Muslim Voices in Literature
Muslim Voices in literature for children fulfilled the need to shift focus towards various narratives in an era that was afflicted by a lack of accurate depiction of Muslims.
During the “Multitudes: The Power of Authentic & Diverse Representation in Muslim Stories” session at the 2024 Annual Conference of the American Library Association, a group of Muslim authors and educators discussed the reasons behind choices to write about a variety of experiences that occur within the context of unpleasant Islamic conditions.
Khadijah VanBrakle, Huda Al-Marashi, and Natasha Khan Kazi, the writers of 9 TO 5 TALES OF THE WORKING GIRL, were present at the event. Additionally, Diana Ma, the author of EXTRAORDINARY: NAOMI ~ MANY LIVES AHEAD, was also there. Further volumes are scheduled to be published in the near future. Helaire Hamilton Mitchell, who works at the Redondo Beach Public Library, was the moderator for this panel discussion.
The Importance of Representation of Muslim Voices
Muslim authors invariably enjoy showing themselves in stories of their roots and ground the characters as something they can identify with each time they are exposed to Western culture. From this perspective, Writing Beirut in Tgging Freedom under the Syrian civil war when it is still too early to write so openly due to all of these recent conflicts between authors.
For Khadijah VanBrakle, this looks like her daughter being told that she cannot be both Black and Muslim, an interaction so natural it persists in driving home the importance of what she does every day. VanBrakle’s book, Fatima Tate Takes the Cake, features a Muslim teenager, a subject about which she is both proud and unapologetic, but it’s for all teenagers.
Facing Challenges in Today’s Climate for Muslim Voices
Muslim writers often try to show up with stories which not only present their roots but also provide their kids with a base to understand their ancestor’s lifestyle while living in Western culture. In this perspective, the author of Tgging Freedom Rhonda Roumani, which portrait the Syrian civil war during when many authors do not openly share their opinions due to recent conflicts
She pointed out the disparity in support, mentioning that while organizations have rallied for issues like Ukraine, they’ve been less vocal for Muslim-related topics.
"When there is conflict, the easiest thing to do is to silence the weakest group in the room,"
Diana Ma, whose upcoming book The Unbeatable Lily Hong features a Chinese Muslim protagonist, added that censorship is another significant issue. While no one has cancelled her talks on happier topics, she noted that some books are being censored before they even hit the shelves.
How Librarians Can Support Muslim Voices
Librarians ensure Muslim voices are heard and represented in children’s literature. Author M.O. Yuksel suggested that Muslim stories should not be confined to “diversity” units. Yuksel’s book, One Wish, tells the story of Fatima Al-Fihri, founder of the world’s oldest university, providing a historical perspective that can enrich any educational setting. Helaire Hamilton Mitchell, the event’s moderator, expressed her commitment to creating an inclusive environment in her library :
"These books help make sure that I can make a place for these kids that come into my library and show them that I may not understand everything you’re going through or know your background. But I do try to learn, and here’s where you can learn more about yourself and your culture,”
Food and Culture as Bridges for Muslim Voices
Food has also proven to be a robust connector in portraying Muslim experiences. Sarah Mughal Rana, author of the upcoming Hope Ablaze, shared how her mother used food to connect with their predominantly white community after 9/11. Her book incorporates these themes, with readers often reaching out to share how they’ve sought Pakistani restaurants after reading. This demonstrates how literature can foster curiosity and understanding, breaking down cultural barriers.
A Call for Joy and Authenticity for Muslim Voices
The panellists underscored the necessity of joy in Muslim stories. Natasha Khan Kazi, whose book Moon’s Ramadan presents Ramadan in a joyful light, expressed her desire for her children to see themselves positively and affirmatively. This sentiment resonates with all the panelists who strive to create literature that reflects and celebrates the diversity within the Muslim community. These authors’ works open doors to more inclusive narratives, encouraging a broader understanding of Muslim identities and experiences. As librarians and educators support these stories, they help ensure that every child can see themselves reflected in the books they read.
