Stories have always been a necessary means of escape, bringing much needed moments of peace. And it’s safe to say that 2020 has been pretty rough…
“It’s a great blessing if one can lose all sense of time, all worries, if only for a short time, in a book.”
Nella Last
As we approach the end of the year, we thought we would look back at just some of the amazing titles by Muslim authors and illustrators that so-happened to publish this year.
THE EMPIRE OF GOLD
(The Daevabad Trilogy, #3)
by S.A. Chakraborty
The much-anticipated finale to the stunning Daevabad trilogy published this year. Prepare to be taken on an adventure like no other, and maybe have your hearts broken…
A SKY BEYOND THE STORM
(An Ember in the Ashes #4)
by Sabaa Tahir
Another undeniable favourite fantasy series is coming to a conclusion. Sob. We’ve been waiting for this finale with bated breath!
PLANET OMAR: UNEXPECTED SUPER SPY
by Zanib Mian and illustrated by Nasaya Mafaridik
This middle-grade series is full of humour, love and funky doodles. We’re so glad that this series exists – and the Muslim representation it provides through the lens of a young Muslim boy – and highly recommend it as a heart-warming and hilarious read for adults and kids alike.
YES, NO, MAYBE SO
by Aisha Saeed and Becky Albertalli
Yes? No? Maybe so? Aisha Saeed and Becky Albertalli (author of Simon vs the Homosapiens Agenda) team up to bring us the ultimate romance, exploring cross-cultural relationships, politics and activism. And all the cutesy romance you could ask for.
MUSLIM WOMEN ARE EVERYTHING
by Seema Yasmin and Fahmida Azim
A full-colour illustrated collection of stories about amazing Muslim women throughout history. Inspiring and stereotype-shattering.
MY MONSTER AND ME
by Nadiya Hussain and illustrated by Ella Bailey
The talented Nadiya Hussain addresses dealing with anxiety in the form of a ‘worry monster’ in this wonderfully illustrated picture book.
MY STORY: NOOR-UN-NISSA INAYAT KHAN
by Sufiya Ahmed
A thrilling historical tale exploring the story of British Indian WWII secret spy and heroine, Noor-un-Nissa Inayat Khan.
AMAZING MUSLIMS WHO CHANGED THE WORLD
by Burhana Islam
A collection of stories about amazing Muslims throughout across the globe and throughout history. Featuring full-colour illustrations throughout, by six talented Muslim illustrators.
These are just a few of the fantastic titles published this year by Muslim authors. Let’s hope that 2021 brings a bit more good news and lots more brilliant books with Muslim representation, written and illustrated by Muslim creatives.
In the meantime, we hope this list has offered you a new title or two to add to your TBR!
Muslim Voices in Publishing 