Posted by CBethM on March 5, 2025 in Author Posts, Book Lists |
As we observe the holy month of Ramadan and celebrate Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, it’s the perfect time to highlight the incredible stories of Muslim women who have defied expectations, shattered barriers, and changed the world!
These trailblazers have challenged stereotypes, redefined narratives, and paved the way for future generations, embodying the strength, perseverance, and generosity that both Ramadan and Women’s History Month celebrate. Their stories show how faith and ambition go hand in hand, proving that Muslim women have always been forces of change.
From picture books to memoirs, these books offer insight, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on history, identity, and empowerment. I hope these powerful true stories uplift and inspire you. If there are any books I’ve missed, please feel free to share your recommendations in the comments.
Picture Books:
Game Changers: Stories of Hijabi Athletes from around the World by Charlene Smith and Natalya Tariq
Meet 13 trailblazing hijabi athletes who are breaking barriers in sports. Many were the first to compete in their sport while wearing the hijab, challenging cultural norms and fighting to change discriminatory rules. From Egyptian beach volleyball player Doaa Elghobashy to Syrian American runner Rahaf Khatib, their inspiring stories prove that Muslim girls don’t have to choose between their faith and their dreams. Game Changersempowers the next generation to redefine what’s possible.
Umm Kulthum: The Star of the East by Rhonda Roumani and Ahmed Abdelmohsen
Umm Kulthum was an iconic Arab singer whose powerful voice captivated audiences for over five decades, earning admiration from legends like Bob Dylan and Maria Callas. Born to a poor Egyptian family, she defied social norms, disguised herself as a boy to perform, and rose to fame through sheer talent and determination. In Cairo, she mastered her craft, collaborating with top poets and musicians. Known as The Star of the East, her legacy remains a symbol of cultural pride.
One Wish: Fatima al-Fihri and the World’s Oldest University by M. O. Yuksel and Mariam Quraishi
This inspiring true story celebrates the power of education, resilience, and the impact one person can make. In 9th-century Fez, Morocco, Fatima al-Fihri founded the world’s oldest continuously operating university, turning her lifelong dream into reality through perseverance, faith, and determination. For over a thousand years, her school has welcomed scholars from around the world, and it continues to do so today! Her extraordinary legacy reminds us of the importance of never giving up on our dreams and how we all have the power to create lasting change.
Yasmeen Lari, Green Architect: The True Story of Pakistan’s First Woman Architect by Marzieh Abbas, and Hoda Hadadi
This fascinating biography tells the story of Yasmeen Lari, Pakistan’s first female architect and humanitarian. After natural disasters hit, she created affordable, sustainable homes using a mix of traditional materials and modern design. Lari’s journey, from preserving historic buildings to helping communities rebuild after earthquakes and floods, shows how one person’s passion can make a huge difference. With beautiful illustrations, the story highlights her incredible work and lasting impact on architecture and the people she served.
Lion on the Inside by Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir, Judith Henderson, and Katherine Ahmed
Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir was born to play basketball, but when a referee says she can’t play while wearing her hijab, she faces a difficult choice. Supported by her teammates and fans, Bilqis becomes the all-time leading scorer in Massachusetts and the first woman to play in a hijab in the NCAA. When forced to give up her professional career due to the same rule, she fights for change. This powerful true story celebrates her journey and impact, blending basketball, activism, and courage.
Milloo’s Mind: The Story of Maryam Faruqi, Trailblazer for Women’s Education by Reem Faruqi and Hoda Hadadi
This uplifting picture book biography tells the story of Maryam Faruqi, founder of the Happy Home Schools, who provided education to thousands of girls in Pakistan when schooling for girls was discouraged. Despite obstacles, Milloo pursued her dreams, becoming a teacher and opening schools across Karachi. Written by her granddaughter, Reem Faruqi, this beautifully illustrated book celebrates her determination and legacy.
