.
Sandra Wells –
“Captivating and Inspiring – An Absolute Must Read!”
From the very first page, I couldn’t put this book down! The author has a great writing style that is engaging, humorous and concise. While entertaining, it is also hard-hitting. We live in the greatest country in the world and we all take so many of our freedoms for granted. It was a fresh reminder of what makes this country great. I was in awe of the author’s journey to Christianity and had to pause and reflect on what they really meant when it came to the relationship with his family. I loved seeing God’s hand throughout the pivotal twists and turns and the incredible ways in which the dots connected. And, I was equally in awe of the author’s wife who was steadfast in her faith at such a young age. This book is an fresh reminder to be more inquisitive of other’s journey, to recognize that although not perfect, we have incredible freedoms in this great country, and that the American Dream is alive and well. Read the book — you will not be disappointed and most certainly will be inspired!
Dan Thibault –
“Great Book!”
I read this book not knowing what to expect. Once I started reading, it was hard to put down, so i read it in 3 sittings. The book is laid out very well, easy to read, and does a great job moving forward through the author’s life will also flashing back to earlier days. Interesting to experience what life was like in Pakistan and his conversion to Christianity. The book describes living The American Dream, including coming to a completely foreign country, learning the language, assimilating into American society, failures and lessons learned, challenges, and successes. It illustrates many aspects of our society that we may take for granted and while our country is not perfect, we are always evolving and advancing so we can remain the best country in the world in which to live. The timing is perfect as many in our country want to abandon some of the principles which make this country great. A good firsthand account that demonstrates how the American Dream can be achieved.
Sharon C. Friedberg –
“A Real Page-Turner”
I usually listen to books on Audible as I find myself too busy to actually sit down and read. However, after Hearing Ali Master speak, I bought the hard copy and sat down to read. (instead of my Covid based Netflix binging) I finished half the book in one sitting and completed the remainder a few days later. It is hard to put down as it is rich with information, drama, and humor. I love his style of writing going back and forth in time not to confuse but as appropriate to the story line. From his discovery of his birth parents to the break ups with Judy, his conversion to Christianity and the finale in the empty plane, this story never disappoints. I can see this translating beautifully to the big screen
Mona Lloyd –
“Eye Opener”
I grew up on a small farm in the Midwest and thought I knew the world pretty well. Wrong. Moved to the big city and have had a 30 year career in the financial industry, thinking my view on the world keen. Wrong again. I’ve traveled quite extensively throughout Europe and the Middle East and have observed many cultures and thought my perspective was “cultured.” Still wrong. Being an onlooker is not the same as seeing inside the mind of those you’re looking upon. This book is an adventure inside the thoughts and heart of a unique Author. If you take this adventure with Ali Master, it will clean out some caverns in your own mind. It will cause you to explode in gratitude if you’re an American and it will help you navigate if you’ve never been here. Through humor and pain, the wordsmithing within these pages makes this a fun and enjoyable read.
Joerg Schmitz –
“An important story…”
Ali shares with us the very personal, inner journey of leaving one world and making his way to a heart-felt, albeit hard-wrung, commitment to his new world. His is an example of how engaging with diversity can transform us if we accept the implicit invitation to transcend the limitations of our own cultural conditioning. Ali welcomed this invitation and embraced the unsettling journey it brought on—challenging and shedding the certainties, conventions, and orthodoxies of his old world. It led him to make courageous and deliberate choices about aspects of life most of us never have to make. Most importantly, it is his sharing with us and taking ownership of the freedoms to fail, love, seek, believe, build, and self-govern that he creates his golden door. Ali invites us to celebrate with him, and to cherish and safeguard the essential qualities and conditions that enable everyone to thrive. … thank you for sharing your story and enabling all of us to learn from it!
Marty Arbuckle –
“Inspiring and enlightening!”
I found this book to be both fascinating and inspiring. Like many who grew up in middle America in a nearly homogenous society, I’ve taken a lot of our freedoms for granted. Ali’s story has caused me to reevaluate and appreciate them to a much greater degree. As a Christian I’ve sometimes imagined what it must be like to experience life in a Muslim culture, but I’ve always had to do so with limited insight. Ali paints a vivid picture that has allowed me to look through his eyes to view the daily lives of people in a place I’ve never been. This has made them more real to me, and therefore truly care more deeply than I could without the insider’s perspective. The book is a quick read, and while funny, is serious in the right places. I particularly enjoy the author’s candor, introspection, and humility throughout.
Judith Garner –
“Compelling, humorous, timely and inspiring story about an immigrant’s journey to become American”
Ali Master has written an incredibly compelling narrative about his journey from his home in Pakistan to the larger-than-life state of Texas, weaving together a tale of his fears, challenges, struggles to overcome obstacles, and, ultimately, his successful integration into American society. He does not hesitate to share deeply personal and heartbreaking events in his past as well as uplifting anecdotes about the wonderful people he met and help he received along the way that provided him with valuable insights and allowed him to embrace a “new and improved” version of himself with increased inner strength and knowledge. His humorous tales of his younger and carefree self and how certain mistakes helped him become the accomplished and successful man he is today will resonate with readers. His story is inspiring and a page-turner. I highly recommend this book!
PJG –
“Timely”
I agree with the previous reviewer – very easy read and nicely structured via specific themes that also evolve chronologically. There are many poignant messages the Author communicates. The most prominent one being about the opportunities that America provides to anyone who is willing to work hard. However, the other messages are not small. In telling of his story, the Author talks about grappling with faith, love, racism, abuse and how he chose to handle each situation. For the reader, each are learning moments. In today’s world where the country seems divided in so many ways, this read is timely and should remind us the diversity that built America and how lucky we are living in a country that has so much to offer.
JPC –
“A very personal story. For me, ‘…a fresh reminder of the amazing nation they (we) have..'”
Ali Master’s Beyond the Golden Door truly does offer an opportunity for Seeing the American Dream through an Immigrant’s Eyes. I must admit to simply accepting the Freedom to Fail, to Love, of Religion, to Build and to Self-Govern as a part of normal life, which of course, it isn’t in so many other parts of this world. The author writes in a way that allowed me to place myself in his shoes, walk his story in my own mind, and understand his experiences from a different perspective. But, unlike a harsh slap-in-the-face wakeup call story, the book tells a very revealing, personal saga of his growth as a person, a man and a believer that will have a lasting impact. Highly recommended.
B. Cobb –
“Master courageously shared his personal journey”
It takes a massive amount of courage to make oneself as vulnerable as Ali has made himself through the process of telling and sharing his life story to date. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about his deeply personal religious journey, his immigration process, his personal growth and development from a student to an adult raising a family and pursuing his career, including the various adversities he experienced. Reading his book is just like sitting down to have a deep, far-ranging, in-depth, extended conversation with Ali. I feel exceptionally fortunate to know him and wish that as many of his readers as possible also get the opportunity to meet and experience how courageous, kind, and genuine of a person he is.
Mark Rountree –
“This book will renew your gratitude for our country and invite you to a life-changing faith.”
I found this book to be fascinating, fast-paced and faith-filled. Ali’s life story- from his growing up years in a Muslim country, to his journey to freedom, a family of his own and great success in the U.S., to the ultimate freedom he found through his faith in Christ- rekindles a sense of gratitude and inspires renewed hope in midst of our turbulent, uncertain times. As importantly, Ali’s story of his deep faith in Jesus Christ and his willingness to follow His path and plan, reminds us that God is able “to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think.” I can’t think of a better summer read than Beyond the Golden Door.