Leyla
Leyla
Leyla was a freshman at the Holton-Arms School in Bethesda, MD where she wrote I am the Night Sky. She enjoys playing soccer, biking, writing, and ceramics. She is an active member of the Islamic Community Center of Potomac.
As the only Muslim in her primarily white freshman class, it can be hard to step up or stand out, for fear that her actions may be used to generalize all other Muslims. Joining this book project with NWMI and Shout Mouse really helped Leyla to activate her voice as a young American Muslim.
“Sharing my story is my own small way of defying the stereotypes I face everyday. I hope that my writing inspires anyone trying to find their own voice, and that it helps start conversations that are much overdue.”
BOOKS BY LEYLA
by the teen artists and writers of Next Wave Muslim Initiative
With a foreword by award-winning author Hena Khan
“Captivating and uplifting.” — Starred review in Kirkus Reviews + named a Best Book of 2019
“Get it soon… It would be difficult to ignore or forget these voices.” — Rich in Color Reviews
Included on the “2020 Rise: A Feminist Book Project List for Ages 0-18”
During an era characterized by both hijabi fashion models and enduring post-9/11 stereotypes, ten Muslim American teenagers came together to explore what it means to be young and Muslim in America today. These teens represent the tremendous diversity within the American Muslim community, and their book, like them, contains multitudes. Bilal writes about being a Muslim rocker. Noor reflects about speaking in multiple tongues. Samaa creates her own cartoon Kabob Squad. Ayah responds to online hate. Through poems, essays, artwork, and stories, these young people aim to show their true selves, to build connection, and to create more inclusive and welcoming communities for all.
ISBN: 978-1945434938
Age: 12+
Lexile: 830L
Page Count: 192
Published: 2019