Mama in Congress: Rashida Tlaib’s Journey to Washington by Rashida Tlaib, Miranda Paul, Adam Tlaib, and Olivia Aserr
This empowering picture book tells the story of Rashida Tlaib, one of the first Muslim women elected to Congress, and her journey from growing up in Detroit to becoming a trailblazing activist and politician. Through the eyes of her children, readers learn about elections, government, and breaking barriers in pursuit of justice. Tlaib’s story encourages kids to believe in their ability to make a difference and follow their dreams, while highlighting the importance of family and community.
The World Is Not a Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid by Jeanette Winter
This nonfiction picture book introduces Zaha Hadid, the groundbreaking architect who overcame adversity to shape the world with her designs. Growing up in Baghdad, Hadid dreamed of creating cities, and after studying in London, she started her own studio. Despite facing challenges as a Muslim woman, her determination led to stunning buildings worldwide, showcasing her incredible legacy.
Muslim Girls Rise: Inspirational Champions of Our Time by Saira Mir and Aaliya Jaleel
Discover the true stories of nineteen unstoppable Muslim women of the twenty-first century who have defied obstacles to make history. From the culinary arts and fashion to science, sports, and activism, these women have broken barriers in various fields. Through short biographies and vibrant illustrations, young readers will discover how these trailblazing women overcame challenges to achieve their dreams and become powerful leaders, offering fresh role models and showing the incredible impact of Muslim women today.
Yusra Swims by Julie Abery and Sally Deng
This inspiring true story follows Yusra Mardini, a young swimmer from Damascus with dreams of competing in the Olympics. When war forces her to flee Syria, she courageously saves others by swimming alongside a sinking boat in the Aegean Sea. The book vividly portrays her remarkable journey, highlighting her resilience and determination as she reaches Germany and fulfills her Olympic dream.
The Librarian of Basra: A True Story from Iraq by Jeanette Winters
Alia Muhammad Baker’s library in Basra, Iraq, has been a beloved space for book lovers for fourteen years. But when war arrives, Alia fears the library, and its 30,000 books, will be lost forever. This powerful true story follows her determination to save her community’s priceless collection, showing how, even in the darkest times, the love of books and literature can bring people together and give them hope.
Malala’s Magic Pencil by Malala Yousafzai, and Kerascoët
As a child in Pakistan, Malala wished for a magic pencil to make the world a better place. But as she grew older, she realized there were bigger things to wish for. Despite never finding a magic pencil, Malala learned that she could work hard every day to make her dreams come true. This beautifully illustrated book inspires young readers to create change and hold onto hope.
MG/YA:
Proud (Young Readers Edition): Living My American Dream by Ibtihaj Muhammad
Ibtihaj Muhammad made history as the first American to compete in the Olympics wearing a hijab and as the first Muslim American woman to win a medal. Growing up in suburban New Jersey, Ibtihaj faced challenges as an African American Muslim and stood out in the predominantly white world of fencing. Despite prejudice, she persevered, rising above obstacles to achieve her dreams. This powerful story of faith, family, and resilience inspires readers to overcome adversity and stay true to themselves.
We’re in This Together: A Young Readers Edition of We Are Not Here to Be Bystanders by Linda Sarsour
In this empowering book, Linda Sarsour, co-organizer of the Women’s March, shares her inspiring journey from a young girl in Brooklyn to a fearless activist. On January 21, 2017, she stood before a crowd of over 470,000 people to fight for women’s rights. In this memoir, Linda recounts how her upbringing as a Palestinian Muslim woman shaped her activism, and how she found her voice to stand up for others in one of the largest protests in US history.
M.O. Yuksel is an award-winning author of several children’s books, including In My Mosque, One Wish: Fatima al-Fihri and the World’s Oldest University, Ramadan Kareem, and Sami’s Special Gift: An Eid al-Adha Story. Her latest book, The Prince of Stars: Ulugh Beg’s Quest to Map the Stars and Seasons, explores the remarkable life of a 15th-century astronomer. Her goal is to craft the stories she longed for as a child, ones that inspire, uplift, and celebrate the rich diversity of our world. Learn more at www.moyuksel.com.
English (US) · 