The publication of The Jewel of Medina, a historical novel with Islamic themes, written by Sherry Jones, has been placed on hold by its publisher Random House, although it was originally scheduled to be released in mid-August. Random House spokeswoman Carol Schneider announced that publication of the novel has been “postponed indefinitely” after receiving word that the book might “incite acts of violence by a small, radical segment.” Schneider went on to say, “We thought it was not a good time, with tensions running as high as they do, to publish this.” Jones has signed a termination agreement with Random House and has begun to shop the book elsewhere.